Teaching an infant to sleep independently requires patience and tenacity--two things that can be in short supply with new parents. Some babies take very easily to their cribs, while others make loud, tearful objections. Keep in mind that baby experts Dr. William Sears and Dr. Richard Ferber both report that babies younger than 6 months aren't usually old enough to learn to put themselves to sleep. However, if you've decided that it's time for the baby to sleep in her own space, there are some techniques that can be used for success.
Step 1
Begin your child's sleep program during a week when you can lose some sleep, or during nap times. Although your child may not know the difference between a nighttime sleep and a nap, you will, and it will be easier for you to stick to your program if you aren't battling fatigue and frustration, too.
Step 2
Have a routine in place. Both Sears and Ferber report that babies will develop habits and that can help them sleep. Give the baby a bath and nurse her or give her a bottle. Read a story or sing a lullaby. Choose something that you'd like to do every night, because these will be your baby's signals that it's time for sleep. Make sure she's as sleepy as possible, but not actually asleep when you put her in her crib.
Step 3
Leave the room immediately and wait. If your baby starts to cry, you have several options. The Ferber method suggests allowing your child to cry for a few minutes before returning to his room, offering some encouraging words or a back rub and then leaving again. The next time, you'll need to wait additional time before re-entering your child's room. Dr. Sears suggests going to your child each time your child cries and offering comfort until your child goes to sleep. He suggests letting your baby go to sleep in your arms or while nursing and then putting the child in his crib.
Step 4
Leave some of yourself with your baby. Before you put your baby in her crib, give her a blanket that you've slept with, so that when she awakens, she'll be comforted by your scent.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't worry if your child doesn't take to the "cry it out" methods. Some babies just aren't ready until they are 8 or 9 months old.
- Consult with your pediatrician if your child becomes so upset in his crib that he becomes hysterical or vomits.
Things You'll Need
- Blanket with your scent on it
