Sleep Training and Sickness

The Topic of “Sleep Training” can get a bit tricky discussing with parents. Finding the right “method” and when needed right sleep consultant for your family and your style is most important, but this a whole other blog post. There are times to put a pause or hold off on sleep training. Yes, establishing healthy sleep habits is often referred to as “life changing” and truly essential for your child’s growth and families overall well-being, but there are certain times, such as sickness that it is important to just take a pause. Below I will highlight signs it is right to take a pause and offer strategies to keep a good balance of healthy sleep habits and ensuring your child’s health is priority.

The Importance of Sleep Training (Because I will always talk about creating healthy sleep habits and the benefits on a family that is has)

Sleep training, or really independent sleep teaching, is a process that helps babies and young children learn to self-soothe, fall asleep independently, and stay asleep through the night. It can be a game-changer for parents, improving both the child’s sleep quality and the family’s overall well-being. However, it’s important to remember that sleep training is not a one-size-fits-all solution and should be adapted to your child’s individual needs.

When to Hit Pause

Recognizing when to stop or pause sleep training due to illness is crucial for your child’s well-being. One thing that you will never hear from a good sleep consultant it to never tend to your child when they NEED you. In fact, knowing your child has independent sleep skills helps tremendously to know that your child truly needs you vs. wanting you to rock them back to sleep!  Here are some situations in which it might be necessary:

1. Fever and Serious Illness: If your child is suffering from a fever, severe illness, or any condition that requires medical attention, it’s essential to prioritize their health over sleep training. Sick children need comfort, extra care, and sleep as needed to recover.
2. Medication and Discomfort: Some medications can cause drowsiness, while others can make a child more alert. In such cases, it’s best to adjust your sleep training routine to accommodate your child’s medication schedule and comfort needs.
3. Night Wakings Due to Illness: If your child’s illness causes them to wake up frequently during the night, it’s essential to provide comfort and support. Gradually, you can resume sleep training once they’re feeling better.
4. General Discomfort: Illness often leads to general discomfort, making it harder for your child to self-soothe. Your child may need more cuddles, extra attention, and a departure from your typical sleep training routines during these times.

Taking a pause during sleep training, there are some things you can do to help getting back on track a smooth transition. Consistency being the most important. Routines and schedules are something that can remain consistent while still providing the added comfort and snuggles to your sick babe.

1. Comfort and Care: added cuddles for naps, staying on top of meds, and hydration being most important.
2. Flexibility: Know that you may have to “roll” with it. Naps may be longer, baby may want an earlier bedtime, stick to a routine, but be flexible and give your baby what they want and need.
3. Communicate: If you’re working with a pediatrician or sleep consultant, communicate about your child’s illness and any adjustments needed in the sleep training plan. They can provide guidance tailored to your child’s specific situation.
4. Gradual Resumption: As your child’s health improves, gradually reintroduce sleep training techniques. Start by establishing a soothing bedtime routine and slowly working towards independent sleep.

I will always sing the benefits of sleep training! Actually, prior to my own training that was my go to advice for new parents. I would always tell them to work on healthy sleep habits from the start and sleep train their baby right at 4 months. My own kids prefer their own bed, over mine even when they are sick. Our last bug that rolled through our house, I was rocking our 2-year-old for bedtime and wanting to just cuddle her and wanted to really enjoy my baby cuddles and rock her to sleep. As she was getting drowsy, she lifted her head and pointed to her crib and told me she wanted her bed. She went to bed early, slept in a little later and took longer naps. Her awake windows were shorter to allow for more rest and we got through it. So whether your baby is a great independent sleeper or you are still working on sleep skills, sickness can throw a curve ball your way, but navigating it with patience and confidence will help your get through it and allow your child to get the rest they need to feel better soon!