Sleep training is essential since your baby gets to adopt consistent resting habits. Plus, as a parent, you will have some spare time to relax or do other things. There are different techniques that you can utilize to train your child to sleep on their own. Usually, the best time to start the activity is when your kid is about four to six months. Here are crucial tips that you can use to make sleep training success.
1. Try Full Feedings
Your baby can sleep through the night on a full stomach. On that account, you need to encourage full feedings of about 20 minutes. Ensure that the time has elapsed before your child falls asleep in your arms. This way, he or she won’t wake up during the day or night to feed. You can transfer him or her to the baby bassinet for comfort and a restful nap.
2. Keep a Log
Keeping a log is vital since you will notice your child’s sleep patterns. You can track the information based on how your baby sleeps during the day and night. Then, use the data to determine the best bedtime. If they get fussy at 8 pm, it is the best time to put the baby down. In the log, you can record the period that your baby cries. This way, you won’t feel the need to check up on them if it’s less than three minutes of fussing.
3. Establish a Bedtime Routine
A bedtime routine prepares your body to fall asleep with sheer simplicity. You can utilize soothing methods such as singing lullabies, bathing or reading a book. It means that exciting things like toys and TV are out of the equation. Adhere to the routine to the latter so that your kid gets accustomed to the rituals.
4. Pick a Sleep Training Method
Different sleep training techniques work for specific children. For that reason, you can identify one that suits your child based on sleep patterns. You can opt for the chair method where you sit next to the crib as the child tries to sleep. The cry it out method entails allowing the child to fuss and sleep. Fading is when you sooth with feeding, rocking, and talking.
5. Choose a Suitable Start Date
When you want to start sleep training your baby, timing is important. You can choose a Friday that falls on a weekend that you are free from work. Avoid the activity around crucial events such as hiring a new nanny or when your child is teething.
6. Optimize the Nursery
Your child needs to sleep in an environment that gives them peace. Thus, the nursery should be comfortable away from too much heat or cold. Also, dim the lights so that your baby can sleep soundly. Ensure that it is the same place your kid naps during the day and night.
7. Adhere to Regular Nap Times
The amount of time that your child sleeps is vital. For example, at least 30 to 45 minutes can work to avoid oversleeping. Sleep deprivation can make him or her tired and fussy. Excessive sleep during the way means the baby will be awake at night.
8. Use a Pacifier
If your baby likes a pacifier, you can use it to make them fall asleep. It can soothe him or her so that you don’t get worried about them crying. The best part is that when your baby wakes up due to disturbance, they can go back to napping.
9. Hold Your Response Time
When you hear your baby crying, delay your response time. Don’t be quick to rush to the nursery since it can be a normal whimper. The child can fall back to sleep without your assistance. If you respond to all noises, your baby will wake up and not know how to self-soothe.
10. Consistency is Crucial
After you have developed a routine and sleep training method, stick to it. Ensure that your kid has eaten to the fullest. Please encourage them to play so that they can develop their skills. Also, reduce the sleep crutches so that they can soothe on their own. You will have a seamless time as your child learns how to nap with minimal help.
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