As a parent, you want nothing more than to give your baby everything they need to thrive—including good sleep. But when is the right time to start sleep training? The answer depends on your baby’s development and your family’s unique circumstances. Let’s explore the signs and milestones that suggest it might be time to help your little one develop independent sleep skills.
The Sweet Spot for Sleep Training
Most experts agree that the ideal time to begin sleep training is between 4 and 6 months of age. By this stage, your baby’s sleep cycles are maturing, and they no longer need frequent night time feeds. Their brains and bodies are ready to learn new patterns, making it an ideal time to gently teach self-soothing skills.
What if my baby is under 4 months old?
That being said, every baby is different. If your little one is under four months and you’re struggling with sleep deprivation, focusing on gentle sleep foundations—like consistent bedtime routines and promoting drowsy-but-awake practices—can make a big difference without formal sleep training.
Don’t worry if you’ve missed the ‘sweet spot’!
Any age after 5 months is perfectly fine to commence sleep training as you will still most definitely be able to see your desired results. Whether your baby is 8 months, 11, months, 1.5 years or 2.5 years there will be a sleep training method suited for your little one’s temperament and your parenting style.
Signs Your Baby is Ready
Not sure if the time is right? Look for these signs that your baby may be ready for sleep training:
They’re at least five months old and healthy.
Night time feeds are becoming more habit than necessity.
They struggle to settle without being rocked, fed, or held to sleep.
Inconsistent sleep is taking a toll on the whole family.
Trust Your Instincts
Remember, sleep training isn’t about forcing your baby to sleep; it’s about creating an environment where they feel secure and supported as they develop new skills. When you and your baby are ready, sleep training can be a life-changing step toward restful nights and happier days.
What you need to consider when starting sleep training:
Ensuring a safe sleep environment
During the first few days of sleep training you’ll need to be organised in your daily life so that you can focus on teaching your baby to sleep better
Ensure your partner or support person are on board with the changes that are about to be made
Choosing a sleep training strategy that aligns with your little one’s temperament and your parenting tyle
Pick a starting date and be consistent with settling and resettling
You will need strong levels of commitment to see desired results
Consider whether you’d like to implement changes yourself (completely fine!) or with the support of a knowledgeable, experienced sleep consultant
Overwhelmed with where to begin when it comes to sleep training?
If you’re unsure or overwhelmed, know that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Reach out for guidance, and let’s work together to find the perfect strategy and approach for your family. Better sleep is within reach – my Nurture Support Sleep Program may be just what you need.
Nurture Support Sleep Program
Are you struggling with multiple night wakes, inconsistent day naps or long settles for naps and bedtimes and you’re all just … exhausted?
Maybe your little one is:
Relying on you to fully assist them in falling asleep and this has now become unsustainable for you
Consistently waking up overnight when you know they have the potential to sleep longer stretches
Feeling tired and cranky because they are only taking short naps during the day or maybe nap times and lengths are inconsistent
Not getting the sleep they need for growth, behaviour and immunity which is resulting in other health and well-being issues
Knowing the exact steps you could take for you and your little one to get a good night’s sleep would be life-changing… right?
Well, the good news is that I can help you take the right steps to achieve your goals!
The Nurture Support Sleep Program Includes:
1. Online Sleep Questionnaire and Assessment
2. Personalised Sleep Plan
3. Online Sleep and Activity Log where I support you
4. Regular phone check in’s over 1 or 2 weeks
5. Everything Sleep Guide
Are you ready to have a happy,
well-rested sleeper?
If you’re exhausted and uncertain of where to begin, know that I’ve been there too.
Let me show you how to navigate sleep with ease for a happier, well-rested family!
Fill out my Contact Form and I’ll be in touch
Nicole Jayawickreme
Certified Baby Sleep Consultant and Registered Nurse (Neonatal Intensive Care)
I’m a certified sleep specialist, neonatal intensive care nurse, wife and a mother of 3 beautiful little children. I know first hand how important sleep is and I am here to help you and your family with my sleep programs so that you all can thrive.
I will guide and empower determined parents like you, to get the sleep you desperately need so that you have the energy to be the best parent that you can be!
Comments