When Is the Best Time to Start Sleep Training?

Jul 15, 2025

If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re tired. Not just a little tired bone-deep exhausted from nights that feel endless, naps that don’t happen, and mornings that blur into afternoons. You’re wondering if it’s too early, too late, or if your baby is even ready.

As a certified pediatric sleep consultant, let me give you a clear, evidence-based answer. The best time to start sleep training is when your baby is ready not just physically, but developmentally and emotionally. And yes, there are signs that can guide you.

Let’s break it down.

What Is Sleep Training, Really?

Sleep training means helping your baby learn how to fall asleep independently and connect sleep cycles without needing to be rocked, fed, or held back to sleep every time they wake up. It’s not about letting them cry endlessly. It’s about guiding them toward independent sleep in a way that supports your parenting style and respects their age and development.

When Is the Right Time to Begin?

Most babies are developmentally ready for formal sleep training between 5 to 6 months of age. By this time, their sleep cycles have matured, circadian rhythms have started to regulate, and they’re capable of sleeping for longer stretches at night.

However, “sleep training” isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision based on age alone. Here’s how to evaluate readiness.

1. 5 to 6 Months: The sweet spot

Most babies are developmentally ready for sleep training during this period. They no longer need to be fed every 2 hours, they’re capable of self-soothing, and they’re more receptive to predictable routines.

At this age, I work closely with parents to choose the right method based on their comfort level and their baby’s temperament. Whether it’s Pick Up Put Down, Chair Method, or Leave and Check, the key is consistency and support.

2. 7 to 12 Months: Still a great time

It’s never “too late” to start. Many families I work with begin at 8 or 9 months once things become truly unmanageable. Babies at this age may protest more initially due to increased awareness and attachment, but they are also quick learners when supported well.

The chair method often works well for this age group, especially if your baby has been co-sleeping or bedsharing.

3. Toddlers (12 Months to 4 Years): Sleep training is still possible

With toddlers, sleep issues may look different. You might be dealing with bedtime battles, night wakings, early rising, or needing a parent to lie beside them. At this age, the chair method is the most effective approach because it provides calm presence while teaching boundaries.

Leave and Check is usually not recommended beyond age 2 as it can be too stimulating. A predictable routine, clear communication, and consistency are critical here.

What If I Missed the "Ideal Time"?

You haven’t. There is no expiration date on sleep training. The methods may vary depending on age and temperament, but it’s never too late to teach your child how to sleep well. I’ve worked with babies as young as 4 months and toddlers as old as 4 years. And the results are real.

Signs Your Baby Might Be Ready for Sleep Training

They are at least 5 months old and gaining weight well
Night wakings are frequent and not always linked to hunger
They rely on rocking, feeding, or patting to fall asleep
Daytime naps are short or unpredictable
You feel exhausted and inconsistent in your response

If these sound familiar, it’s a signnot of failure, but of readiness. You and your baby deserve restful sleep.

My Personal Story

When my daughter was 6 months old, I hit a breaking point. She was waking every hour, and I was barely functioning. I started sleep training using responsive methods and within a few nights, she was sleeping in long stretches. Today, two years later, she still falls asleep independently and sleeps through the night. We are deeply bonded and I’m able to show up for her as the mother I always wanted to be.

Ready to Begin?

If you’re wondering when the best time is to start sleep training, the answer is: when your baby is ready and you are ready. And if that time is now, you don’t have to do it alone.

My infant sleep training program is designed to meet your baby where they are with responsive, non-CIO methods that support healthy sleep without compromising connection.