It is time to let go of the guilt about sleep training! That’s right mama, there is so much good that can come from sleep training your baby or child that it can outweigh the hard few days that it takes to help your child gain a healthy relationship with sleep.
Sleep training, which involves establishing healthy sleep habits in infants and young children, can be a difficult decision for some parents. It’s natural for parents to feel guilty about sleep training due to various reasons, such as concerns about their child’s well-being, fear of causing distress, or societal pressure. However, there are valid reasons why you can let go of guilt about sleep training.
Here are 5 reasons to let go of the guilt about sleep training:
Sleep training is a valid parenting choice:
Sleep training is a valid parenting choice that many families choose to help their child develop healthy sleep habits. It’s important to remember that as a parent, you have the right to make decisions that you believe are best for your child and your family. I know that you hear opinions from all of your friends and family, but you do you! You know what is best for your family. Additionally, studies have shown how sleep training, if done correctly is not harmful to the child and improves maternal mental health along with overall health for the child.
Improved sleep for everyone:
Sleep training can result in improved sleep not only for your child, but also for you and other family members. When your child learns to self-soothe and sleep independently, it can lead to better sleep for everyone in the household, which can positively impact everyone’s physical and mental well-being. Yes, mama, your child needs sleep and you do too!
Long-term benefits:
Establishing healthy sleep habits early on can have long-term benefits for your child’s development and overall well-being. Quality sleep is crucial for cognitive, emotional, and physical development in children, and sleep training can help lay a foundation for healthy sleep patterns that can benefit your child throughout their life. Working with your child on sleep is giving them a gift that can last the rest of their lives.
Reducing sleep-related stress:
Sleep deprivation and sleep-related challenges can be stressful for both parents and children. Sleep training can help reduce the stress associated with sleep struggles, as it provides a structured approach to establishing healthy sleep habits. By letting go of guilt and focusing on the long-term benefits, you can reduce stress and create a more positive sleep environment for your family.
Sleep training does not always mean cry it out:
First, know that choosing a method for sleep training is not the full picture of sleep training. You will need an age appropriate schedule, a safe and sleep conducive sleep environment and sometimes support and guidance is necessary. Sleep is like a puzzle, if a piece is missing, it will not come together. Ensure you have all your pieces before selecting your approach or method.
While one method to approach sleep training is Cry It Out. It is not the only method. There are other methods out there that are more gentle and do allow you to check / respond to your child. Do your research and choose a method that is right for your family.
By choosing a sleep training method that aligns with your parenting style and your child’s developmental stage, you can meet your child’s needs for healthy sleep while also providing reassurance, following a comprehensive sleep plan.
While it’s natural to feel guilt about sleep training, it’s important to remember that it can have benefits for both the child and the parents. It’s a personal decision that should be made with consideration for your child’s well-being, your family’s needs, and your own self-care.
It’s okay to let go of guilt and trust your judgment as a parent. If you have concerns about sleep training, it’s always best to consult with your pediatrician and a qualified Certified Sleep Consultant for guidance and support.
