What to do if baby cries during sleep training?

When your baby cries during sleep training, the initial approach involves soothing techniques without picking them up.

Here's a breakdown of what to do, based on common sleep training methods and incorporating the provided reference:

Initial Response

• Soothing: If your baby starts to fuss immediately after being put down, use soothing words and gentle touch to calm them.
• Avoid Picking Up: Try to avoid picking the baby up during this initial phase.
• Leave the Room: After attempting to soothe, leave the room, closing the door behind you. The reference notes that it's very likely your baby will start to protest and cry within minutes of you leaving, especially during the first few nights.

Addressing Crying After Leaving the Room

Different sleep training methods suggest varying responses to crying after you've left the room. Here are a couple of common approaches:

1. Extinction (Cry It Out)

• Description: This method involves putting the baby down and not returning, even if they cry.
• What to do: If you're using this method, you would not go back into the room until the designated wake-up time. This can be difficult for parents, but proponents argue it's the fastest way to sleep train.

2. Gradual Extinction (Check-and-Console)

• Description: This method involves checking on the baby at increasing intervals to provide comfort.

• What to do:

  1. Set Intervals: Decide on a schedule for checking on the baby (e.g., 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 7 minutes).
  2. Check-In: When you go in for a check, offer brief reassurance (e.g., "It's okay, time to sleep"). Avoid picking up the baby or engaging in prolonged interaction.
  3. Leave Again: Leave the room after a short check, even if the baby is still crying.
  4. Repeat: Continue checking at the designated intervals until the baby falls asleep.

• Example:

  Check Number	Time Since Last Check	Action
  1	3 minutes	Brief verbal reassurance, no picking up.
  2	5 minutes	Brief verbal reassurance, no picking up.
  3	7 minutes	Brief verbal reassurance, no picking up.
  ...	...	Continue increasing the interval as needed.

Important Considerations

• Consistency: Regardless of the method you choose, consistency is key. Switching methods or giving in intermittently can confuse the baby and prolong the sleep training process.
• Safety: Ensure the baby's sleep environment is safe (e.g., firm mattress, no loose bedding).
• Parental Support: Sleep training can be emotionally challenging. It's helpful to have a support system in place, whether it's a partner, family member, or friend.
• Consult a Professional: If you have concerns about your baby's crying or sleep, consult with your pediatrician or a certified sleep consultant.