Sleep Training Tips & Tricks

The sleep training phase is one of the biggest baby phases I both look forward to and dread at the same time. On one hand, I dread it because of how long the process can take. But on the other hand, once you do figure it out and get into a good sleeping routine it is such a blessing!

I wanted to share with you a few tips and tricks that were helpful for both of my kids’ sleep training journeys. I hope that by sharing they hopefully help someone else struggling with this phase.

1. Routine

Creating a nap/bedtime routine for your baby can be a big help. When I first started sleep training my kids’ routines consisted of a diaper change, milk, then rocking and singing. Once they got older it changed to brushing teeth, changing diapers/potty, and reading a story. Creating a routine helps your baby know what to expect and can help them wind down.

2. Consistency

Staying consistent is key. It can be hard and draining but it is so important! If you decide to do cry it out – stick with it. If you plan to rock your baby to sleep – just know they’ll need it every time. Whatever you choose to do stay consistent. I know it can be hard but it is worth it in the end! When I sleep trained my son it took two weeks of him crying and refusing to sleep every nap time until he finally figured it out. It was the longest two weeks of my life. But once the consistency paid off – we were all happier.

3. Find what works for you/your kid

Just keep in mind that each child is different and they won’t all adapt the same way. My daughter for instance adjusted well to naps in her crib but it still took longer for her at night-time. My son, on the other hand, had no issue with night-time sleep but struggled with naps. I tried multiple methods with my son trying to find what worked.

Ultimately we went with cry it out, but that doesn’t work for every child or parent. It is completely fine if you prefer a different approach. And it is perfectly ok if it takes you multiple methods to figure out what works for you. You have to find what works for you as a parent and what works for your child.

4. Take it slow

Whether you’re trying to transition a baby into their own room, teaching them to learn to put themselves to sleep, or working on sleeping through the night — it will take time to get your little one adjusted. Take it slow and do a little bit at a time until you get there. With my daughter, I started her off by playing in her crib while I cleaned/put laundry away in her room. Once she got comfortable with the crib during playtime then I started trying one nap a day there, then two naps, and lastly, night-time.

5. Give yourself grace

The biggest advice I could give is to give yourself grace. The sleep training process can be long and hard and stressful. It can be very trying on your patience and sanity. If you’re anything like me the mom guilt will creep in some too. Every mom goes through it. Just hang in there and give yourself grace.

If you are struggling with sleep training, you are not alone! I’ve been there – twice. You can read all about my sleep training woes here. You can and will get through it. You’ve got this!