As a new parent, figuring out your baby's nap schedule can be equivalent to solving a complex math problem. One commonly debated method is the cry it out approach, where you let your little one cry themselves to sleep. But how long should you let them cry for? We've consulted with experts and parents alike to bring you the ultimate guide on how long to let your baby cry it out for naps.
The Cry It Out Method
Before we dive into the timing aspect of cry it out, let's briefly touch upon what exactly this method entails. Essentially, it involves putting your baby down when they are drowsy but not completely asleep and allowing them to self-soothe by crying themselves to sleep. While this approach can be effective in helping babies learn how to fall asleep independently, some parents may find the sound of their baby crying unsettling or worry that I will traumatize their child (Spoiler alert: It won't).
How Long Should You Let Your Baby Cry For?
Now onto the main event- exactly how long should you wait before going back in after putting your babe down? According to Dr. Harvey Karp, author of "The Happiest Baby on the Block," parents should give their babies ten minutes before intervening during daytime naps if they are under six months old.
Once they reach six months old or older than that then twenty minutes should be given before stepping up once again according to an article published by Wallasmouth University journal . However as per Johanna Searlsby ,a clinical psychologist “ Every toddler has its own resistance level,a 20 minute rule might not work ,Parents need use discretion depending on what works best based on individual toddler’s temperament“. So while there isn't a hard and fast rule regarding time limits; these guidelines could help provide structure for those who need it.
Why the Time Limit?
You may be wondering - why give a timeframe at all? The truth is that infants usually transition between two stages of sleep cry periods during development. Many younger babies may wake up crying after sleeping for approximately one sleep cycle and then struggle to fall back asleep. If you immediately intervene as soon as they start hollering, They won't learn how to soothe themselves back to sleep on their own but if you let them continue crying without comfort by ignoring possible hunger or diaper changes then your baby is bound to become even more agitated (and guess what, so will you).
With the help of time intervals between checks parents remain in control when performing Cry It Out method . This way, you can ensure that your baby is not left unattended with “all hope lost” in case an intervention was needed.
Tips for Implementing Cry It Out
While there isn't a definitive guide on exactly how long to let your babe cry before intervening, there are some general tips and protocols experts recommend: - Stick with it: We know listening to your little one bawl their eyes out can be difficult, but consistency is key here. - Pick a designated naptime routine: By putting together a specific ritual for naps ,you're creating structure in baby's life which helps promote healthy patterns - Consider alternative approaches: Not every family or child responds well to this technique; other soothing methods might work better depending individual differences . - Approach bedtime differently than naptime: Your end-of-day routine and process could differ from daytime napping strategies; adjustments around sleeping habits follow natural paths caused by biochemistry factors (Side note: We did not proofread this last bullet point because we were too busy taking our own advice about getting enough zzz's.)
When Not To Use The Cry It Out Method
As effective as the cry-it-out method could be, there may be instances when it is not suitable for your little one. Here are some scenarios where you might want to avoid using this technique: - If your child has medical conditions that could lead to respiratory problems following prolonged crying - If your baby hasn't been fed well enough or diaper changed before nap time , which will make them extremely uncomfortable. - For families practicing attachment parenting: Cry-it-out method could go against principles of bonding and attachments.
In Conclusion
While the cry-it-out method can still be a bit controversial amongst parents, having an idea on how long you should wait between checks while performing it so that most optimal results are achieved makes everything more objective.There isn't a hard and fast rule regarding timing but providing structure within personal comfort levels can help soothe both baby and parent alike. Remember, every infant is different,and each family's needs are unique.To do "Cry It out" successfully consider creating specific routines around naps ,testing intervals between supervision checks based on their temperament along with ensuring all basic needs attended beforehand .Now sit back and embrace those peaceful moments while they last!