CIO: Extinction Sleep Training | What It Is & If Its Safe
What is the cry it out method (extinction sleep training) The Cry-It-Out (CIO) method is a sleep training approach where parents allow their baby to cry for a set period without immediate intervention, with the goal of helping them learn to self-soothe and fall asleep independently. There are two main versions of CIO: What I […]
Ferber: The Method. Schedule, Analysis & Alternatives
What is the Ferber Sleep Training Method While my philosophy focuses on gentle sleep coaching methods like the Sleep Lady Shuffle, I understand that many families consider the Ferber Method for sleep training. Below, I’ll outline the facts about the Ferber Method, its steps, and alternatives, while sharing my thoughts to help you make an […]
Why Sleep Training Is Bad:Controversies & Child Bonds
Why Extinction Sleep Training Gets a Bad Name—and How Better Methods Can Work Sleep training is one of the most polarizing topics in parenting. Approaches like unmodified extinction or “Cry It Out” (CIO)—where caregivers leave their child to cry without intervention—are widely criticized for their harshness and emotional toll. For many parents, the idea of […]
CIO(Cry it Out) vs Ferber vs The Sleep Lady Shuffle
Cry-It-Out vs. Ferber As a parent, you may have heard of the Cry-It-Out (CIO) and Ferber methods for sleep training. While both are popular, neither reflects the gentle, responsive approach I advocate through the Sleep Lady Shuffle. Let’s break these down so you can decide what works best for your family—and understand why gentler methods […]
Sleep Training Not Working – Method Mismatch or Something Else?
Baby not responding to sleep training When sleep training doesn’t seem to be working, it’s often not your baby—it’s the approach. Every baby is unique, and some methods might not align with your child’s temperament or developmental readiness. It’s essential to step back, assess what’s happening, and make thoughtful adjustments to your plan. It Might […]
Can You Sleep Train Newborns? No , But Here Is What You Can Do
Can You Sleep Train Newborns? No, sleep training is not appropriate for newborns. As a sleep expert, I advise parents to hold off on formal sleep training, like my gentle sleep coaching method (The Sleep Lady Shuffle), until their baby is at least 6 months old. Newborns in their first three months—commonly called the “fourth […]
Sleep Training A 1-Year-Old: Best Method & How Long
Can you sleep train a 1-year-old You can sleep train a 1-year-old! While older toddlers may resist more due to independence or ingrained habits, they adapt quickly with a consistent approach. Start with a gentle method like the Sleep Lady Shuffle, staying close to offer reassurance while teaching self-soothing. A calming bedtime routine and consistent […]
Sleep Training 6 To 11 Months Old
When do babies learn to fall asleep on their own? One of the most common questions parents ask is, “When will my baby learn to fall asleep on their own?” While every baby develops at their own pace, most start building this skill between 4 and 6 months of age. During this time, their circadian […]
Sleep Training for 2-Year-Olds – Methods & Plans
At two years old, toddlers are exploring their independence, testing boundaries, and often experiencing separation anxiety. Sleep struggles at this age are common, but with gentle, consistent coaching, your child can learn to sleep independently while feeling safe and supported. From waking up screaming at night to flat out refusal it can be so tough. […]
Naps Are Too Short? It’s Time to Nap Coach My Baby!
Naps Are Too Short? It’s Time to Nap Coach My Baby! A mom named Terra wrote in and asked the following question about her baby whose naps are too short: “I have a baby sleep problem. My baby is almost 6 months old. I’m working on getting her 3 regular naps a day. What should […]