Dear Sleep-deprived Parent,
If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re in the thick of sleepless nights, desperate Googles at 3 a.m., and maybe even a cup of tea that’s been reheated twice. I’ve been there too—it’s tough, isn’t it?
The good news? Sleep training might just be the lifeline you need to help both you and your baby get the rest you deserve. This post is here to walk you through when and how to start sleep training in a way that feels doable, and (hopefully) drama-free.
Oh, and if you want even more tips, and expert advice, be sure to check out my Spotify podcast episode: “Sleep Training: When and How to Start.”
What Exactly Is Sleep Training?
Let’s clear the air: sleep training isn’t about leaving your baby to cry for hours while you sit in another room feeling like the worst parent in the world. Nope, not at all.
Sleep training is simply helping your baby learn how to fall asleep on their own and stay asleep longer. Think of it like teaching them a life skill—just like walking or eating with a spoon. It takes time, patience, and some trial and error, but the rewards are so worth it.
When Should You Start Sleep Training?
Here’s the big question: when is the right time to start?
Most experts recommend waiting until your baby is around 4 to 6 months old. By this point, their little bodies are more mature and ready for longer stretches of sleep at night without needing constant feeds.
How Do You Know Your Baby’s Ready?
Look out for these signs:
- They can sleep for 4–6 hours at a stretch.
- Their night and day patterns are starting to make sense (yay for daylight awareness!).
- They’re showing self-soothing behaviours, like sucking their thumb.
But remember—every baby is different. If your instinct says, “Not yet,” listen to it. You know your baby better than anyone.
How to Start Sleep Training
Let’s keep this simple. Here are a few steps to get started:
1. Set Up a Cozy Bedtime Routine
Babies thrive on routines—it helps them feel safe. Create a calming sequence before bed: a warm bath, gentle baby massage, a bedtime story, or a sweet lullaby. Do the same thing every night so your baby knows sleep is coming.
2. Make the Sleep Space Dreamy
Dark, quiet, and cool—that’s the vibe you’re going for. Invest in blackout curtains and a white noise machine to help your baby feel snug and uninterrupted.
3. Choose a Sleep Training Method
Not every method works for every family, so pick one that feels right for you:
- Gentle Approach: Stay in the room, pat their back, and offer comfort while encouraging them to fall asleep on their own.
- Check-In Method: Put them down awake and check on them every few minutes if they cry.
- Gradual Retreat: Start by sitting near their crib and move farther away each night until they don’t need you to be there anymore.
4. Be Consistent, But Kind
Sleep training takes patience. Stick with your plan for a few days before making adjustments. And if one bad night happens (it will), don’t be hard on yourself—this is a marathon, not a sprint.
What If It’s Not Working?
First off, you’re not failing. Some common bumps in the road include:
- Teething or illness: These can mess with sleep progress. Take a break and try again when your baby is feeling better.
- Regression: Sleep regressions happen. Stay the course—it’s temporary.
- Guilt: If you’re struggling emotionally with the process, remind yourself that teaching your baby how to sleep is an act of love. Rested parents = happy parents.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Sleep training isn’t about perfection; it’s about finding what works for your family and being patient with the process. Trust yourself. Trust your baby. And trust that better sleep is coming.
Oh, and don’t forget—if you want more tips, personal stories, and step-by-step advice, listen to my podcast episode on Spotify: “Sleep Training: When and How to Start.”
Click here to listen now and subscribe for more real-talk postpartum tips.
Until next time, wishing you (and your baby) sweet dreams.
“Don’t go through mumming alone.”
FK Jesuyode
Founder, 5StarMums
