This guide draws together evidence from psychology, neuroscience, anthropology, and human development to make a compelling case for why you shouldn’t be using or recommending crying-it-out sleep training techniques with babies.

The Problem with Cry-It-Out Sleep Training and What to Do Instead explains what normal infant sleep is like and explores the history and context of cry-it-out sleep training methods for infant sleep. It presents what research shows us about the impact of cry-it-out on babies’ wellbeing and on attachment with their caregivers. It investigates how brain development is affected by sleeping training and discusses why sleep training is developmentally inappropriate and often does not work. The book ends with an in-depth exploration of alternative approaches to promoting good quality infant sleep.

This informative guide is designed to support health, social work, and education professionals working with families and young children.