The cry-it-out method is a famous method known in the parenting world as a technique to train young kids to go to sleep and stay asleep by themselves.
This method includes letting babies cry out at night without any intervention from you until they can calm down on their own.
The cry-it-out method in sleep training can look different for different parents and cultures. This could look like locking the babies in their room and letting them cry themselves until they fall asleep from exhaustion.
However, this could also be parents checking in with their baby if needed, but only a few times.
When To Start Sleep Training and CIO?
It is advisable to start a baby's sleep training with the cry-it-out method at six months. This is because of the baby's development when it hits the six-month mark. The baby's circadian rhythms become more consistent and more aligned, just as adults do.
Another reason is that at that age, babies who are growing at a normal rate will not feel the need to eat overnight anymore.
In the process of practicing these sleep techniques, it is also important for both parents to be prepared when embarking on their journey. The best time to start sleep training is when you and your baby are both prepared to do it.
Pros of Cry-It-Out Method
Advocating Independence: An advantage of CIO is helping babies become more independent and self-reliant and less dependent on parental presence for them to fall asleep.
Consistency: Another benefit of practicing the cry-it-out method is the consistency and predictability of the sleep patterns that children will get used to.
More Free Time: To be successfully implementing the CIO means more time for parents to rest, do housework, and care for themselves. Parenting is a challenging ride, and having the whole night to yourself can make a difference in your mental and physical health.
Cons of Cry-It-Out Method
Feeling of Neglect: Crying is one of the loudest forms of communication babies know. Crying also means severe discomfort. They could also be in need of something that must be met, hence the loud cry. Not picking up your baby might embed in them the idea that they are neglected.
Emotional Stress: The prolonged crying by the baby brought on by this sleep training method could potentially affect their trust and attachment to caregivers.
Ineffectiveness: It is possible that your baby might not react very well to this sleep training method. Each child is unique and has different needs, which is why this method might not be suitable for every family or child.
Balancing Cry-It-Out with Alternative Sleep Techniques
While the Cry It Out method may work for some families, it's important to explore alternative sleep training approaches. Here are some options to consider:
Gradual Sleep Training: This method involves gradually reducing parental involvement in helping your baby fall asleep. It provides a gentler approach, allowing your child to adapt at their own pace.
No Tears Methods: Techniques like the "No Tears" approach focus on minimizing distress and promoting a soothing bedtime routine, which can be a preferable option for parents who are uncomfortable with the idea of letting their baby cry.
Co-Sleeping: Depending on the age and size of the baby, in many cultures, co-sleeping for some families works very well. This is a good way to give yourself the sleep that you need and give your baby easy access to food when they get hungry at night.
Furthermore, if you notice your baby exhausted and extremely worked up from the crying. Some babies also spit and throw up during this process from all the crying.
If this happens, it might be a sign that the cry-it-out method as a form of sleep training is not the best technique for them. You can always consult your pediatrician if your baby is not having good results from the sleep techniques you have tried with them.
Lastly, know that the sleepless days and feeds are numbered and will not last forever. And you will soon be able to get the rest and evening sleep you have temporarily lost on this journey.
