What are common readiness signs for sleep training or establishing routines?

• A. Immediately after birth with frequent night waking.
• B. Only after 12 months with no self-soothing.
• C. Ready signals include constant daytime naps every 30 minutes.
• D. Around 4–6 months or older; longer sleep stretches, improved self-soothing ability, consistent sleep-wake cues when routine is implemented.

Answer: (D)

Readiness for sleep training centers on a baby’s ability to sleep more independently and follow a predictable routine. Around 4–6 months or older, many babies start to consolidate night sleep into longer stretches, which means they can go longer between feeds and awaken less often. They also begin to self-soothe more effectively, so they can settle themselves back to sleep without constant parental help. When a consistent routine is put in place—regular bedtimes, a calm pre-sleep routine, and a sleep-friendly environment—these signs become clearer and the baby’s sleep patterns align with the schedule. This combination—longer nighttime sleep, better self-soothing, and stable day–night cues—best indicates readiness for sleep training or establishing routines. Early, newborn-night waking, waiting until 12 months, or daytime naps that are very short or irregular do not reflect the typical readiness window.