Is This The Right Time To Sleep Train?

There are two things I can pretty much guarantee you when it comes to teaching your baby to sleep through the night.

‍
1. It’s going to be a challenge
2. It’s going to be completely worth it.

‍
Like many big decisions though, there are times that are ideal and times that are less so. Today, I’d like to offer some tips for deciding whether or not it’s the right time to take on this challenging, but very rewarding journey.

Are you going to be around? I don’t recommend taking on sleep training if you have less than 2 full weeks before leaving to go out of town for a weekend or on a full vacation. It’s also best to start on a weekend if you have a child in daycare and you work traditional Monday-Friday hours. An extra day off of work is also very helpful!

Is it the right time for your baby? Your baby should be old enough- 4 months+. And your baby should be healthy- not dealing with an ear infection or painful reflux that isn’t under control, etc.

Is your partner on board? It’s hard enough as it is, but if your partner is discouraging you from following the plan or isn’t following the plan when they are in charge of your child’s care, it will be near impossible. Consistency is key and it’s helpful when you can lean on your partner for support and tag-team throughout the process.

Are the symptoms of sleep deprivation starting to show? Are you starting to feel depressed, moody, forgetful, unmotivated, clumsy, or unfocused? Is your sex drive starting to wane? Have you noticed an increased appetite and carbohydrate cravings? These are all symptoms of sleep deprivation and they’re no laughing matter. Society tends to make light of the whole, “exhausted new parent” persona, but the more we learn about the health effects of sleep deprivation, the less of a joke it becomes. If you’re sleep-deprived or feel like you’re on the verge, now’s the time to take some action.

Are their accommodations ready? Does your child have their own sleep space ready to go? If your child is under 2.5 years old, have a standard crib with the mattress at the appropriate height ready to go. Make sure the space is completely dark, cool, and quiet. The sleeping arrangements and logistics can get tricky so I’m always here for custom recommendations for my client families!

Don’t wait for the “perfect moment”. There will ALWAYS be an excuse not to start. Little things will keep popping up now until your child’s graduation! So if it’s minor, then don’t let it stop you from taking the leap. Sleep training doesn’t get easier as time goes on.

So now that you know all that, if you feel like the time is right and you’re ready to get started, let’s get going! Message me and we can start putting together a plan for your baby right away.

‍

‍