What is Sleep Training?
lbenjell • November 9, 2022
From the moment you shared the good news that you were expecting a baby, you likely received a lot of advice, like, “Oh, get ready! You’re never going to sleep again!”
While it’s true that being a parent can bring some exhaustion, especially in the early months, sleep is a need for everyone in your household. So taking the steps to improve your child’s sleep can bring benefits to everyone…including your little one.
During the 4th trimester, your baby needs a lot of assistance from you when it comes to their sleep. And because we’re often in survival mode, when we find something that works, we just keep doing it.
If you rock your baby and realize they fall asleep, then when you’re trying to get them back to sleep, you’re going to try rocking again.
Or if you notice your baby falls asleep while at the breast, when you’re exhausted and your baby needs to go to sleep, you’re going to try putting them on the breast again.
Babies are all about habits and routines, so these methods of falling asleep quickly become a habit – your child doesn’t know anything else. And while those methods of getting your little one to sleep may work for you, many families reach a point where they no longer work.
Maybe your baby has grown quite a bit and rocking them to sleep is hurting your back.
Or maybe your child needs to nurse every time they wake overnight, and you’ve reached the end of your rope.
When that happens – when what was once working is no longer sustainable – you may begin to wonder how else you can get your baby to fall asleep.
And that’s what sleep training is – it’s showing your baby how to sleep in other ways.
What is Sleep Training?
When you’re ready to change your baby’s sleep habits, it’s not like having a conversation with a 10 year old. You can’t say, “Okay, little one. I know you’re used to falling asleep while I rock you every night, but moving forward, you’re going to fall asleep in your crib. Got it?”
With young children, in order to see change, we have to show them with our actions what we want them to do.
If, for instance, your child is used to falling asleep at the breast, you’ll want to show them how to fall asleep in a new way. Maybe you decide that you’ll hold your baby until they fall asleep instead.
As simple as that may seem to us, that’s a big change for your child, and it will take them time to adjust to this new way of sleeping.
But sleep training is more than just a technique that you choose – it’s about ensuring all of the pieces are in place for your child to sleep well.
Before we go on, I think it’s also important to clarify what sleep training isn’t. Sleep training is a choice – it’s not for every family. And while the goal is to change the sleep habits of your child, we’re not doing so because we’re annoyed that the baby is waking up, so we’re just going to let them cry.
The truth is, if nobody is getting the sleep they need, the entire family can suffer. Mom may not feel like she’s the mom she wants to be. Both parents may not perform as well at work. And the baby, of course, also needs sleep to thrive.
The goal of sleep training is to shift the sleep habits so that they’re more conducive to sleep and the well-being of the entire family.
Factors to Consider Before Sleep Training
Before suddenly changing the way your child falls asleep, there are a few other factors to work on.
First, you want to make sure the environment is set up
to help them as much as possible. You want to ensure it’s a safe space, but also that it’s conducive to sleep – we want the room dark, cool, and with white noise.
You also want to look at your child’s schedule. Often, we wait for our babies to tell us they’re ready for sleep, but we can proactively do that and ensure they’re getting the sleep they need each day.
Establishing a solid bedtime routine
which prepares your child for bed and alerts them that sleep is coming is another step to lay a foundation for great sleep.
When you do all of these things in connection with changing how your child is falling to sleep, then we know their body and mind are ready for sleep, making the change in their habits an easier process.
Once you get all of these pieces in place, you may wonder, “But how do I actually help my child learn a new way of sleeping?”
What are the Different Approaches to Sleep Training?
After establishing the foundation for sleep, you can then move to helping your child learn a new habit of falling asleep.
There’s a wide range of options that you can choose from, and I like to think of it as a spectrum.
On one end of the spectrum, there are methods that require less parental involvement, like the extinction. With this approach, you’re giving your baby a new task and asking them to learn to adjust to that. Your support is to give them the space they need to master that new skill.
In the middle of the spectrum, there’s more parental involvement, where you’re doing check-ins. These checks can look different from family to family – maybe you’re walking in to check on your baby, or maybe you say one sentence to reassure your child that they’re okay. For others, they will go in to pat or pick up their little one.
And on the other end of the spectrum are methods that require more parental involvement, like staying in the room or gradually working your way to making your baby more independent.
The choice in your method isn’t necessarily what’s best for you, but what’s best for your child. In some cases, you may want to stay in the room and offer as much support to your child as possible, but it ends up being too much stimulation for your baby.
When I work 1:1 with families, I help the family pick their method by offering advice and strategies. But ultimately, the choice is each family’s.
And truthfully, the method itself doesn’t matter as much as doing the work to prepare the space, following your child’s schedule, and staying consistent with your approach. As long as you’re taking positive steps toward your goal, any change, regardless of how gradual it is, can get you there.
It’s important to know that giving your child the chance to practice this new skill is vital. Your child won’t learn it overnight – nothing is learned overnight! Every sleep period is a good opportunity to practice.
If you’re ready to make changes in your child’s sleep habits but want a guide through the process, I invite you to schedule a call with me
today.
Together, we’ll talk through your goals and your child’s temperament to find a method that works great for your family!
There’s something magical about a beach holiday — the sound of waves, salty air, and the promise of slow days in the sun. But let’s be honest: traveling to the beach with a baby isn’t exactly a vacation unless sleep is part of the equation. Whether you're heading to a resort, renting a seaside villa, or visiting family by the coast, here’s how to set your baby up for restful sleep — so everyone gets to enjoy that ocean breeze. Step 1: Know That Sleep Needs Don’t Take a Holiday Babies are creatures of habit. Their little bodies thrive on rhythm and predictability — even on vacation. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun or go with the flow! It just means that your baby’s sleep needs are still there, and the better prepared you are, the easier it will be to keep things (mostly) on track. Step 2: Your Beach Baby Sleep Packing List Here’s your ultimate baby sleep packing list for a beach trip, broken down by category: Sleep Environment Essentials : Portable travel crib or bassinet – Choose one your baby is already familiar with if possible. Fitted sheets – Bring 2-3 just in case of sand, spills or spit-up. Also bring a gently used one to remind baby of home as he/she adjusts to the new sleep environment. Portable blackout blinds – Beach homes and rentals often have light, sheer curtains. White noise machine or app – Helps block out unfamiliar sounds like waves (yes, they can be loud!) or street noise. Baby monitor (if you’ll be in a larger space or stepping outside during naps). For more on the ideal sleep environment, have a read here . Comfort + Routine : Lovey or comfort object (if age-appropriate and safe for sleep). Sleep sack – Choose a breathable, summer-weight one. Favorite bedtime book – Familiarity brings comfort. Pacifiers – Always bring extras! Nightlight – A soft, warm one if needed for feeds or changes during the night. Weather + Climate Considerations : Lightweight, breathable pajamas – Think cotton or bamboo Fan – If your rental lacks good airflow or AC Bonus Tip: Have a “Nap-on-the-Go” Kit **For beach days that cut into nap time: Clip-on stroller fan Stroller or baby carrier your baby can sleep in Portable white noise machine Extra sun hats + baby-safe sunscreen (for after 6 months old) Step 3: Keep the Routine (Even on the Coast) Try to mirror your bedtime routine as closely as you can. If you usually do bath → PJs → book → feed → sleep, stick with it — even if it’s a quick version. Babies love the predictability, and it helps signal that it’s time to wind down, even in a new environment. Also, aim for naps in a darkened room when possible, especially after a stimulating beach outing. And if one nap has to happen in the stroller under a palm tree? That’s totally okay. Just go back to the routine as soon as you can. Getting There: Travel Day Tips Time your departure around naps if possible Use familiar sleep items (like the sleep sack or pacifier) during flights or drives Offer extra feeds — travel is dehydrating, especially in hot weather Keep expectations flexible – sleep may not be perfect, and that’s fine Beach trips with a baby can be full of joyful memories and restful nights — as long as you plan for sleep. With the right gear and mindset, your little one can stay well-rested and content, giving you more time to soak up the sun (or at least drink your coffee while it’s still warm!). And remember: sleep doesn’t have to fall apart just because you’re away from home. If you ever feel stuck or unsure about how to adjust things before, during, or after a trip, I’m here to help you build a personalized plan that fits your family’s travel style. Book your discovery call here .
October is SIDS Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It’s a time to educate parents and caregivers on safe sleep practices that can reduce the risk and help protect our little ones.. At Hushabye, safety is at the heart of our brand. Our focus is on providing parents with safe and high-quality baby sleepwear, such as sleep bags, that offer a safer alternative to traditional blankets. What is a baby sleep bag? A baby sleep bag, also known as a wearable blanket or sleep sack, is a specially designed garment for infants and young children to wear during sleep. The primary purpose of a sleep bag is to keep the baby warm and comfortable, but it also serves as a safe and convenient alternative to traditional blankets and quilts in a crib or cot.
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, sleep often takes a back seat to other priorities. Yet, the importance of sleep for mental health cannot be overstated, especially for parents and their children. From infancy through adulthood, sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining emotional stability, cognitive function, and overall well-being. Let’s delve into the intricate relationship between sleep and mental health, exploring its significance for both parents and kids. Understanding Sleep: The Foundation of Mental Health Sleep is not merely a passive state of rest; it's a dynamic process that facilitates vital functions for physical and mental health. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories, processes emotions, and regulates various physiological processes. For children, especially infants and toddlers, sleep is paramount for healthy growth and development. It's during sleep that their brains form crucial neural connections, essential for learning and behavior regulation. Sleep and Parental Mental Health For parents, particularly those with young children, sleep deprivation is often a common occurrence. The demands of caring for a newborn or attending to the needs of a growing child can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to chronic sleep deficits. This chronic sleep deprivation can take a toll on parental mental health in several ways: Increased Stress and Anxiety : Sleep-deprived parents often experience heightened stress levels and anxiety. The constant fatigue and inability to get adequate rest can exacerbate feelings of overwhelm and tension. Impaired Cognitive Function : Lack of sleep impairs cognitive function, making it difficult for parents to concentrate, make decisions, and problem-solve effectively. This can further contribute to feelings of inadequacy and frustration. Mood Disorders : Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to an increased risk of mood disorders such as depression and irritability. Parents may find themselves more prone to mood swings and emotional instability, impacting their ability to nurture a positive environment for their children. Strained Relationships : Sleep deprivation can strain relationships, leading to conflicts and communication breakdowns between partners. This can create additional stressors, further exacerbating mental health challenges. Sleep and Child Mental Health Just as sleep is crucial for parental well-being, it's equally essential for children's mental health and development. Adequate sleep is associated with numerous benefits for children, including: Emotional Regulation : Sufficient sleep plays a vital role in emotional regulation, helping children manage their feelings and behaviors effectively. Children who get enough sleep are often more resilient to stress and less prone to mood disturbances. Cognitive Development : Sleep is essential for cognitive development in children, as it supports learning, memory consolidation, and problem-solving skills. A well-rested child is better equipped to succeed academically and socially. Behavioral Health : Sleep disturbances in children are closely linked to behavioral problems such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and aggression. Establishing healthy sleep habits early on can significantly reduce the risk of such issues. Reduced Risk of Mental Health Disorders : Research suggests that inadequate sleep during childhood is associated with an increased risk of mental health disorders later in life, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Strategies for Promoting Healthy Sleep Given the critical role of sleep in mental health for both parents and children, it's essential to prioritize sleep hygiene and establish healthy sleep habits. Here are some strategies to promote better sleep: Consistent Bedtime Routine: Establish a consistent bedtime routine for both parents and children. A calming bedtime routine signals to the body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Create a Sleep-Conducive Environment: Ensure that the bedroom environment is conducive to sleep . This includes keeping the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Limit Screen Time: Minimize screen time, especially before bedtime, as exposure to screens can interfere with melatonin production and disrupt sleep patterns. Encourage Physical Activity: Regular physical activity during the day can promote better sleep at night. Encourage children to engage in active play and ensure that parents incorporate exercise into their daily routine as well. Healthy Sleep Associations: Help children develop healthy sleep associations by associating bedtime with soothing activities such as reading or gentle music. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Teach children and parents relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or guided imagery to promote relaxation and stress relief before bedtime. Seek Professional Help When Needed: If sleep problems persist despite implementing these strategies, seek guidance from a healthcare professional or sleep specialist. You can always schedule a discovery call with me to discuss whether working with me will help your little one get a better night sleep. For parents and children alike, prioritizing sleep is essential for maintaining emotional well-being, cognitive function, and overall health. By recognizing the importance of sleep and implementing strategies to promote healthy sleep habits, parents can nurture a positive sleep environment for themselves and their children, laying the foundation for a lifetime of mental wellness.