This was a popular topic within the Smart Parenting Blog Team, as one of us has a 8 year old daughter who still really really doesn’t want to go to bed, ever. Under no circumstances will she just go and enjoy being in her bed. Especially for our fellow team member, we deep dived into this topic. We have broadened it to include babies and older children too.

Sleep training methods for difficult sleepers can be challenging to implement, but there are several approaches that can be effective. Here are some key differences in sleep training methods for difficult sleepers:

1. Ferber Method: This method involves putting the baby down for bed even if they are crying, and gradually increasing the time between check-ins. This method can be effective for difficult sleepers, but it may take longer to see results.
2. Chair Method: This method involves sitting in a chair next to the baby’s crib until they fall asleep, then gradually moving the chair further away. This method can be effective for difficult sleepers, but it may require more patience and consistency.
3. Fading Method: This method involves gradually reducing the amount of time spent soothing the baby before putting them to bed. This method can be effective for difficult sleepers, but it may take longer to see results.
4. Pick-Up/Put-Down Method: This method involves picking up the baby when they cry, soothing them, and then putting them back down. This method can be effective for difficult sleepers, but it may require more time and effort.
5. Cry-It-Out Method: This method involves leaving the baby to cry until they fall asleep, without intervening. This method can be effective for difficult sleepers, but it may be more challenging for parents who are not comfortable with their child crying.
6. Respectful Sleep Training: This method involves creating a secure attachment with the child, responding to their cues, and helping guide them back to sleep. This method can be effective for difficult sleepers, but it may require more time and effort.
7. Customized Sleep Training: This method involves working with a sleep trainer or consultant to create a customized sleep training plan that is tailored to the child’s needs and the parents’ preferences. This method can be effective for difficult sleepers, but it may require more time and effort.

Key Considerations for Difficult Sleepers

Consistency is key when it comes to sleep training. It is essential to establish a consistent bedtime routine and stick to it, even on weekends or during vacations.
Sleep training can be a challenging process, especially for difficult sleepers. It is essential to be patient and not give up, even if progress is slow. Flexibility is essential when it comes to sleep training. Be prepared to adjust your approach if it is not working, and be open to trying different methods. Communication is crucial when it comes to sleep training. Make sure to communicate with your partner, family members, and caregivers about your sleep training approach and any challenges you are facing. Make sure to have a support system in place, whether it is a partner, family member, or friend, to help you through the process.

Conclusion

Sleep training methods for difficult sleepers can be challenging to implement, but there are several approaches that can be effective. By understanding the different methods and considering the key considerations, parents can find a sleep training approach that works for their child and their family.

We hope it helps,

The Smart Parenting Blog Team