Debunking Baby Sleep Myths Every New Sleep Consultant Should Know
As a new baby sleep consultant, you’re likely to hear a LOT of suspicious information that will keep you side-eyeing your screen. Every source online has a different piece of advice – and most of them contradict each other. There are all kinds of myths out there about babies and sleep that manage to both instill unreasonable expectations and leave you with plenty of sleep-deprived anxiety. So, as a pediatric sleep consultant (and a Registered Nurse!) who has helped thousands of families, I’m here to clear it up by debunking baby sleep myths.
Baby Sleep Myth 1: “Babies Should Sleep Through the Night”
Most of your sleep consulting clients will be desperate for their baby to sleep through the night. Some would even be grateful for just a few consecutive hours of rest. But is it realistic to expect a baby to sleep 12 hours straight without interruption?
The Reality of Infant Sleep
Neither infants nor adults sleep through the entire night without waking. In fact, babies wake anywhere between 2- 8 times a night. These brief, light wakings are natural and serve as a protective mechanism against SIDS. The challenge comes when a baby cannot soothe themselves back to sleep after waking, causing stress for both baby and parents. This is where sleep training becomes crucial. As a sleep consultant, your role is to guide parents in managing these wakings, helping their baby develop healthy sleep habits.
Myth 2: “Keeping Babies Awake Longer Helps Them Sleep Better at Night”
A tired baby means high odds of a “good” night’s sleep, right? Wrong. That baby needs a nap, trust me.
The Importance of Regular Sleep Schedules
Babies, just like all of us, need consistency. Skipping or shortening naps can backfire, leading to an overtired baby who is often harder to soothe and even MORE restless at night. Regular naps in a consistent environment = happier nights for everyone.
Myth 3: “The More You Hold the Baby, the More They’ll Rely on It for Sleep”
I’m not sure where exactly this myth comes from, but please tell your clients to go ahead and get that cuddle time in. There is no correlation between loving on a baby and them not being able to sleep. In fact, insuring that the parents cuddle with their baby gives them a sense of security that HELPS healthy rest.
The Power of Attachment
Babies who experience responsive care, including being held, are linked to developing better sleep habits. A parent’s touch can lower stress hormones and regulate their body temperature, meaning calmer, deeper sleep.
Myth 4: “Sleep Training Always Means Letting Your Baby Cry It Out”
This blanket statement couldn’t be further from the truth. Yes, “Cry It Out” (CIO) is a sleep training methodology, but it’s not the only—nor the best—option for all parents or babies.
A Menu of Methods for Sleep Training
Sleep training is about gently coaching your client’s baby to fall asleep independently, and it’s essential to get to know your clients and find which method fits them. There’s a buffet of approaches from more gradual “fade” methods to a “no-tears” policy that involves presence without interventions. Each method can be tailored to the client and the baby’s temperament, ensuring a personalized and gentle approach. Check out my Sleep Training courses here!
Myth 5: “You Can Never Spoil a Baby With Too Much Attention”
This bit of advice has been oversimplified. While babies do need a great deal of love and attention, there is a line between attentive care and accidentally reinforcing negative behavior.
Balancing Attention
Babies are hardwired to seek comfort and stimulation—they don’t manipulate or “schedule” their needs. It’s important to teach parents to engage with their little one, but also gently encourage self-soothing and independent play.
Let’s Debunk More Baby Sleep Myths
I’ve seen and heard it ALL as a baby sleep consultant. While I know debunking these myths isn’t going to transform a nursery overnight, but it does equip you with realistic expectations and valuable knowledge as you set out on your career as a baby sleep consultant.
If you’re interested in learning more facts and research about pediatric sleep, take a look at our Sleep Consultant Certification.
Here’s what is included in the Sleep Consultant Program:
- Flexible Coursework. Our programs are 100% online and self-paced. Work through the curriculum anytime from anywhere.
- Proven Track Record. Since 2014, more than 1100 students have taken our rewarding courses and programs.
- Qualified Faculty. Our instructors have the credentials, education and real-world experience needed to help you consult with confidence.
- Supportive Community. Your tuition includes access to a community of IPSP-trained consultants. Ask questions, share resources, and discuss trends.
- Lifetime Certification. Unlike most programs, IPSP doesn’t charge annual recertification fees.
- Instant Marketing. Jumpstart your business with a profile on the IPSP website and in-house referral opportunities.
- Hand-On Director. Our founder and lead instructor is only an email, phone call, or text away – every day of the week.
- Affordable Tuition. Payment plans make it easier for you to achieve your goal without breaking the bank. It’s premier education without the price tag.
After you get your certification, you’ll be on your way to debunking baby sleep myths for families in need!