Sarah Taylor, a certified pediatric sleep consultant and occupational therapist, is a knowledgeable professional specializing in sleep and child development. With extensive research in the field, she discusses the misconceptions surrounding sleep training in this article and highlights the advantages it can offer you and your child.
As a parent, the idea of sleep training your baby can feel daunting. You may worry that it could be traumatic for your little one, and the last thing you want is to cause any distress. However, research and expert opinions suggest that sleep training, when done correctly, is not only safe but is also beneficial for both babies and parents. Let’s explore why sleep training is not traumatic for babies and how it can lead to healthier sleep habits.

Understanding Sleep Training
Sleep training is a method used to help babies learn to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. It often involves techniques that encourage self-soothing, which allows babies to fall asleep independently without needing to be rocked, nursed, or held. The term "sleep training" is sometimes misunderstood. Think about other times the term "training" is used. Potty training is teaching your child to use the potty, computer training is when someone learns how to operate a computer. Training is the act of teaching someone a new skill. Learning a new skill is a POSITIVE experience!

The Myths vs. The Facts
Myth 1: Sleep Training Causes Emotional Harm
Many parents fear that sleep training will lead to emotional distress or harm their baby's attachment to them. However, studies have shown that sleep training does not negatively impact the parent-child bond. In fact, research published in the journal Pediatrics found no significant differences in emotional or behavioral issues between children who were sleep trained and those who were not. The key is to use gentle, responsive methods that support your baby's emotional needs.s
Myth 2: Babies Will Feel Abandoned
Another common concern is that sleep training makes babies feel abandoned. It's important to note that sleep training does not mean leaving your baby to cry for long periods of time. Methods such as "graduated extinction" involve gradually increasing the time between comforting checks, allowing your baby to learn self-soothing skills while still feeling supported. Parents are encouraged to respond to their baby's needs while also promoting independent sleep. There are also many methods of sleep training that involve being present with your baby the ENTIRE time.
Myth 3: Crying is Always Harmful
Hearing your baby cry can be distressing, but it's essential to understand that not all crying is harmful. Babies use crying as a way to communicate their needs and emotions. During sleep training, some crying is expected as your baby adjusts to new sleep patterns. This crying is usually short-lived and decreases as your baby becomes accustomed to falling asleep independently. Research shows that controlled crying does not cause long-term stress or harm to your baby.
Think about times in your life when you feel like crying or you do. Oftentimes, we just don't like change and we get upset. Maybe we were running late to work and there is a detour on the road. We are upset and want to cry, but this is not traumatizing to us long-term.

Benefits of Sleep Training
Better Sleep for the Whole Family
One of the most significant benefits of sleep training is improved sleep for both the baby and the parents. Well-rested parents are better equipped to provide the care and attention their baby needs during the day. Additionally, babies who sleep well at night tend to have better mood regulation and overall development.
Healthy Sleep Habits
Sleep training helps establish healthy sleep habits that can last a lifetime. By learning to fall asleep independently, babies are more likely to develop a regular sleep routine and experience fewer sleep disruptions as they grow older.
Reduced Parental Stress
Sleep deprivation can lead to increased stress and even postpartum depression in parents. By helping your baby learn to sleep through the night, sleep training can reduce parental stress and improve overall family well-being.
Conclusion
Sleep training, when approached with care and responsiveness, is not traumatic for babies. It can lead to better sleep for everyone in the family and establish healthy sleep habits that benefit your child's development. Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Trust your instincts, stay patient, and don't hesitate to seek advice from a pediatric sleep expert if needed. Sleep training is a positive step towards restful nights and happy, healthy days.
If you would like to read more detailed articles and studies about this topic, see below for some resources!
This is a podcast where a veteran sleep consultant interviews an expert in this field. She is a mental health expert and sleep consultant.
This is a randomized control trial where they did a 5 year follow up of children who were sleep trained.
This article reviews some of the various studies that were done to look at effects popular sleep training methods.
Thank you for your interest and for supporting my small business. Need help with teaching your child to sleep independently? Click here to contact us!
Sarah Taylor, OTR
Pediatric Sleep Consultant
Occupational Therapist
Instagram: @LittleSlumberStars
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