Infant sleep training: Finding the right method for your family

Infant Sleep Training: Finding the Right Method for Your Family

When you start looking into sleep training, it can feel very overwhelming, endless advice, conflicting opinions and quick-fix promises that your baby will “sleep through the night in three days.”

If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling and scrolling through Google trying to make sense of it all, you’re not alone.

The truth is, there isn’t one “right” sleep training method. What works beautifully for one baby might not suit another at all. The real key is finding an approach that feels gentle, supportive and realistic for your family, one that helps your little one learn to sleep confidently without leaving you feeling confused or overwhelmed.

Sleep Training Methods: A Quick Overview

There are lots of sleep training methods out there but here’s a quick look at two of the main types parents often hear about.

1. Extinction-Based Sleep Training

This is sometimes known as the “cry it out” method. Parents place their baby down awake and then don’t return until a set time.

While some families see quick results, it can feel emotionally challenging and it doesn’t align with every parent’s instincts.

It’s important to remember that gentle sleep training doesn’t have to mean leaving your baby to cry alone.

2. Room-Based or Responsive Sleep Training

This approach is much more supportive and nurturing. Parents stay close, often in the same room, offering comfort through voice, touch, or presence as their baby learns to settle.

Over time, your support gradually reduces as your little one gains confidence in their ability to fall asleep independently.

This is the responsive sleep training method I use in my work as a baby sleep consultant. It’s a gentle, connection-based approach that balances progress with reassurance.

And yes, there will still be some tears. Change is hard for babies, and crying is how they express that. But the difference is, your little one never has to face that change alone.

Choosing the Right Sleep Training Method

The best sleep training method is the one that works for your family, your child’s temperament, your parenting values and your comfort level.

That’s why my personalised sleep support plans are built around you. We look at your baby’s routine, sleep environment, and family goals to create a plan that feels manageable and genuinely supportive.

No endless Googling, no confusing advice, just clear steps and a gentle, evidence-based plan that actually works.

Ready to Begin Sleep Training?

If you’re unsure which approach suits your little one best, I’d love to help you find your fit.