What’s the first thing people say when you announce you’re expecting a baby? “You’ll never sleep again!” Maybe right after “Congratulations,” but still, myths about infant sleep are everywhere. Many parents feel like getting a good night’s sleep is impossible, but is that really true? Let’s break down the most common sleep myths and discuss what actually works to help your baby sleep better.
First Things First: Every Baby is Different
Before we dive in, remember: how you care for your baby is absolutely fine! This article covers strategies to encourage independent sleep habits, but if co-sleeping, rocking your baby to sleep, or feeding them on demand works for your family, that’s completely okay. If your baby was born prematurely, has health concerns, or is underweight, consult with your doctor about nighttime feeding needs.
Now, let’s tackle those sleep myths.
Sleep Myth #1: “You Won’t Get a Good Night’s Sleep for Five Years”
Yes, newborns wake frequently to eat—but that doesn’t mean you’ll be sleep-deprived forever. By 2-3 months, many babies can start developing healthy sleep habits. The key is to establish a bedtime routine early. Sleep training can begin as early as two weeks old by encouraging a predictable schedule.
Sleep Myth #2: “Infants Are Too Young for Sleep Training”
Many believe that sleep training can’t start until a baby is older, but the earlier you introduce good sleep habits, the better.
Tips to Start Sleep Training Early:
- Create a bedtime routine – Around one month, an appropriate bedtime is 9:00 PM. By 3-4 months, it can shift to 7:00 PM.
- Keep nighttime interactions calm and quiet – If your baby wakes up to eat, keep the room dark and avoid stimulating activities.
- Use a sound machine – White noise can create a soothing environment and block household noise.
- Separate feeding from bedtime – Feeding should happen before the bedtime routine, so your baby doesn’t associate eating with falling asleep.
Sleep Myth #3: “It’s Okay to Let Your Baby Fall Asleep in Your Arms”
While snuggling your baby is wonderful, consistently putting them down while they’re already asleep can create dependency. Teaching self-soothing is crucial.
How to Help Your Baby Self-Soothe:
- Put them down drowsy but awake – This teaches them to fall asleep independently.
- Watch for sleep cues – Rubbing eyes, yawning, and fussiness signal it’s time to start the bedtime routine.
- Encourage self-settling – Everyone wakes briefly at night. The goal is to help your baby go back to sleep without intervention.
Bonus Myth: “A Pacifier Will Help Your Baby Sleep Better”
Pacifiers can be soothing, but they can also become a sleep crutch. If your baby relies on a pacifier to sleep, they may wake up frequently when it falls out. While pacifiers can be helpful, they may lead to more disruptions in the long run.
Final Thoughts: Adapt Sleep Strategies to Fit Your Family
There’s no single “right” way to parent—your baby’s safety, health, and happiness come first. Implement sleep training strategies in a way that fits your lifestyle while soaking up those precious newborn moments.
A Note from the Author:
As a mom of three—including 10-month-old twins—I understand the importance of sleep! While I follow many of these sleep training strategies, I also embrace flexibility. Sometimes, I let my babies sleep in my bed or hold them for naps. Sleep training is valuable, but so is cherishing this fleeting stage of life. Find what works for you!
Need More Help?
Explore additional sleep strategies and sleep training programs [here]. If you need personalized guidance, contact us to find the right sleep solutions for your family!
