Worried About Crying It Out?
One of the most common concerns I hear from parents is, “Will sleep coaching involve letting my baby cry it-out?”
The short answer is no. I firmly reject the “cry-it-out” method. You don’t need to choose between your baby’s emotional well-being and healthy sleep habits.
My Gentle Sleep Coaching® method is all about creating a supportive, compassionate, and science-backed path to better sleep.
Why I Don’t Use the Cry-It-Out Method
The "cry-it-out" approach, also known as extinction sleep training, involves leaving a baby to cry until they eventually fall asleep. While some may claim it works, what’s actually happening is that the baby isn’t learning to self-soothe or develop proper sleep skills. Instead, they “crash out” from sheer exhaustion, which doesn’t build long-term, sustainable sleep habits.
At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I believe sleep coaching should never come at the cost of your child’s sense of security and trust in you.
The Gentle Sleep Coaching® method is rooted in behavioral science, sleep science, and attachment theory. These fields show us that children learn best when they feel safe and supported, which is why I offer a gradual, guilt-free process that allows your baby to develop independent sleep skills in a way that feels nurturing and respectful.
What Is Gentle Sleep Coaching®?
The Gentle Sleep Coaching® method is a gradual approach that provides your baby with physical and verbal reassurance as they learn to self-settle and self-soothe. Sometimes called the “Sleep Lady Shuffle,” it involves staying close to your child and providing comfort while allowing them to learn the skills they need to fall asleep independently.
You’ll never be asked to leave your baby alone to cry for long periods.
Instead, we’ll work together to set up an environment that encourages healthy sleep habits. I’ll guide you step by step on how to offer comfort and support while gradually helping your baby develop the ability to fall asleep on their own. This process honors your child’s emotional needs, giving them space to learn without feeling abandoned or distressed.
Why a Gentle Approach Works
The Gentle Sleep Coaching® method works because it’s personalized, gradual, and respects your child’s developmental stage. Here’s why it’s effective:
It’s Gradual
We move at your child’s pace, ensuring they feel secure throughout the process. You’ll be there every step of the way, offering comfort when needed.Supports Attachment
Sleep coaching shouldn’t undermine your bond with your child. My approach strengthens the connection between you and your baby by reinforcing that you’re there for them during this important learning phase.Science-Backed
The Gentle Sleep Coaching® method is grounded in proven research from behavioral science and sleep science. These fields tell us that babies thrive when they are gently guided and reassured as they learn new skills—whether that’s walking, talking, or sleeping!Customized to Your Family
No two children are the same, which is why I never use a one-size-fits-all approach. I take into account your child’s temperament, your family dynamics, and your parenting style to create a personalized sleep plan that works for your family.
What to Expect
Throughout the process, I’ll be by your side, providing daily live coaching calls and ongoing support to help you feel confident and calm as you guide your child toward better sleep. We’ll work together to ensure that every change is gradual and appropriate for your child’s needs. You’ll never feel pressured to rush, and you can always offer comfort when your baby needs it.
The beauty of Gentle Sleep Coaching® is that it teaches your child how to self-soothe and fall asleep independently without the stress and heartache of letting them “cry it out.” Instead, we create a positive sleep experience that supports both your child’s emotional well-being and your peace of mind.
No Need for Guilt—Only Growth
One of the greatest strengths of the Gentle Sleep Coaching® method is that it eliminates the guilt that often comes with other sleep training methods. You don’t have to choose between what’s best for your baby’s sleep and what’s best for their emotional development. With Gentle Sleep Coaching®, you can have both: a happy, well-rested baby and a family who feels supported and empowered.
If you’re ready to help your child sleep better without resorting to “cry-it-out,” let’s get started. I’m here to support you every step of the way on this gentle, compassionate journey toward better sleep for your entire family.
Ready to Sleep Again? Let’s Do This.
If you’re thinking, “Okay, I kinda-sorta-maybe want to try this, but I still have questions,”—that’s what I’m here for.
Let’s start with an easy first step, schedule a Sleep Strategy Session so me, you and your partner can have an 1 hr long zoom session so I can properly assess the sleep situation and determine if you need one-on-one sleep coaching support.
Let’s get your baby sleeping—and get YOU your sanity back.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
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