Sleep Training Do’s and Don’ts
- Niharika Prinsloo
- Feb 19
- 4 min read
Trying to help your baby sleep longer and more consistently? Sleep training can be a big step, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating.
In simple terms, it’s about guiding your baby to fall asleep on their own, so everyone gets better rest. That said, there’s no single right way to do this—it’s all about finding an approach that fits your family’s style.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clearer idea of the do’s and don’ts of sleep training, some handy tips for handling bumps in the road, and pointers on when to get extra help.
I’ll Cover
Let's dive in!
Why Sleep Training?
“Sleep training” is just another way of saying you’re helping your baby learn to fall asleep by themselves and stay asleep for longer stretches.
Whether you try this around four or six months—or even later—depends on your baby’s development and your comfort level.
The idea is simple: babies who can self-soothe typically wake less at night, and parents often get more rest, too.
If you’re curious about sleep patterns at different ages, see Sleep Schedule for Newborn Baby for guidance on early stages, or Helping Your Baby Sleep Through the Night for tips on reducing frequent wake-ups in older babies.
Key Sleep Training Do’s
Pick a Method That Suits You Whether it’s gradual withdrawal (staying by the crib and slowly reducing your presence) or short check-ins, choose something you feel comfortable doing consistently.
For a gentler approach, see Gentle Approach to Better Baby Sleep.
Maintain a Calming Bedtime Routine Babies thrive on predictability. A wind-down routine—like a bath, pajamas, lullaby, or quick story—helps them anticipate sleep.
Watch for Overtiredness When babies get too sleepy, they release stress hormones that make settling harder.
Look for cues like eye-rubbing or fussiness. If you’re unsure what overtiredness looks like, see Signs for Overtired Baby.
Respond to Real Needs Sleep training isn’t about leaving your baby alone no matter what. If they’re hungry, in pain from teething, or have a dirty diaper, take care of it.
The goal is to reduce unnecessary awakenings, not ignore genuine problems.
Stay Consistent Pick your straegy and give it at least a week or two to gauge progress. Babies need time to learn new patterns.
Key Sleep Training Don’ts
Don’t Rush or Skip the Routine. A panicked or rushed bedtime can leave your baby overstimulated. Routines help signal the brain that sleep is coming.
Don’t Start During Major Changes. Avoid beginning sleep training if your baby is going through a growth spurt, illness, or teething crisis. Wait until they’re feeling better so they can adapt more smoothly.
Don’t Compare Your Baby to Others. Each baby has their own pace. What works for a friend’s baby in three days might take a couple of weeks for yours.
Don’t Expect Overnight Miracles. It might take time to see real, lasting improvement. Some setbacks are totally normal. For ideas on coping when things stall, see When Nothing Works for Baby.
Don’t Ignore Safe Sleep Practices. Always follow guidelines like placing your baby on their back, keeping blankets out of the crib, and ensuring the sleeping environment is secure. For more on safety, see Safe Sleep Practices for Infants.
Common Hiccups and How to Handle Them
Sleep Regressions Babies can experience regressions (like the 4-month one) due to developmental leaps.
It’s normal. If you’re in this stage, see 4 Month Sleep Regression or What Are Baby Sleep Regressions & How to Manage Them for coping strategies.
Frequent Night Wakings If your baby is still waking up every hour, reassess if they’re getting enough daytime nutrition or if bedtime is too late.
How to Stop Frequent Night Wakings offers more detailed help.
Travel or Change in Routine Sudden changes—like vacations or visitors—can disrupt even the best sleepers. Try to keep the same bedtime routine and environment. Learn more in Baby Sleep Routine While Traveling.
When to Seek Professional Help
Consider reaching out if:
Your Baby Is Over 6 Months and still wakes multiple times a night with no improvement.
You Feel Overwhelmed or exhausted, affecting your well-being.
You Suspect Health Issues like reflux or allergies might be interfering with sleep.
A sleep consultant or pediatrician can provide personalized strategies to tackle multiple challenges at once.
How MyBabySleepConsultant Can Help
MyBabySleepConsultant offers step-by-step, supportive guidance to families tackling baby sleep challenges:
Customized Sleep Plans We tailor everything to your baby’s age, health, and temperament.
Gentle, Science-Backed Methods Our approach combines nurturing with proven sleep techniques.
Ongoing Support Whether you need follow-up calls or emails, we’ll help you stay on track, even through teething or big developmental leaps.
Holistic Approach We tie in feeding schedules, nap routines, and nighttime strategies to build a balanced plan.
Final Thoughts
Sleep training can make a huge difference for both your baby and you, but it’s a journey that requires patience, consistency, and plenty of reassurance.
Remember, the goal isn’t to leave your baby crying endlessly—it’s to guide them toward falling asleep on their own, so everyone enjoys more restful nights.
Ready to help your baby sleep better? Schedule a consultation now with a certified baby sleep consultant.
Comments