The Cry It Out Method: What Parents Need to Know

The Cry-It-Out (CIO) method is one of the most well-known and debated sleep training techniques. It aims to help babies learn how to fall asleep independently by allowing them to self-soothe, even if it means letting them cry for a period of time. This article provides an overview of how the method works, its potential benefits and drawbacks, and what parents should consider before deciding to use it.

What Is the Cry-It-Out Method?

The Cry-It-Out method involves placing the baby in their crib while they are drowsy but still awake and allowing them to fall asleep on their own—without being rocked, fed, or soothed by a caregiver. The method allows the baby to cry for set periods of time before a parent checks in briefly, gradually increasing these intervals over several nights. The goal is to teach the baby to self-soothe and develop independent sleep habits.

Origins of the Method

The CIO method gained popularity in the 1980s with Dr. Richard Ferber's book, “Solve Your Child's Sleep Problems.” His approach, often called "Ferberizing," is a structured form of CIO involving timed check-ins. Over the years, various versions of CIO have emerged, ranging from “extinction” (no check-ins) to “graduated extinction” (increasing wait times).

How the CIO Method Works

Establish a consistent bedtime routine (e.g., bath, book, lullaby).
Place the baby in the crib while drowsy but still awake.
Leave the room and allow the baby to fall asleep independently.
If the baby cries, wait a set amount of time (e.g., 3 minutes), then return briefly to reassure without picking them up.
Increase the wait time between check-ins each night (e.g., 5, 10, 15 minutes).
Repeat for several nights until the baby learns to fall asleep on their own.

Potential Benefits

Improved Sleep: Many families report better sleep for both baby and parents after a few nights of CIO.
Short Training Period: CIO can produce results within 3–7 days, depending on the child.
Establishes Routine: Helps babies learn a regular sleep schedule and fall asleep independently.

Concerns and Criticisms

Emotional Distress: Some experts and parents worry that prolonged crying may cause unnecessary stress or impact emotional development.
Not Suitable for All Babies: High-needs or sensitive babies may struggle more with CIO.
Parental Discomfort: Many parents find it emotionally difficult to hear their baby cry without responding.

What Do Experts Say?

There is no single approach that works for every family. Most pediatricians agree that CIO is safe for healthy babies over 4 to 6 months of age, as long as it is used consistently and responsibly. However, experts also stress the importance of considering the baby's temperament, parental values, and emotional comfort levels.

Dr. Jodi Mindell, a pediatric sleep expert, notes: “There is no evidence that controlled crying harms infants. It’s important that parents do what feels right for them and their child.”

Tips for Parents Considering CIO

Ensure your baby is healthy and over 4–6 months old before beginning.
Create a predictable and calming bedtime routine.
Be consistent. Inconsistency can confuse the baby and make the process longer.
Expect some crying, but monitor the length and intensity. Trust your instincts.
Discuss the plan with your partner or caregiver and agree on a strategy.

Alternative Approaches

If the CIO method doesn’t align with your parenting style, consider gentler alternatives such as:

Pick-Up-Put-Down: Pick up the baby to comfort and put them back down repeatedly.
Chair Method: Sit beside the crib and gradually move farther away each night.
Bedtime Fading: Gradually shift bedtime earlier once the baby starts falling asleep easily.

Conclusion

The Cry-It-Out method can be an effective sleep training tool for some families, but it’s not the only option. Every baby is different, and what works for one child may not work for another. The most important factor is that parents feel confident and comfortable with the approach they choose—and that they respond with love, patience, and consistency.