Understanding Child Cot Aversion During Sleep Training and Coaching

Sleep either makes or breaks the mood of toddlers, small children and you! As parents, you want the best for your child, and having them peacefully sleep is a very normal parenting goal. This is where sleep training and sleep coaching come in. It's essential to understand the various methods of sleep coaching, but what do you do when your child experiences cot aversion? Cot aversion is a common challenge that parents face when embarking on sleep coaching. In this blog, we'll explore what cot aversion is, its causes, and how to help your little ones through it.

Cot aversion is when your baby or toddler has developed an extreme dislike of being in their cot or crib. This feeling happens as a result of your little one not associating their bed with sleep and contentment, which causes anxious feelings when they have to go to bed. The causes of cot aversion are many, but the most common one is when a child is used to sleeping somewhere other than their bed, such as on your bed, having only contact naps/sleep, or in a different room. This can cause your child (understandably) to want what they are used to, and they become uneasy and agitated when placed in their cot. This in itself isn't an issue, if you're happy with however you've been sleeping so far. It is a problem however, when you decide that isn't working for your family anymore and you need a change.

The key to understanding and solving cot aversion is identifying the cause and then work on finding a solution. One idea is to introduce a transitional object like a soft toy or blanket. This object will help give them comfort and enhance their sense of security. You should also introduce them gradually to their cot by having them take their naps or having quiet time in it before graduating to sleeping there all night.

Another way to help your little one overcome cot aversion is by adopting a sleep training approach that works best for them. For instance, the 'fade out' method or the 'comfort and reassure' technique allows you to check on your child in intervals, giving them the assurance that you are there without picking them up. This will help lessen anxiety and give them the courage to sleep on their own.

It's also essential to create a sleep-conducive environment. Ensure that the room is cool, properly lit, and not too noisy. A red-light device will help diffuse warm light, add to the room's coziness, and make them sleep better. Additionally, establishing a bedtime routine is a good way of calming your child and creating a sense of security before bedtime.

Sleep coaching and training can be challenging, and cot aversion is a common setback that parents often experience. It's essential to be patient and understanding when dealing with your little one and identifying the cause of cot aversion and finding a solution that works. Introducing a transitional object, adopting a sleep training approach that works, and creating a sleep-conducive environment is a good way to help your child overcome cot aversion. With consistency and patience, you can help your little one develop a healthy sleep routine that will make evryone feel a bit more human!.

‍