As a physician observing the complexities of parenting, I’ve seen that the “cry-it-out” (CIO) method can be a controversial topic. Parents are often inundated with conflicting advice, and it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed by the myriad of approaches to raising children. From co-sleeping and breastfeeding to the strictest attachment parenting, the choices can be exhausting. It’s clear that no matter what strategy you choose, someone will surely question it.
When I became a parent a decade ago, the landscape of parenting advice was different, but I still faced my own set of challenges. I can only imagine how new parents today navigate the sea of information, often with fear of judgment hanging over their heads. My own experience with CIO stemmed from a desperate need for sleep. My son, much like a lively party host, appeared convinced that 3 a.m. was the perfect time to celebrate.
Researching various sleep training methods led me to CIO, which involves allowing a baby to cry for a measured time before checking in. The goal is for them to learn to self-soothe and eventually fall asleep independently. We began this approach with my first child around eight months and slightly earlier with my second. After ensuring they were fed, dry, and comfortable, we laid them down while they were still awake, leading to some initial distress.
The first couple of nights were particularly grueling. I found it emotionally challenging to let my children cry, and my instincts screamed for me to comfort them immediately. Holding my phone like a lifeline, I counted down the seconds until I could go in and offer a soothing touch. Those nights felt interminable, yet I clung to the belief that I was offering my children the invaluable skill of self-soothing.
Miraculously, by the third or fourth night, we witnessed a significant transformation. They began sleeping soundly, waking up refreshed and ready to greet the day. Although there were minor setbacks, both children developed excellent sleep habits, allowing us all to enjoy restful nights. Contrary to some of the harsher criticisms of CIO, my kids are thriving—well-adjusted, intelligent, and empathetic individuals.
For parents considering this method, it’s important to remember that CIO is not about neglecting a hungry newborn. The focus is on creating healthy sleep patterns. If you find yourself in the trenches of sleepless nights, know that you’re not a bad parent. You’re simply seeking a bit of peace in a chaotic world. If you’re looking for information on fertility treatments and home insemination, I recommend checking out this excellent resource.
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In summary, while CIO may not be for everyone, it worked wonders for my family. We all deserve sleep, and my children are living proof that it can lead to positive outcomes.