Sleep Schedules and Training
Bobo Team • All you need to know • 4 min read
One of the most crucial aspects of promoting healthy sleep habits for your baby is establishing an appropriate sleep schedule. Babies thrive on predictability and routine. However, it's essential to remember that every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
Wake Windows: The Key to a Good Sleep Schedule
Wake windows are the periods of time your baby is awake between sleep periods. Understanding and respecting these wake windows is crucial for avoiding overtiredness, which can lead to sleep difficulties. Here's a general guide to wake windows by age:
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0-4 months: 45-90 minutes
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4-6 months: 1.5-2.5 hours
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6-9 months: 2-3 hours
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9-12 months: 2.5-3.5 hours
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12-18 months: 3-5 hours
Remember, these are averages, and your baby might need slightly shorter or longer wake windows.
Nap Transitions
As your baby grows, their sleep needs change. It is important to recognize when your baby is ready for a nap transition. Signs may include:
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Consistently fighting a nap
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Taking longer to fall asleep
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Waking early from naps
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Night sleep disturbances
The transition from 2 naps to 1 nap, which typically occurs around 12-18 months, can be particularly challenging. Be patient and flexible during this time.
Sleep Training: What Canadian Parents Need to Know
Sleep training is a process that helps babies learn to fall asleep independently and stay asleep through the night. While it can be a challenging process, it's often beneficial for both babies and parents in the long run.
When to Start Sleep Training
Sleep training can begin once your baby is at least 16 weeks old (adjusted for prematurity if applicable). By this age, babies have typically developed a more regular sleep-wake cycle and are capable of self-soothing.
Sleep Training Methods
There are various sleep training methods, ranging from gentle, gradual approaches to more direct methods. Some common approaches include:
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Gradual withdrawal (fading)
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Pick-up, put-down
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Controlled comforting (Ferber method)
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Chair method
There's no one-size-fits-all approach. Choose a method that aligns with your parenting philosophy and your baby's temperament.
Tips for Successful Sleep Training
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Consistency is key: Stick to your chosen method for at least 2-3 weeks before deciding if it's working.
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Create a sleep-conducive environment: Ensure the room is dark, cool, and quiet.
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Establish a bedtime routine: A consistent routine signals to your baby that it's time to sleep.
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Address sleep associations: Gradually reduce reliance on sleep crutches like feeding or rocking to sleep.
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Be patient: Progress may not be linear, but with consistency, most babies show significant improvement within a week or two.
Special Considerations for Canadian Parents
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Seasonal changes: With our varying daylight hours, consider using blackout curtains to maintain a consistent sleep environment year-round.
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Daycare transitions: If your baby attends daycare, work with caregivers to maintain consistent sleep routines as much as possible.
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Multiples: If you have twins or multiples, The Sleep Consultant suggests sleep training them together in the same room if that's your long-term plan.
Remember, every baby is unique, and what works for one family may not work for another. Trust your instincts, be patient with yourself and your baby, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if you're struggling. With time and consistency, you can help your baby develop healthy sleep habits that will benefit your entire family.
Sources
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The Sleep Consultant. (2021, July 06). How to find your baby’s ideal wake window. https://www.thesleepconsultant.ca/blog/how-to-find-your-babys-ideal-wake-window
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The Sleep Consultant. (2021, March 12). Crying and sleep training. https://www.thesleepconsultant.ca/blog/crying-and-sleep-training
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The Mother Baby Center. (2023, July 06). Sleep training methods. https://www.themotherbabycenter.org/blog/2023/07/sleep-training-methods/
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The Sleep Consultant. (2021, June 09). All you need to know about daycare sleep. https://www.thesleepconsultant.ca/blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-daycare-sleep
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WebMD. (2023, October 04). How to Set Good Sleep Patterns for Your Baby. https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/newborns
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NHS. (2021, December 08). Helping your baby to sleep. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/caring-for-a-newborn/helping-your-baby-to-sleep/
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Sleep Foundation. (2024, January 08). Sleep training. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/baby-sleep/sleep-training
This information is provided for entertainment purposes only. We do not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.
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