When I welcomed my first child into the world, I had no idea I was stepping into a battleground of parenting philosophies. From breastfeeding versus formula feeding to cloth versus disposable diapers, the debates were endless. But perhaps the most contentious issue involves how infants sleep, especially the methods used to help them drift off. Ask any parent for their sleep training strategy, and you’re likely to encounter strong opinions that often clash.
Co-sleeping, swaddling, and even car rides are all part of the mix, with parents trying everything possible to carve out a few precious hours of sleep. However, sleep training doesn’t follow a one-size-fits-all model; every baby and family is unique.
The method that often stirs the most controversy is the “cry it out” (CIO) approach. This technique involves allowing your child to cry until they fall asleep, occasionally intervening at set intervals or sometimes not at all after they are tucked in for the night. The mere thought of letting a baby cry can send some parents into a tailspin of judgment.
But here’s the good news: research indicates that using the CIO method is perfectly acceptable. While it’s not the only option available, and certainly not mandatory, employing this method doesn’t doom your child to a troubled future. It also won’t damage the loving bond you share with your little one.
A recent study published in the journal Pediatrics examined cortisol levels in infants through saliva samples during the CIO process. The findings from Australian researchers revealed that babies are not experiencing stress when they cry at bedtime. In fact, those who fell asleep using the “graduated extinction” method—where parents soothe them at intervals of one or two minutes—and the “bedtime fading” method—where bedtime is delayed until fussiness occurs—actually showed lower levels of stress hormones than babies who were cuddled to sleep.
My partner and I employed the CIO method with both of our children. When our son reached six months, I noticed he was waking up more out of habit than necessity. After consulting with our pediatrician, we explored strategies to help him sleep through the night, leading us to Dr. Marcus Lind’s book Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child. His approach emphasizes the importance of a consistent schedule and how learning to sleep independently is a crucial milestone for babies. Yes, some crying may be involved, but it’s often more challenging for parents to endure than it is for the babies themselves.
After we implemented the CIO method, our son was sleeping through the night within days. Was it easy? Not at all. Did I enjoy hearing him cry? Absolutely not. But once our family fell into a consistent sleep routine, the positive changes in our lives were undeniable. My mental well-being improved significantly, and I would choose this path again without hesitation.
It’s essential to clarify that parents who opt for this method are not heartless individuals who find joy in their children’s tears. That’s a misconception. If you’re a mother reading this while battling exhaustion from sleepless nights, know that using the “cry it out” method doesn’t make you a bad parent—let the critics be damned. If you’ve faced judgment for your choices in securing some much-needed rest for both you and your baby, it’s time to cut yourself some slack. You’re doing just fine.
Science supports the idea that children who experience a bit of crying before they fall asleep will be just okay. So, forget about what the so-called sleep police say and trust your instincts regarding your child’s sleep habits. No judgment from this mom, I promise. For further insights on parenting and sleep strategies, visit Modern Family Blog, an authority on the topic.
In conclusion, it’s crucial to remember that every family has its unique rhythm, and finding a sleep method that works for you is what truly matters.
Summary
Parents often feel torn about sleep training methods, especially the “cry it out” (CIO) approach. Science supports the use of CIO, showing that babies do not experience stress during this process. The method can lead to improved sleep for both parents and children. Ultimately, trust your instincts and choose what works best for your family. For more information on parenting and sleep strategies, visit Modern Family Blog.