Sleep Training Unlocked: 3 Powerful Gentle Considerations for Holistic Sleep Training of Breastfed Babies

Caring for a baby involves myriad challenges, and among the most pressing is the establishment of healthy sleep patterns; sometimes, gentle sleep training is needed. Last week, we examined the ultimate readiness checklist for sleep-training babies. This week, we address a relevant question that strikes a chord with many parents. Specifically, we explore how to assist an 8-month-old who struggles to fall asleep independently when they are still exclusively breastfed and sleeping in a crib next to the parents’ bed.

Amal’s concerns echo the common dilemma faced by parents striving to nurture independent sleep skills for their children without resorting to traditional cry-it-out methods. We appreciate her awareness and share her reservations about conventional sleep training. In this blog, we aim to offer holistic suggestions tailored to her unique situation.

Trust Your Parental Intuition when considering sleep training:

First and foremost, trust your parental intuition when it comes to sleep training. If you sense that your baby may find it challenging to self-soothe, this carries significant weight. Understanding the underlying reasons behind your baby’s struggle to fall asleep independently is important.

Gentle Approach to Sleep Training:

Discern the disparity between leaving your baby to cry alone and being a responsive, comforting presence during the sleep coaching process. Choosing a gentle approach enables you to support your little one as they learn to self-soothe

Supporting Independent Sleep Skills:

Remember, you can help your baby cultivate independent sleep skills even while room-sharing or bed-sharing and continuing to breastfeed exclusively. Embracing a gentle sleep coaching process effectively addresses these concerns, allowing you to navigate this journey with care and sensitivity.

In conclusion, we encourage you to prioritize your intuition, consider a gentle and responsive approach to sleep training, and recognize that it’s entirely possible to promote independent sleep skills while continuing to breastfeed during the night.

Amal, your approach is commendable, and we understand the challenges you face. If you need further assistance or have more questions about sleep training, do not hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you on this sleep training journey, and we wish you and your little one all the best as you navigate the path to healthy and restful sleep through sleep training.

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