The 5 Biggest Myths About Baby and Child Sleep (and What Actually Works)

Sleep is essential for your little one’s growth and development, yet it’s an area where so many parents face confusion and stress. As an international sleep consultant, I’ve heard it all—the well-meaning advice, the old wives’ tales, and the outright myths that can leave parents feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. Let’s bust five of the most common myths about baby and child sleep and uncover what actually works.

**Myth 1: "You Should Let Your Baby Cry It Out or They’ll Never Learn to Sleep."

Crying it out (CIO) is one of the most debated sleep methods. While some families find it works for them, it’s not the only option. There are gentler, responsive sleep strategies that can teach your baby to self-settle without prolonged distress. Every child is unique, and finding a method that aligns with your parenting style and your child’s temperament is key.

What works: Start with small, consistent changes to your bedtime routine, and provide reassurance as needed. Gradual approaches, like spaced soothing or chair methods, can help your child build confidence in their ability to fall asleep independently.

**Myth 2: "Keeping Your Baby Awake Longer Will Help Them Sleep Better at Night."

This myth often leads to overtired little ones and frustrated parents. When children stay awake too long, they can become overtired, which actually makes it harder for them to fall asleep and stay asleep.

What works: Pay attention to your baby’s wake windows—the amount of time they can be awake before becoming overtired. A consistent nap schedule and bedtime routine will help regulate their sleep patterns and lead to better nights.

**Myth 3: "Bedtime Should Always Be at 7 PM."

While a 7 PM bedtime is common advice, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Your child’s ideal bedtime depends on their age, daily schedule, and natural sleep needs.

What works: Focus on total sleep needs over 24 hours and look for signs of sleep readiness. Whether it’s 6:30 PM or 8 PM, a bedtime that aligns with your child’s natural rhythm will lead to better sleep quality.

**Myth 4: "If Your Child Wakes at Night, It’s Always Due to Hunger."

While newborns wake frequently for feeds, older babies and toddlers may wake for other reasons, such as discomfort, overtiredness, or a sleep association they’ve come to rely on.

What works: Evaluate the root cause of night wakings. If your child is over six months old and gaining weight well, they may not need night feeds. Gradual weaning or addressing sleep associations can help reduce unnecessary wakings.

**Myth 5: "Co-Sleeping Will Always Create Bad Habits."

Co-sleeping is a personal choice and can work beautifully for some families when done safely. The idea that it will always lead to bad habits isn’t true—it’s about finding what works for you.

What works: If co-sleeping isn’t your long-term goal, transition your child to independent sleep gently. Start by introducing their sleep space gradually, while still offering comfort and reassurance.

Final Thoughts

Every family’s sleep journey is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. By debunking these myths and focusing on what actually works, you can create healthy, sustainable sleep habits that support your child’s development and your family’s well-being.

If you’re feeling stuck or need tailored support, get in touch! Let’s work together to find a solution that works for your family and gets everyone sleeping soundly.