When can you start sleep training?
Navigating the early months of your baby's life can be a wonderful but exhausting journey, especially when it comes to sleep (or should I say the lack thereof).
Are you counting down the days for when you can start sleep training your baby to encourage better sleep for both of you.
WHAT IS SLEEP TRAINING?
Sleep training is a general term for your little one falling asleep independently without assistance from a caregiver. In the past, sleep training was synonymously associated with “Cry it Out” which has led to a lot of negative stigma surrounding sleep training. Thankfully though, there are many techniques you can choose between which range from very gentle “no-cry”, up to more traditional methods such as Spaced Soothing or Extinction.
Combined with using the full range of sleep training techniques, we at The Sleepy Little Bubs ensure we consider the full picture of your little one’s routine. This means we make sure we have a sleep conducive environment, good sleep hygiene, nutrition and feedings that support sleep and of course, a step by step plan to implement any changes - everything you need for success! It's so much more than just picking a method.
WHEN CAN WE START?
The earliest we recommend starting sleep training with your bub is at least 16 weeks adjusted (calculated from their due date). This is to ensure that your baby is developmentally ready and capable to make these changes. Despite being able to start working on independent sleep around 16 weeks, it can make it an easier adjustment on both parent and baby if you wait closer to the 20+ week mark as we find there is much more predictability and consistency with sleep at this age.
IS THERE ANYTHING YOU CAN DO TO IMPROVE SLEEP BEFORE SLEEP TRAINING?
Thankfully there are a few things you can implement before sleep training that have been shown to increase sleep quality. Some of these can be started as young as a few weeks old!
- Start the day at the same time each day to provide some consistency
- Start napping baby in the dark around 8 weeks of age
- White noise can be a helpful tool for newborn sleep and to encourage continuation of sleep through sleep cycles.
- Implement a consistent wind down routine before naps and bedtime
- Practice naps in the bassinet or cot as much as you’re comfortable with.
- If your bub wakes from a nap but is happy to hang in their bassinet – let them! This is great way to ensure they are comfortable in their sleep space.
- Wait a couple of minutes before responding to a wake. Babies are noisy and active sleepers, and sometimes we can be responsible for frequent wake ups because we are getting them up before they are truly awake!
- Follow tired cues or awake windows to ensure they stay well rested.
I'M READY....
Are you ready to start? For most 4-5 month old bubs starting on their sleep training journey, we recommend our Phone + Two Week Support Option
Our comprehensive two week support option provides a full custom sleep plan, a one hour zoom consultation to go over everything in detail and provide you the reasoning behind our recommendations, plus two weeks of daily WhatsApp support to ensure you feel supported throughout the whole process. You'll also gain access to our private facebook group to receive professional sleep advice from us even after your support period is completed.
- Is your baby over 6 months, our Phone + One Week Support Option may be a great choice!
- Are you not quite ready to start formal sleep training but would benefit from some help creating a routine and establishing some fundamentals? A 30 Minute Quick Chat is a great option.
- Our Newborn & 3-12 Month Bundle provides both sleep guides to help you navigate the first few months as well as transitioning into more independent sleep!