What is the Ferber method of sleep training?

The Ferber method, developed by Dr. Richard Ferber, is a graduated extinction sleep training technique. You put your baby down awake and check on them at progressively longer intervals (3 min, 5 min, 10 min, etc.) until they fall asleep independently.

When should I start Ferber method sleep training?

Most pediatricians recommend starting the Ferber method between 4-6 months of age. At this point, babies are developmentally ready to sleep through the night without feeding and can learn to self-soothe.

How long does the Ferber method take to work?

Most babies show improvement within 3-7 days using the Ferber method. Full adjustment typically takes about 2 weeks. Consistency is the most important factor for success.

Ferber Method Sleep Training Guide

Sleep training helps your baby learn to fall asleep independently. Not every method works for every baby—find what works for your family.

1. What is Sleep Training?

Sleep training is the process of teaching your baby to fall asleep on their own without needing to be rocked, fed, or held. When babies can self-soothe, they can also put themselves back to sleep when they wake during the night, resulting in better rest for everyone.

Sleep training doesn't necessarily mean "crying it out." There are various methods ranging from gentle approaches to more direct ones. Choose what feels right for your family.

2. When to Start Sleep Training

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that 4-6 months is generally a good time to start sleep training. By this age, most babies:

Weigh at least 12-14 pounds (5.5-6.5 kg)
Can go longer stretches without feeding
Have developed some circadian rhythm
Are physically capable of sleeping through the night

Signs your baby may be ready: Night feedings have decreased to 1-2 times, baby can differentiate between day and night, and is generally healthy.

3. Popular Sleep Training Methods

Ferber Method (Graduated Extinction)

Developed by Dr. Richard Ferber, this method involves putting your baby down awake and checking on them at progressively longer intervals.

Night 1: Check at 3 min → 5 min → 10 min intervals
Night 2: Check at 5 min → 10 min → 12 min intervals
Continue increasing intervals each night
Keep check-ins brief (1-2 minutes), offer verbal reassurance only

Chair Method (Camping Out)

Sit in a chair next to the crib while your baby falls asleep. Move the chair farther away each night until you're out of the room. This is a gentler approach but may take 2-3 weeks.

Pick Up Put Down Method

When your baby cries, pick them up until calm, then put them back down. Repeat as needed. This method is gentle but can be physically exhausting for parents.

Extinction (Cry It Out)

After your bedtime routine, leave the room and don't return until morning. This is the fastest method but can be emotionally challenging for parents.

4. Tips for Success

Be consistent: Stick with your chosen method for at least 1-2 weeks
Create a bedtime routine: Bath → Feed → Book → Song → Bed
Optimize the sleep environment: Dark room, cool temperature (68-72°F), white noise
Watch the wake windows: An overtired baby has more trouble falling asleep
Ensure baby is well-fed: A full tummy helps baby sleep longer
Both parents on board: Consistency from all caregivers is crucial

5. When to Pause Sleep Training

Sleep training is not mandatory. If you and your baby are happy with current sleep patterns, there's no need to change. Consider pausing if:

Baby is sick or teething
Major life changes (moving, travel, starting daycare)
During sleep regressions (4 months, 8 months, etc.)
You feel too stressed—it's okay to try again later

6. Recommended Sleep by Age (AAP Guidelines)

0-3 months: 14-17 hours total (4-5 naps)
4-6 months: 12-15 hours total (3-4 naps)
7-12 months: 12-14 hours total (2 naps)
1-2 years: 11-14 hours total (1-2 naps)

Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), National Sleep Foundation, Dr. Richard Ferber's research