Getting them to sleep through the night is one thing, but managing not to disturb the pattern is another. Tracey Ruiz, a.k.a The Sleep Doula, explains how we can make sure we don't ruin all our hard work...
My child is finally sleeping through the night after being sleep trained. At what point is it OK to go back into the room again? What happens when my little one is sick?
Congratulations on teaching your child a great life skill, and I hope you are enjoying some well-deserved rest!
While it is key to remain consistent, especially during the first 14 days of implementing your new sleep plan, you should still listen to and trust your instinct. If you're concerned, check on your little ones to ensure their safety. Upon entering the room, assess the situation and your child to see if there is anything that is causing sleep disturbance. For example, a leaky diaper, sickness, etc. If all is well, tell your child that they are fine and you love them, and return to your bed.
If your child is sick, do treat the element but try to remain as consistent as possible with your usual methods. For example, if your child has a cold and you are concerned about their breathing, sleep in their room -- but DO NOT bring them into yours. If you have to abandon your new sleep habits because of a serious illness, get back on track immediately when your child is healthy again.
Other causes of a change in sleep pattern are: change of routine, new motor development skills, dreams, immunizations, an exciting day, etc. In these situations, offer a little reassurance but remain as consistent as possible. You can't expect your child to be consistent if you aren't. But remember the more times you sleep train the harder it will get each time.
Tracey Ruiz a.k.a. The Sleep Doula, is Canada's preeminent sleep training consultant for babies, toddlers and children 0-7. Working in the trenches with thousands of families over the last nine years, Tracey has seen it all. For more information, visit www.sleepdoula.com.
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