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As a parent, you’ve likely heard the phrase, “They’ll sleep eventually!” But when you’re up for the fourth time in one night, that advice doesn’t feel very reassuring. Many parents wonder when their baby will start sleeping for longer stretches—or even a full night’s rest.
If you’ve asked yourself, “How will I know when my baby is ready to sleep through the night?” or “When can I start sleep training?”—you’re not alone. The answers aren’t always one-size-fits-all, but there are developmental milestones that can help guide you.
In this blog, we’ll cover common questions about sleep training and sleeping through the night, how to recognize the signs of readiness, and what steps to take to create a smooth transition for your baby.
Sleep Training vs. Sleeping Through the Night: What’s the Difference?
Many parents use these terms interchangeably, but they refer to different aspects of your baby’s sleep journey:
Sleep Training: A process that teaches your baby to fall asleep independently, often using a consistent method that helps them self-soothe instead of relying on rocking, feeding, or other external aids. The goal is to help babies connect their sleep cycles without needing parental intervention every time they wake up.
Sleeping Through the Night: This means your baby can sleep for an extended, uninterrupted stretch. The definition varies by age—young infants might manage 5–6 hours, while older babies can eventually sleep 10–12 hours without waking for feeds.
While sleep training can support sleeping through the night, it doesn’t guarantee it immediately. Some babies naturally extend their sleep without formal sleep training, while others need a bit more guidance.
Signs Your Baby May Be Ready to Sleep Through the Night
Not every baby follows the same timeline, but there are key indicators that suggest your baby could be ready for longer nighttime stretches:
Consistent Weight Gain – If your baby is feeding well during the day and their weight gain is steady, they may not need night feeds as frequently. Always check with your pediatrician before making changes.
Predictable Feeding Schedule – Babies with structured daytime feeds are more likely to drop night feeds and consolidate sleep.
Longer Sleep Stretches Already Happening – If your baby naturally sleeps for 4–5 hour blocks, they may be moving toward readiness.
Self-Soothing Skills – Signs like sucking on fingers or settling themselves briefly in the crib indicate growing independence in sleep.
Reduced Night Feedings – If your baby is eating less at night and making up for it during the day, they may be capable of longer sleep stretches.
When Can You Start Sleep Training?
While there’s no universal “perfect” age, many babies are developmentally ready for sleep training between 4 and 6 months. Here’s why:
Physical Development – Most babies at this stage are growing well and capable of sustaining longer sleep periods.
Mature Sleep Cycles – Around 4 months, babies’ sleep patterns shift to resemble adult cycles, making it a great time to introduce independent sleep skills.
Behavioral Readiness – Babies at this age can adapt to gentle sleep training methods and begin learning consistent sleep routines.
However, sleep training readiness varies by baby. Some may be ready earlier, while others need more time. There’s no rush—trust your baby’s cues!
Preparing for Sleep Training: Steps to Take
Before diving into sleep training, setting the stage can help create a smoother process:
1. Establish a Predictable Bedtime Routine
Babies thrive on consistency. A bedtime routine signals that sleep is coming, helping them wind down. A simple routine might include:
Bath time
Gentle massage
Feeding
Storytime or lullabies
Placing your baby in the crib drowsy but awake
2. Optimize the Sleep Environment
Creating a sleep-friendly space can make a big difference:
Dark Room – Use blackout curtains to keep the room dim.
White Noise – A sound machine can help block out household noise and mimic the noise your baby heard while in the womb.
Cool & Comfortable Temperature – Aim for 68–72°F to prevent overheating.
3. Maintain Consistent Daytime Routines
A well-structured daytime schedule with predictable nap and feeding times helps regulate your baby’s internal clock. A baby who sleeps well during the day is often a better sleeper at night.
4. Ensure Age-Appropriate Daytime Sleep
An overtired baby will struggle with sleep training, while an under-tired baby may resist bedtime. Adjust naps as needed to find the right balance. If you're unsure what daily schedule your baby should be on, grab my free Wake Window and Sleep Schedule Guide here.
What If My Baby Still Wakes Frequently at Night?
Frequent night wakings can stem from a variety of factors:
Hunger – If your baby is still young, night feeds may be necessary. Gradual reduction can help transition away from them.
Sleep Regressions – Developmental leaps, like learning to roll or crawl, can temporarily disrupt sleep. Stick to routines and offer comfort as needed.
Sleep Associations – If your baby depends on rocking, feeding, or another aid to fall asleep, when they wake up during the night, they will be expecting the same conditions. Gradual changes can help foster independent sleep.
Routine Adjustments – Sometimes, tweaking nap times or bedtime by 15–20 minutes can make a difference in nighttime sleep quality.
Final Thoughts
Every baby’s sleep journey is unique. Recognizing when your baby is ready to sleep through the night or start sleep training can bring relief, but there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The key is to follow your baby’s cues, remain consistent, and be patient with the process.
If you’re feeling unsure or need guidance, I’m here to help. Let’s create a personalized sleep plan that works for your little one—and gets you the restful nights you deserve!
Book a free sleep assessment call here to talk or check out my sleep packages here if you're ready to get help!
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