Choosing Your Approach: Understanding Different Philosophies on Helping Your Baby Learn to Self-Soothe

There’s More Than One Right Way

If you’ve felt overwhelmed by all the advice about “how” your baby should fall asleep, you’re not alone.

Some parents are told to sleep train at four months. Others are told to wait. Some co-sleep. Others use the crib from day one. Which one is right?

Truth is: it depends on your baby, your values, and your comfort level.

At Sleepy Little One, we don’t prescribe a single philosophy. Instead, we guide parents through the most common approaches—so you can make informed, confident choices.

Approach 1: Responsive + Routine-Based

This method uses consistent bedtime routines and age-appropriate wake windows. Parents respond to baby’s cries with calming reassurance while gently encouraging independent sleep.

• Great for families wanting structure with flexibility
• Helps baby build self-soothing through repetition
• Aligned with our course methods

Approach 2: Co-Regulation (Proximity-Based)

Babies sleep near or with parents (often in the same room or bed). Parents respond quickly to fussing, often nursing or holding to settle.

• Emphasizes emotional security and physical closeness
• Common in many non-Western cultures
• Must follow safe sleep guidelines if bed-sharing

Approach 3: Gradual Separation

Used in chair method or spaced comforting, this approach allows baby space to settle, while a caregiver offers support nearby or with timed check-ins.

• Good for babies 5–6 months and up
• Can reduce sleep associations over time
• May involve some protest crying

Approach 4: Extinction-Based

Baby is placed in crib awake, and parents do not respond to cries. While some sleep experts support this approach, it’s not part of the Sleepy Little One philosophy.

• May bring faster results, but often emotionally distressing
• We recommend gentler alternatives whenever possible

Choosing What Works for You

Here’s what matters most:

• Is the approach safe?
• Does it feel emotionally sustainable for you?
• Is your baby healthy and developmentally ready?
• Are you being consistent?

You don’t need to follow someone else’s plan perfectly. You just need one that works for your baby and your family.

Final Thought

You’re not choosing a label—you’re choosing a rhythm.

Whether you’re gently guiding your baby to sleep alone or snuggling them to sleep beside you, you’re doing something powerful: responding to your baby with love and intention.

And that’s what builds real sleep confidence—for both of you.