Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Sleep Sanity.

I know I already mentioned the book 12 hours sleep by 12 weeks old but I have to say it again. This book has saved me. Elizabeth sleeps from 8pm to 8am. Eats at 8am. Takes a nap from 9:30-10:30. Eats at 12pm. Sleeps from 12:30-4:00! Eats at 4pm. Awake from 4-8, sometimes takes a 20-30 min cat nap around 6:00. Eats at 8:00 (or just before). Sleeps again from 8 to 8! We put her in her bed awake, in her own room, typically without crying (although there was some crying in the process to get to this point), and we have to wake her up. When she can stay relatively close to this schedule she is happy, pleasant, and calm while she's awake. I'm not exaggerating, this is really her schedule. Granted I think Elizabeth is a very good baby however, I really believe it is mostly to do with diligently following this book. We read quite a few books and took advice from all of them but what I liked so much about this one is that it's practical not just theoretical. Many of the books we read gave generalized advice that was difficult to apply for first time parents. This books tells you exactly what to do and when to do it. That's what I needed! I've spoken with people that feel as though a strict schedule would tie them down and take away the freedom they love. Talk to those same parents a few kids later and I'm sure they might sacrifice some of that "freedom" for some sanity. I know I speak from little experience seeing that I only have my first baby and she's only 4 months old, but I'm not the only person that this has worked for. This book came recommended from 3 friends who's kids had similar success. I also understand that all kids are different, so I'm sure applying these rules may take more patience from some than others, but I just wanted to share my happiness with all of you and tell you that I believe if anyone is determined to follow this strictly their little one will have success.

Wow, that ended up being a much longer rant than planned! I really just wanted to post these sweet little pictures of Elizabeth snoozing a couple months ago and got carried away! Anyways, enjoy and let me know about your sleep success or woes and if you've tried this book! Xoxo-



2 comments:

Aubrey said...

SO nice! My kids have always been super sleepers, but it sounds like E has an awesome schedule! Of course now R&R don't think they need a nap...or to go to bed early. yeah. Love it when they can voice their opinions...

Parkinson Family said...

those are the cutest pictures!