In this episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, Caroline and Jenn dive deep into infant sleep patterns, co-sleeping, and sleep training. They explain the science behind infant sleep cycles, why it's normal for newborns to not sleep through the night, and address the emotional toll of sleep deprivation on parents. Through personal stories, they also share practical tips for establishing bedtime routines, sleep training, and creating a safe environment for co-sleeping. Ultimately, every child is different and we want to encourage you to trust your instincts, avoid the pressures of social media, and find solutions that fit your unique needs.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. Every Child is Different: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to sleep for children. Each family situation and child is unique. What works for one may not work for another. Resist the urge to compare yourself to friends or social media influencers. You know your family and child better than anyone.
2. Co-Sleeping: Co-sleeping is a fairly common and safe practice but may require a few changes to your sleeping environment. For the safety of your baby, we recommend ensuring the sleeping environment is free of soft bedding, pillows, toys, and your baby sleeps on their back. When co-sleeping, parents should avoid drinking alcohol or smoking. (See below for two downloadable PDFs with more information about safe co-sleeping).
3. Sleep Training: Around 3-4 months of age, your baby will begin to show clear signs of tiredness and can learn to self-soothe. We recommend beginning to sleep train at this age because they are more docile to this new routine. We've had success using the Ferber Method to gently help our children learn to stop crying and fall asleep independently. Remember, each child is different, and what works for one, may not work for another. Trust your instincts and adapt your approach based on your child's needs and family dynamics.

Resources:

• The book Sweet Sleep
• Bedsharing and Breastfeeding downloadable PDF
• 7 Smart Steps to Safer Bedsharing downloadable PDF

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

02:13 - General Infant Sleep Guidelines

04:16 - Safe Co-Sleeping Practices

07:49 - Intro to Sleep Training

13:18 - Challenges and Guilt

26:43 - Sleep Regressions, Boundaries, and Napping

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

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