When it comes to parenting advice, there’s an overwhelming amount available, and it’s understandable if you’re feeling fatigued by it all. However, for those preparing for parenthood, I urge you to take heed of your overly confident, sleep training friends.
I typically shy away from dishing out parenting tips since my approach can be best described as “default parenting.” This means I’ve dabbled in various parenting trends, often failing, and ultimately just doing my best to get by. Among the myriad of advice I received, one piece that I deeply regret not embracing is sleep training. The consequences of skipping this step have significantly impacted my well-being.
My realization has been reignited after reading an article titled “In Defense of Ridiculously Early Bedtimes.” As if anyone needs to justify the necessity of that practice! Who among us wouldn’t prefer to unwind on the couch rather than juggling parenting responsibilities late into the night? The author, Samantha Grey, a well-respected science communicator, consistently puts her children to bed by 7:30 PM, and the benefits are clear. Research indicates that children who go to bed earlier tend to be healthier, happier, and perform better academically.
Grey reviews various studies that affirm the importance of early bedtimes. For instance, she cites research showing that having 8- to 12-year-olds go to sleep an hour earlier can enhance their emotional stability and improve their cognitive abilities. Another study highlights that 2-year-olds with early bedtimes are significantly less likely to experience attention issues or aggressive behavior as they grow older.
Moreover, earlier bedtimes not only support children’s sleep quality, but they also provide much-needed respite for parents. Imagine enjoying a peaceful evening with a glass of wine or catching up on your favorite series without interruptions! After enduring many sleepless nights, it’s easy to get a bit irritable, and I’m sure you can relate.
If you are hesitant about adhering to a strict sleep schedule for your infant, reconsider. The sweet baby whose cries tug at your heartstrings will soon transform into a rambunctious toddler who can turn your home upside down every evening. My firstborn, for example, was still sleeping in a pack-n-play at the age of three because he needed to be contained; otherwise, he would meander around his room for hours. He would chatter to himself for nearly two and a half hours each night after I tucked him in. Now at five, he still shows some of those tendencies. In contrast, my second child has an earlier bedtime, primarily because I was utterly exhausted by the time she was born and didn’t want to repeat the same struggles.
Reflecting on my parenting journey, I remember attempting the cry-it-out method with my first child when he was just four months old. I rushed to his room, whispering apologies while he sobbed, and I never looked back. It’s essential to acknowledge when you’ve made a misstep, and I certainly have.
Numerous studies support the notion that early bedtimes are beneficial for children. Establishing an earlier sleep schedule during infancy can lead to long-term advantages for both children and parents. You’ll find yourself far more content, enjoying uninterrupted evenings, whether that means watching a show or simply relaxing.
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In summary, while parenting advice can feel overwhelming, the benefits of sleep training and establishing an early bedtime for your child are well-supported by research. Taking these steps can improve your child’s health and your own well-being, allowing for more peaceful evenings together.
Keyphrase: Sleep training benefits for children
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