Some mothers suffer from sleep deprivation due to their infant's frequent awakenings, especially in the first few months after birth. Therefore, mothers need methods to train their babies to sleep.
When a baby gets a peaceful and regular sleep, especially at night, it helps reduce disturbances and gradually accustoms them to falling asleep independently at regular times.
What is sleep training for infants
It is the process of gradually teaching an infant to fall asleep independently without needing to be held or rocked. This is achieved through establishing a consistent and regular sleep routine.
Reasons why infants don't sleep
There are several reasons why an infant might have difficulty falling asleep and wake up frequently at night, such as:
- The baby feeling hungry.
- The baby experiencing colic and gas.
- The baby going through growth spurts.
- The baby needing to feel secure.
- The baby being used to being held to fall asleep.
- The baby going through teething.
- Loud noises or bright lights at bedtime.
How Many Hours of Sleep a Baby Needs
The number of hours a baby needs to sleep varies depending on their age, as follows:
- Babies from birth to 3 months need 14-17 hours of sleep.
- Babies from 3 to 11 months need 12-15 hours of sleep.
- Babies from 1 to 2 years need 11-14 hours of sleep.
The Importance of Sleep Training for Babies
The benefits of sleep training extend beyond the parents to the baby as well. A consistent routine helps the baby get enough sleep, thus promoting their physical and mental development.
It also helps strengthen their immune system, reduce frequent crying spells, and teach the baby to fall asleep independently without needing to be held or rocked.
Methods for Sleep Training for Babies
There are several methods for sleep training for babies, and mothers should choose the most suitable one for themselves and their child Some of these methods include:
- Preparing the room for sleep by reducing light and noise.
- Not associating the baby's sleep with being held, rocked, or breastfed.
- Playing with the baby during the day and preparing the room for sleep at night.
- The mother should sit next to the baby while they sleep and gradually withdraw.
- Associating the baby's sleep with a specific routine, such as a warm bath or singing a song.
- Putting the baby in their crib when they are sleepy to encourage independent sleep.
Tips for Parents to Sleep Training
Sleep training requires patience from both parents to establish a regular sleep schedule and a consistent bedtime routine. Some tips include:
- Gradually introducing sleep training.
- Alternating roles between mother and father.
- Establishing a consistent bedtime routine.
- Avoiding screen use before bedtime.
- Patience, perseverance, and consistency in maintaining the bedtime routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should sleep training begin
Sleep training can begin between 4 and 6 months of age.
What is the appropriate age for separating a baby's sleep
Separating a baby's sleep can be done after 6 months, but it's essential to ensure they don't require frequent feedings during the night.
In which month do babies' sleep patterns become regular
Babies' sleep patterns typically begin to become regular between 3 and 5 months of age.
Article Summary
Sleep training is a task that requires patience from parents to help their child fall asleep independently through consistent routines.
Several methods can be used, and the most suitable one can be chosen for each baby to help them achieve regular sleep and become self-sufficient at bedtime without needing to be rocked or held.