When Can I Begin Sleep Training?

The question of when to begin sleep training is hotly debated among parents, pediatricians, and other childcare professionals. There are some who recommend formal sleep training as early as 8 weeks old (!!) (the well-renowned Tribeca Pediatric Group in New York City is among those who promote sleep training at 8 weeks old), while there are others who do not believe in sleep training at any age.

While there are various opinions and guidelines floating around, the decision to embark on the sleep training journey ultimately rests with you, the parent. Yes, ultimately the RIGHT time to begin sleep training is when YOU as the parent are ready! If you begin sleep training before you feel committed, the chances of stopping the process before your baby has learn to fall asleep independently, are much higher. It’s best to wait until you are ready to start the process. That being said, there are some general principles to guide you along the way. Let's explore when to start, the importance of preparation, and choosing the right method.

When to Begin Sleep Training

The topic of when to start sleep training is often debated among parents and pediatricians.

At Slumberly, we begin offering sleep training services at 4 months of age, or as early as 3 months (with your pediatrician’s approval and certain weight markers met). We base this off of medical professionals who say it is safe to begin sleep training at this age. (Note: And yes, it is possible to keep a nighttime feeding and still sleep train.)

Between 3 and 4 months of age, babies begin to develop more predictable sleep patterns and may be more receptive to sleep training techniques. At this stage, they have typically outgrown the newborn phase and may be better equipped to self-soothe and sleep for longer stretches at night. However, it's important to note that every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another.

It's Never Too Late to Start

Many parents reach out to Slumberly asking if their baby is too old to sleep train. Fortunately, it's never too late to begin the process! Whether your baby is 4 months or 4 years old, there's always an opportunity to improve sleep habits and establish healthier routines.

While starting early may have its advantages, such as preventing the development of prolonged sleep associations and helping your baby avoid certain sleep regressions, it's important to remember that every child is adaptable and capable of learning new sleep behaviors. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can help your child develop lifelong sleep skills at any age!

Preparation Is Key

Regardless of when you decide to start sleep training, proper preparation is ESSENTIAL for success. Before diving into any sleep training method, take the time to evaluate your family's sleep environment, routines, and expectations. Consider your own readiness and commitment to the sleep training process. Choose a method that resonates with your parenting style and values, whether it's full-on cry-it-out, the Ferber method (at Slumberly we use a version of the Ferber method), or a long-term process like the chair method or pick-up-put-down.

Conclusion

The decision to begin sleep training is a deeply personal one, influenced by a multitude of factors including your baby's age and your personal readiness to begin the process. While starting around 4 months is considered acceptable, there's no one-size-fits-all approach, and it's never too late to make positive changes to your child's sleep habits.

When you're ready to embark on the sleep training journey, remember that preparation and consistency are key ingredients for success. Take the time to create a nurturing sleep environment, establish calming bedtime routines, and choose a method that aligns with your family's needs and values. With dedication and perseverance, you can help your little one develop healthy sleep habits that will benefit them for years to come.

And should you need customized support and guidance, as well as a method that works quickly and effectively…don’t hesitate to send us a message! We will guide you through every step of the sleep training process until your baby is sleeping through the night!