Understanding Sleep Training for Infants

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Sleep training is not a one-size-fits-all approach and is usually done to reduce night awakenings. It is important to consider the age and neurological maturity of the baby before starting sleep training. Typically recommended for babies above four months, as those below might not be ready. The cried out method, one of the debated approaches, involves letting a baby cry for specified intervals to learn self-soothing. It aims to teach babies to fall asleep independently without parental intervention during awakenings. Parents often opt for sleep training due to night awakenings rather than bedtime struggles, as it can be challenging when children develop object permanence and seek parental presence during night wakings.

Today Matt’s discussion with Dr. Craig Canapari continues, as they delve into the science behind sleep training. Together they cover what it is and when it may be an appropriate technique. Dr. Craig Canipari provides an overview of the different methods of sleep training - ranging from simple bedtime routines, to extinction (also known as cry it out) - as well as some of the historical context behind the technique, and also the controversies and alternatives. It is such a personal choice, and different people feel comfortable with different methods. Dr. Canipari also discusses time restricted eating for your infant, and the importance of considering the long-term effects of sleep deprivation on parents.

Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.

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Links for Dr. Canapari:

Book: https://a.co/d/07SDrVn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrCanapari

Web: sleek.bio/canapari

TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMemf3exT/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcanapari/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/CraigCanapariMd/