When Is the Right Time to Sleep Train?
If you're wondering whether it's the right time to start sleep training your baby, you're not alone. This is one of the most common questions I get—and the answer isn’t always one-size-fits-all.
The truth is, the right time depends on your baby’s development, your goals, and how ready you feel as a parent. Let’s walk through what to consider before beginning and how to know when your family might be ready.
What Is Sleep Training, Exactly?
Sleep training is simply the process of helping your child learn how to fall asleep (and fall back asleep) on their own. That doesn’t always mean “cry it out”—there are a variety of gentle, responsive methods that support both your baby’s emotional needs and your sleep goals.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
When Is Your Baby Ready to Sleep Train?
Most babies are developmentally ready for sleep training somewhere between 4 to 6 months of age. At this stage, many little ones are capable of longer stretches of sleep and may no longer need to feed every few hours overnight.
Here are a few signs your baby might be ready:
They're at least 4 months old and gaining weight appropriately
You're getting a green light from your pediatrician
They're struggling to fall or stay asleep without help (rocking, feeding, bouncing, etc.)
Everyone is exhausted and routines feel unsustainable
When Are You Ready?
You, as the parent, are just as important in this equation. It’s okay if you’re not quite ready yet. Sleep training works best when:
You’re emotionally ready to stay consistent for at least a month
You have support (a partner, friend, or sleep consultant to guide you)
You’ve chosen a method that aligns with your values and comfort level
Remember: consistency matters more than the method itself.
What If It’s Not the Right Time?
If your baby is under 4 months or you’re just not ready to begin, that’s totally okay. There are still things you can do now to lay a healthy sleep foundation:
Practice age-appropriate wake windows
Create a calming bedtime routine
Encourage full feeds during the day
Offer naps in a dark, quiet space when possible
These simple steps help prepare your baby for longer stretches when the time is right.
Final Thoughts
There’s no perfect window or magic age—but when sleep (or the lack of it) starts affecting your well-being or your baby’s, it may be time to make a change. And you don’t have to do it alone.
👉 Click here to schedule a free discovery call so we can talk through your unique situation and find the right path forward for your family.
