When it comes to gentle sleep training your baby, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure about when and how to start. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends encouraging your baby to sleep independently, but it’s important that you don’t start too early. In this post, we’ll explore the topic of gentle sleep training and discuss the age at which you can start.
>briefly and directly answer the question “what age should you start gentle sleep training?” in 2 or 3 sentences
It’s recommended to start gentle sleep training at after 6 months old, once your baby is developmentally ready. Before this age, it’s best to focus on helping them feel safe and secure while promoting healthy sleep habits.
When starting gentle sleep training there’s much to learn and it’s important to choose a gentle approach that meets your baby’s individual needs. To learn more about choosing a gentle sleep training method see “Gentle Sleep Training Methods Explained: Top 5 Main Methods“. Furthermore, continue reading to dive deeper into the best age to start gentle sleep training.
What Age Should You Gentle Sleep Train Newborns And Infants?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommends that newborns and infants sleep in the same room as their parents, but on a separate surface for the first six to 12 months of life. It’s not advisable to sleep train infants younger than six months, as their sleep patterns are still developing and they need plenty of close attention from caregivers. To ensure your infant is safe and secure, wait until 6 months old to consider gentle sleep training, or any sleep training method.
What Age Should You Start Gentle Sleep Training A Baby?
Most babies have developed both the physical and cognitive skills needed to sleep for longer periods of time around six months of age. By six months, babies have the ability to self-soothe and fall asleep without being held, rocked, or fed. If your baby is. still relies on you for comfort, soothing, and night feedings, there’s no need to rush. Every baby is different and you should follow your motherly instincts when responding to your baby’s needs.
At nine months and older, babies usually begin to understand routines and can adapt to changes in their sleep environment more easily. This is a great age to begin gentle sleep training. If you haven’t already started. You can gradually introduce a sleep training method that you and you baby are comfortable with.
If you begin to feel stressed and overwhelmed or notice you baby isn’t responding well, ease up or try a different method. This was you’ll avoid creating a negative association with sleep, that will make sleep training more difficult.
What Age Should You Gentle Sleep Train A Toddler?
If you haven’t already introduced sleep routines to your toddler, now is a good time to start it. Toddlers (around 18 months and older), are able to comprehend the concept of bedtime, and they can begin to understand what to expect when it is time to sleep. They are also starting to learn how to be a bit less dependent and curious to test the waters of being their own person, separate from mom.
In toddlerhood, you may still experience some push though. Toddler have grown familiar with their daily routines, and that includes bedtime. This isn’t something to worry about though, if you’ve been intentional with creating a good association with bedtime, based on security and safety. Your toddler will feel confident enough to eventually learn that going to bed alone is an acceptable and joyful experience.
Factors to consider
It’s important to remember that every baby is different. The “right” age to start sleep training differs from one baby to another. Factors like your baby’s temperament, development and any underlying medical conditions should be considered in making your decision. It is also important to make sure your baby is healthy and ready, before beginning any sleep training methods.
FAQ’s
Q: Is 6 months too early to start sleep training?
A: The AAP recommends that you wait until your baby is at least six months of age to begin any form of sleep training. It’s important to remember that every baby is different, and there are many factors to consider when deciding the best time for your individual child.
Q: Is 12 moths too late to start sleep training?
A: It is never too late to start gentle sleep training. If you haven’t yet introduced sleep routines, 12 months is a great time to do so. Older babies and toddlers can be taught the same healthy sleep habits that younger babies learn.
Q: What if my baby isn’t responding well?
A:If your baby isn’t responding well to gentle sleep training, it’s important to take a step back and assess the situation. Make sure your baby is developmentally ready for sleep training and that you are using an appropriate method. If necessary, try a different approach or ease up on your expectations until your baby is more comfortable with the process.
Q: What is the hardest age to sleep train?
A:Many parents find toddlerhood to be the most difficult age for sleep training. Toddlers are very curious and can often push back against new routines. If you’ve established a good association with bedtime, based on security and safety, your toddler will likely become more comfortable with alone time in their bedroom.
Final Remarks
Sleep training can be overwhelming but with the right approach and a good understanding of your baby’s individual needs, it doesn’t have to be. It’s important to remember that gentle sleep training takes time and patience. To ensure success, choose an age appropriate method, by reading this post next”Gentle Sleep Training Methods Explained: Top 5 Main Methods“, and find the one that works best for you and your baby. Start slow, focus on creating positive associations with sleep, and remain consistent.
By understanding the important age guidelines for gentle sleep training and staying informed, you can help your baby get the quality sleep they need. Remember to trust your intuition and create a safe and secure environment for both you and your baby.
With patience and consistency, you’ll soon be able to enjoy some restful nights of peaceful sleep with your little one. If you have more questions about what age to start gentle sleep training feel free to comment below.
Further Reading
Gentle Sleep Training Methods Explained: Top 5 Main Methods
