Choosing a settling method for twins
What to consider when choosing a settling method for twins
There are a lot of settling methods to choose from, ranging from gentle to completely hands-off. Yet how do you choose the RIGHT one for you, and for your twins.
When I talk with parents about choosing the right settling method to work with, there are a few things to keep in mind:
The twins’ age
Their temperaments and dispositions
The parents’ parenting styles
How parents feel about the twins’ crying
Family dynamic
Logistics (physical sleeping environment, older children, parents’ commitments)
Of course, considering we are working with two children at the same time, we will weigh in the options that are feasible and most relevant for the family and twins’ needs.
Which settling method to choose?
When all these are put together, the decision becomes clearer and easier.
While you might want to use a hands-on settling method, your family’s obligations, work or having twin toddlers might mean this isn’t going to work, or not work well.
Some families prefer hands-off methods, yet this isn’t always going to fit with both twins’ temperament and dispositions.
Meanwhile, some parents want to stay in the room while the toddler is falling asleep, yet their presence makes it harder for the child to settle, and they can’t go to sleep at all. Therefore, if the toddler is crying more while you are in the room, it might be best to consider an out-of-the-room method which could be harder on you, yet will make it easier for your toddler to fall asleep.
Sleep training is a journey parents and children take together, and everyone’s needs must be considered. My job is to identify exactly why your toddler struggles to sleep, what is the best option for them, and what method will work best for you and them. Bringing everyone’s feelings into account isn’t always easy. But recognising everyone’s need to sleep and finding the best way to achieve this - is what sleep consultation all about.
Therefore, if you are considering getting help with your twins’ sleep, it should be for the betterment of your toddlers and yourself. Because when parents can put in the hard work and help their toddlers settle to sleep, the children can do the same.
Once you decide on the right settling method for you and your twins, you can start the journey towards better sleep.
Find out if your little ones are ready to self-settle in my “Ready for Self-settling Check-list”.
You can book your sleep consultation today to start getting better sleep, or find out more about my twin-focused sleep consultation in a free discovery call below.