Fading Method
The fading method is a less intensive approach to sleep training compared to the cry it out method. The main objective of this method is to teach the baby how to soothe themselves rather than leaving them to figure it out on their own. There are two ways to implement the fading method.
Option one is known as “camping out,” where the parent sits next to the crib until the baby falls asleep. Gradually, each night, the parent moves the chair farther away from the crib until they can eventually leave the room entirely. This gradual distancing helps the baby become more independent in falling asleep without assistance.
The second option is timed check-ins. In this approach, the parent puts the baby to bed and then leaves the room. However, they return every five minutes or so to briefly reassure the baby. These intermittent check-ins provide comfort and reassurance to the baby, while still encouraging them to learn to fall asleep on their own.
The Gentle Approach
For parents who prefer a more gentle approach to sleep training, the no-cry method provides an alternative to the cry it out method. One well-known proponent of this approach is Dr. William Sears, who emphasizes a child-centered approach that involves soothing techniques such as rocking and nursing your baby to sleep, as well as co-sleeping.
According to Dr. Sears, physical closeness during sleep time creates positive associations with sleep and can contribute to the development of healthier sleep habits as the child grows.