• Knowledgebase: Parenting Questions

    Questions about the managment of common parenting problems such as discipline.

    36. When can I let my baby "Cry it out"? - Top

    Generally, a baby under perhaps six months old will have a reason for crying- hunger, dirty diaper, colic, or something. These infants should be checked, fed or changed if necessary, and returned to their crib.

    As babies get older, towards a year old, they may wake up for no reason. If they use a pacifier, they may look for it and start to fuss when they can't find it.

    If you determine that there is nothing wrong with your baby who is over six months old, return him to the crib. Every 15 minutes or so return to him, pat him on the back calmly and walk away. He will most likely go back to sleep eventually. The more consistent you are with this routine, the better it will work, and the more you both will sleep. - Updated: March 5, 2001

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    • James L Horwitz, MD

    David C. Thomas, MD

    Barbara Lindberg, PNP