Sleep coaching can feel like a big milestone—for both you and your little one. But here’s the good news: there’s no “perfect” timeline and absolutely nothing wrong if your baby (or you!) aren’t quite ready yet. Think of this as more of a gentle guide than a hard rulebook.
If you’re curious whether your baby might be ready to dip their toes into Baby-Led Sleep Coaching, here’s a handy checklist to help you figure it out.
Signs Your Baby Might Be Ready
Age and stage: Your baby is at least 4½ months old and has already moved through the 4-month sleep regression.
Emerging patterns: You’re starting to see some consistency in your sleep logs, such as:
- A regular morning wake-up time between 6:30–7:30 am.
- A bedtime that falls between 6:30–7:30 pm.
- A nice long nighttime stretch (and even if that’s missing right now, you’ve seen it before).
Bedtime routine: You have a soothing, predictable bedtime routine that helps everyone wind down.
Daytime sleep on track: Naps are happening easily and your baby is getting the right amount of sleep for their age—even if the naps are still short or need your help.
Doctor’s green light: Your pediatrician has confirmed your baby can go down to 1–2 night feedings and has given you the thumbs-up for gentle coaching.
Well-fed and thriving: Your baby is eating enough during the day, any feeding or health challenges (like reflux or allergies) are managed, and growth is on track.
Early wins: You’ve had some success with gentle techniques like Switcheroo or Jiggle and Soothe at bedtime.
Team effort: Everyone who cares for your baby (partners, grandparents, childcare providers) is on the same page.
Your mindset: You feel ready to give it a try, and you’re prepared to pause if it becomes too stressful.
Want even more guidance on creating gentle sleep habits from the very start? The Sleep Lady®’s Gentle Newborn Sleep Guide walks you through proven techniques—month by month—so you can feel confident at every stage. Grab your copy HERE
When It Might Be Best to Wait
Sometimes the timing just isn’t right—and that’s perfectly okay. You may want to hold off on sleep coaching if:
- Your baby is still waking often at night for full feedings.
- Sleep has been rocky since the 4-month regression and hasn’t stabilized yet.
- Your little one is about to start childcare for the first time.
- Bottle feeding is still a challenge.
- Issues like reflux haven’t been fully managed.
- Your baby has a sensitive or extra-alert temperament and sleep shaping feels like the better option for now.
- You don’t feel mentally or emotionally ready—and that’s just as important as your baby’s readiness.
Final Thoughts
Sleep coaching isn’t a race—it’s more like learning to ride a bike. Some babies are ready to “balance sooner”, others need a little more time, and that’s completely normal. Trust your instincts, follow your baby’s cues, and remember: you can always try again later.
Feeling overwhelmed in the newborn stage? Book a Gentle Sleep Coach Mini Call—a 20-minute one-on-one session with a certified expert. Get quick, personalized answers, gentle steps you can use right away, and guidance on next steps.
Your $45 fee can be applied toward a full coaching package if you continue. Schedule your Mini Call today and take the first gentle step toward more rest for you and your baby.
