nickymulligan@sleepnanny.co.uk
07903703037
Sleep Training FAQs
Sleep training is often misunderstood to be a process that requires leaving babies to cry...This is not true. Sleep training responsively means assisting a baby or child and meeting all their needs while helping them to achieve the best sleep they are capable of at any given stage in their development.
Should I sleep train my baby?
Whether or not to sleep train your baby is entirely a personal decision. You should consider your parenting style, your baby's temperament, and your family's needs. If your baby isn't sleeping and it is causing a disruption to you and your family, causing tiredness and anxiety, then it sounds like sleep training could be really beneficial. If you don't know where to start or you feel you have already tried everything then, consulting a professional sleep consultant could be the option for you.
When can you sleep train a baby?
There is no one right time to sleep train your baby or child, it's always best to decide when the time is right for you. As a general rule, I recommend sleep training can begin around 4 to 6 months of age, but it's essential to consider your individual situation. It's important not to feel pressured by friends, relatives or anything you may have read.
Can sleep training help my baby?
Sleep training can be helpful for many babies and families, but it's important to approach it with a good understanding of the individual needs of you and your baby.
Occasional sleep disturbances aren't concerning, however, an ongoing lack of consistent sleep can be incredibly draining on you and other members of the family, affecting mood, work and relationships.
If you find yourself in this situation, then sleep training may be the ideal solution. I can help you to establish healthy sleep habits for your child or baby and they will learn to sleep more independently.
Remember that sleep training doesn't mean ignoring your baby's needs or forcing them to sleep through the night immediately. It involves a gradual process of helping them learn healthy sleep habits while still providing comfort and care when needed.
Can you sleep train a newborn?
During the newborn stage (from birth to around 3 months), babies have very irregular sleep patterns due to factors such as hunger, growth spurts, and the need for comfort and closeness. Their tiny tummies require frequent feedings, leading to multiple awakenings throughout the day and night. Newborns also need the reassurance of being held, cuddled, and comforted.
I do not recommend sleep training for a newborn, instead of sleep training, the focus during the newborn stage should be on establishing healthy sleep habits and providing a safe, soothing sleep environment.
If you would like any advice on healthy sleep habits for newborns, then you can book one of my 'ask me anything calls'. I am here to help.
Can you sleep train a breastfed baby?
Yes it is possible to sleep train a breastfed baby, but due to the unique feeding patterns of breastfed babies, sleep training requires a balanced approach that addresses their sleep and feeding needs. I can tailor a sleep training program specifically around your breastfed baby, helping you to get the balance right between sleep and feeding.
What if the sleep training doesn't work?
Sleep training works! I know this because I've worked with countless families to develop healthy sleep habits and achieve what they never believed would be possible.
The only thing that could let you down is a lack of consistency when implementing the strategies provided. Of course, sickness, travel or other life events can disrupt your progress, but if you do find yourself in this situation, you will be equipped with all the tools and understanding to get back on track.
How long does sleep training take?
The length of time it takes to sleep train will vary between children and families. It could take as little as a few days to a few weeks. Typically, we will aim for an improvement in the first 10 days. Consistency is always key for sleep training to be a success.
Do I have to leave my baby to cry?
My sleep training methods do not involve leaving your baby to 'cry it out'. However, it is important to appreciate that all babies (and young children) cry in order to communicate. I will help you to read your baby's cries and understand their needs to offer suitable responses meaning you are never ignoring your baby's cries.
What is your success rate for sleep training?
My aim is to ensure all the families I work with achieve the results they are looking for when they commit to consistently implementing the strategies in their sleep training plans. I'm very proud of my success rate and you can read some of my sleep training reviews here. Every family I've worked with has achieved the results they wanted for their little one by understanding their bespoke sleep plan and consistently carrying out their plan.
Do you guarantee results?
I provide a service that consists of information and support and cannot control exactly how that is used by the customer. This means it's hard to guarantee exact results. I can, however, guarantee satisfaction with the assessment, consultation and help and guidance I offer. I can also guarantee that all the families I have worked with so far have achieved the sleep training results they were looking for. Please get in touch to find out more about my professional sleep training services.