Families For Life | How to Help Your Baby Sleep
Sleep can be challenging during your baby's first year. If your baby is over 6 months old and frequently struggles to settle or wakes often at night, the camping out method may help them gradually learn to fall asleep with less assistance while still feeling secure and supported.
What Is Camping Out?
Camping out is a gentle sleep approach where you stay close to your baby as they learn to fall asleep independently. Instead of feeding, rocking, carrying, or cuddling your baby to sleep, you gradually reduce your involvement over time while reassuring them with your presence.
Many parents find this method helpful because it allows babies to develop self-settling skills without being left alone.
Before trying any sleep-training approach, it is a good idea to discuss your baby's sleep concerns with a paediatrician, especially if sleep difficulties are ongoing or affecting your family's well-being.
How to Use the Camping Out Method
Start by placing a chair beside your baby's cot.
At bedtime, settle your baby in the cot and sit next to them. You can gently pat or stroke your baby if needed while they fall asleep.
Once your baby becomes comfortable falling asleep with you nearby, begin reducing the amount of patting and touching over several nights.
When your baby can settle with minimal physical contact, move your chair slightly further away from the cot. Stay there until your baby falls asleep.
Every few nights, continue moving the chair further towards the bedroom door. Over one to three weeks, you can gradually move out of the room altogether.
If your baby wakes during the night, return to the chair position you have reached in the process and provide reassurance until they settle again.
Remember that every baby is different. You may need to move more slowly, spend longer at each stage, or provide additional comfort depending on your baby's temperament and needs.
Tips for Success
Keep bedtime calm and predictable. A simple bedtime routine, such as a bath, feeding, story, or lullaby, helps your baby recognise that sleep time is approaching.
When sitting near your baby's cot, keep interactions quiet and soothing. Use a calm voice and reassure your baby that you are nearby.
Avoid stimulating activities such as playing, switching on bright lights, or engaging in lengthy conversations during bedtime.
If your baby becomes distressed, comfort them with gentle touch or a cuddle before placing them back in the cot when they are calmer.
Consistency is important. Try to follow the same bedtime routine and settling approach each night.
If the Method Isn't Working
Some babies take longer to adjust than others. Developmental milestones, growth spurts, teething, illness, or changes in routine can temporarily affect sleep.
If you do not notice any improvement after two to three weeks, consider speaking with your paediatrician, family doctor, or a child sleep professional for advice tailored to your baby's needs.
Key Takeaway
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for baby sleep. What works well for one family may not work for another. If camping out does not suit your baby, it does not mean you have done anything wrong. The most effective sleep approach is one that supports both your baby's needs and your family's well-being. Building a loving, responsive relationship with your baby remains the foundation of healthy sleep and development.
Suitable age: Babies aged 6-12 months.
Not recommended for: Newborns under 6 months, who generally need more frequent feeding, comfort, and responsive caregiving, especially during the early months of life.
