Understanding Baby and Toddler Sleep Associations
What is a Sleep Association?
A sleep association is a connection between a specific action, object, or environment and the ability to fall asleep. These conditions are what a child learns to need to fall asleep. Some examples are rocking, feeding/nursing to sleep, white noise, pacifiers, and contact/being held.
Are Sleep Associations Bad?
Listen, sleep associations can be good! However, they can be problematic if they are unsafe (e.g., bedsharing/cosleeping—we can help if you feel stuck) and/or unsustainable for you and your family.
What can unsustainable sleep associations look like?
Lengthy bedtimes (i.e. child requiring rocking to sleep and waking as soon as rocking stops).
Frequent night wakings (i.e. child waking and realizing parent is not present).
What are some POSITIVE Sleep Associations?
We can use sleep associations as a tool for better sleep! When children become accustomed to bedtime routines and their sleep environment, these can become sustainable and functional sleep associations. Your child may associate sleep with things like a dark room, their sleep sack or blanket, a sound machine, a book, a lullaby, a “sleepy time phrase,” or a favorite toy or blanket.
The goal is for your child to find comfort in their sleep associations, which are easy-to-use tools for you as a parent to help achieve better sleep for the family.
We can help you at Just Sleep Already.
Understanding sleep associations can be a powerful tool in developing better sleep habits for your child. While some sleep associations can be problematic if they are unsafe or unsustainable, many can be used positively to create a calming and effective sleep routine. By focusing on beneficial sleep associations, such as a consistent bedtime routine or a comforting sleep environment, you can help your child feel secure and comfortable, leading to more restful nights for the whole family. Remember, it's important to ensure that these associations contribute to a safe and healthy sleep environment, allowing both you and your child to enjoy the restorative rest you need.
If you face challenges or need guidance, feel free to seek support— we're here to help you every step of the way on your journey toward better sleep! Watch our FREE Baby Sleep Workshop HERE to get a better idea of how we get families sleeping better or through the night in 5-7 days without using the “cry it out” method.
Take care!
Jackie & Team
