When it comes to sleep training your baby, there is a lot of information and opinions out there. This can make it very difficult for parents to decide if sleep training is the right choice for their baby and family.
In this blog post, I will discuss some of the basics of sleep training so that you can make an informed decision before you begin. I will also provide some tips to help make the process as smooth as possible.
So, whether you are considering sleep training or are in the middle of the process, read on for more information!
Should I keep a sleep and feeding log before I start sleep training my baby?
If you are considering sleep training your baby, you may wonder if you should keep your sleep and feeding logs before you start. Sleep training can be a bit of a process.
You want to have your data clear to make informed choices about feeding and sleeping. In addition, the more organized and clear you are, the more room bandwidth you will have for taking care of how you feel. It's important to have all the information you can before you begin.
A sleep and feeding log can be helpful in several ways. First, it can give you a sense of your baby's natural sleep patterns.
This can be helpful in terms of figuring out how long they typically sleep and when they're likely to wake up. Second, the log can help you track how well the sleep training is going. This way, you can see if any patterns are emerging in terms of how quickly your baby is adjusting to the new regime.
Ultimately, whether or not you keep a sleep and feeding log is up to you. I never begin sleep training without at least one to two weeks of a log.
A log or an APP can be helpful, however, sometimes, keeping one can make a parent feel pretty anxious. Your log does not have to be a PowerPoint presentation! Keep a sleep log that feels right for you.
Is my baby the right age and weight to begin sleep training?
Many parents wonder if their baby is the right age and weight to begin sleep training. Baby sleep training is a process of helping your baby learn to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night.
Here are a few things to remember when determining if your baby is ready for sleep training.
First, most experts recommend starting sleep training when your baby is at least 16 weeks old. This is because babies under 16 weeks old are still adjusting to life outside of the womb and may not be ready to sleep through the night.
They have an infant sleep pattern and have not yet solidified an adult sleep pattern.
Second, you'll want to ensure your baby is at least 12 pounds. This is because very small babies may need more frequent feedings during the night.
Consult your pediatrician if you're unsure whether your baby is ready for sleep training. They can help you determine if your baby is developmentally ready and offer guidance on how to get started.
Is there an age that is best to start sleep training?
There is no right or wrong answer regarding the best age to start sleep training your child. Some parents begin when their baby is 12-16 weeks old, while others wait much longer.
There are pros and cons to both approaches. Those who start sleep training early often find that their baby adjusts more quickly and easily. However, naps can be challenging if you begin before 16 weeks. I do not begin sleep training a baby until they have reached 16 weeks and at least 12 pounds.
Sleep training, when your baby is a bit older, may make the process more difficult. I feel the sweet spot is between 16 weeks and 7 months old. An older baby has completed more developmental milestones such as pulling, standing, or waking.
Babies who can do these incredible gross motor skills are more likely to stand in their crib during training. Ultimately, the best age to start sleep training is the age that works best for you and your family.
How should I prepare for sleep training?
Baby sleep training can be an intimidating topic for new parents. After all, teaching your baby to self-soothe and fall asleep on their own can feel like a big leap after you have spent the past several months doing everything for your baby.
It is a new concept to think that your baby can begin to learn to do things on their own, like sleeping. Sleep training doesn't have to be stressful. You can set yourself and your baby up for success with a little preparation and a positive mindset.
One of the most important things you can do is to choose the right method for your family. There are various sleep training methods available, so it's important to do some research and find one that will work for you.
Once you've selected a method, make sure to stick with it. Consistency is key when it comes to sleep training.
Another important consideration is timing. You'll want to start sleep training when your baby is at least 16 weeks old and is developmentally ready for it. If you start too early, your baby may be unable to self-soothe and become frustrated.
On the other hand, if you wait too long, your baby may develop bad habits that will be difficult to break.
Finally, make sure you're prepared mentally and emotionally for sleep training. Listening to your baby cry can be tough, but it's important to remember that this is temporary and ultimately in their best interest.
Crying does not produce sleep The crying comes from the frustration of your baby not knowing how to self-soothe yet. Sleep training is hard work, but it's worth it when you see your baby sleeping through the night.
My family is visiting; should I wait to sleep train my baby until they leave?
You’ve waited so long for your family to visit and see your new baby, and now they’re finally here! But you’re also wondering if you should wait to sleep train your baby until they leave.
On the one hand, you don’t want to upset your visitors with a crying baby. On the other hand, you’re eager to get some much-needed rest. So what should you do?
As difficult as it may be, starting sleep training while your family is NOT visiting is the best course of action. Sleep training is a personal choice. Often well-intentioned family members have opinions or can forget what it was like when they had children.
Sometimes there are cultural differences. Other times each side of the family has a conflicting opinion on what should be done and how to raise your baby. The most important thing to remember is that this baby is your new family.
You are the parent and get to choose what you feel is right for your baby and your family and that you are the parents.
There will be plenty more times like this, not just sleep training, when you will have to be grounded and strong in the face of others people's opinions. IT IS A GOOD TIME TO PRACTICE THAT SKILL! Visitors who are likely to understand the situation and will lend a helping hand when they are great!
Starting sleep training at a younger age will give you a chance to get started on establishing healthy sleep habits for your baby.
And lastly, it’s important to remember that sleep training is a process, so even if it takes a few days or weeks for your baby to adjust, eventually, everyone in the house will be getting sleep the rest they need.
Sleep training can be challenging for any parent, but it is important to remember that resources are available to help you through the process.
By taking the time to understand sleep training and preparing yourself before beginning, you can make the experience smoother for both you and your baby.
Remember to stay patient and consistent throughout the process, and if you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out for support. Congratulations on making this important step in your parenting journey!