Getting your baby to sleep well is a common challenge for parents. Amber Lim, a trained expert in infant sleep, answers common questions to help families navigate sleep problems and establish healthy sleeping habits for their little ones. See the thread for full conversations.
Q: How do you sleep train a baby?
Amber Lim: Sleep training depends on the baby’s age and family needs. It is not recommended for babies under 4 months old. If your baby is older than 4 months and healthy, you can consider controlled crying, an evidence-based method to improve sleep.
Sleep training can be an emotional journey, as it’s closely tied to the quality of sleep your baby—and you—get. Seek support and alignment with caregivers to ensure you feel confident and supported during the process.
Q: How can we sleep train a 5-month-old?
Amber Lim: Start by establishing a consistent routine to regulate your baby’s biological clock.
- Ensure plenty of daylight and stimulation during the day.
- Create a calming bedtime routine and maintain it nightly.
- Put your baby to bed before they fall asleep to teach them to self-soothe.
Remember, sleep training can feel emotional, so seek support from caregivers or professionals if needed.
Q: What is the best sleep environment for babies?
Amber Lim: A quiet, dim room with a comfortable temperature (around 25°C) is ideal for baby sleep.
Q: Should I wake my baby to eat?
Amber Lim: This depends on your baby’s age and health. If you’re concerned about growth, consult a paediatrician for guidance.
Q: How do I know if my baby has a sleep disorder?
Amber Lim: Watch for these symptoms:
- Snoring or irregular breathing during sleep
- Frequent awakenings that are unusual for their age
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Impaired daytime functioning, such as extreme irritability or fussiness
If you observe these signs, consult a professional trained in infant sleep for an assessment.
Q: My 9-month-old keeps waking during naps and struggles to sleep. Could it be a growth spurt?
Amber Lim: Yes, sleep regression during growth spurts is common and temporary. Maintaining a consistent routine can help your baby settle back into a normal sleep pattern. If the issue persists, seek professional advice to develop a tailored plan.
Q: Does sleep regression happen to all babies?
Amber Lim: Not all babies experience sleep regressions, but it’s a normal part of development for many. Triggers include teething, illness, growth spurts, and learning new skills.
Q: How much sleep does my 3-month-old need?
Amber Lim: On average, a 3-month-old needs 14–17 hours of sleep daily, though individual needs can range from 11–19 hours. Sleepiness after feeding is normal, but consult a paediatrician if you have concerns about development.
Q: My baby cries when I put her in a cot. Should she sleep with me instead?
Amber Lim: For safety, it’s recommended that babies sleep in their own beds to reduce the risk of SIDS. If transitioning to a cot is difficult, seek guidance to train your baby to sleep independently.
Q: My baby only sleeps during latching. How can I change this habit?
Amber Lim: Your baby may have developed an association between breastfeeding and sleep. Gradually introduce new sleep associations like a specific toy or swaddle. Wake her up after she falls asleep during latching, then help her settle in her bed. Consistency and patience are key, as this adjustment takes time.
Q: My 14-month-old sleeps 12 hours at night but refuses daytime naps. What can I do?
Amber Lim: While total sleep seems normal, you can experiment with a napping schedule to encourage daytime rest. Alternatively, consider a bedtime fading strategy to adjust sleep patterns. This evidence-based method builds sufficient sleep pressure for naps.
About Amber Lim
Amber Lim is a Clinical Psychologist at Reconnect Psychology and Family Therapy. With a passion for helping families, Amber specializes in guiding parents through family challenges, offering compassionate and effective solutions.
Final Thoughts
Managing your baby’s sleep requires patience, consistency, and sometimes professional guidance. By creating a soothing environment and establishing routines, you can support your baby’s restful sleep and overall development.
