One of the most controversial but nevertheless very effective methods in sleep training is ‘control crying’. The method demands a lot of patience, perseverance and a strong heart. No, it is not cruel nor it harms the baby. In fact, more and more parents are finding out that it might just be the most effective method.
What is it?
Control crying is a method in which the parents deliberately let the baby cry for a few minutes before soothing them. It might seem inhumane but the process doesn’t ask, not to attend the baby. Actually, it depends on the parents on how long they can allow the baby to cry before taking care of them. Parents have to keep a very fine balance between attending and neglecting a weeping child. The method was developed taking into account the reality that the only way for the babies to demand attention is to cry.
Naturally, this is the only way a baby would be able to express its emotions. Every time the baby is lulled, they learn that being lulled is the effective method of getting attention. Every time they cry, parents rush to their side not knowing that among its natural tendency the baby is also learning that crying makes to get much care. The only problem is that the infant psychologically develops a need for crying even if it feels a little irritable. Parents who try the ‘control crying’ method just teach the baby that sometimes it is better to go to sleep, even if you are a little irritated.
Is it really effective?
Many parents conceive this idea as a last resort to all the other techniques. Anyway, they have nothing to loose from experimenting for a day or two. Again, it depends on the family if they want to try this method and the amount of time they want to ignore the baby’s pleads. Those who have been successful in benefiting form these techniques have reported instant results within a week or so. Before you try, remember that the technique only applies to babies over 6 months old. Good luck...
