How Babies Sleep

February 17, 2020
Axelrod, a biologist who studies sleep at the Rockefeller University, debuts with a straightforward manual for getting babies to sleep at least seven hours nightly at 16 weeks of age. Drawing on current research into circadian rhythms, Axelrod recommends a disciplined schedule from birth, with red lightbulbs (which don’t trigger the circadian system) and blackout curtains installed in the bedroom; prompt wake-ups that “make it clear—the day starts now!”; and shortened naps to ensure babies are sleepy by bedtime. Her method calls for letting babies, at three or four months, to cry for at least 90 seconds at night before parents respond, and for parents to soothe but not pick up or feed them throughout the night. Though Axelrod notes that research into why babies cry is still inconclusive, she asserts that, through concerted application of her system, babies can be taught to self-soothe after just a few days. Parents, especially first-time parents, may have a hard time buying her constant reiteration that this method is “gentle” despite being temporarily hard on parent and baby alike. Nonetheless, those exhausted by the vagaries of baby sleep will appreciate having a clearly explained and reassuring guide from an expert in the field.

Starred review from May 1, 2020

Sleep researcher and coach Axelrod's first book is a scientific tome on the oft-tackled topic of helping your baby sleep through the night. As a parent, Axelrod experienced the effects of sleep deprivation firsthand, which further motivated her research. Time of day of light exposure, light intensity, and light wavelength and color are aspects that can be controlled throughout the day by the average parent to regulate sleep rhythms, according to Axelrod. Using the right type of night light, using blackout shades, and creating a strong contrast between day and nighttime routines are a few ideas explored in this book on gentle sleep training based on science. The author also considers challenging issues such as regulating sleep when you must travel across time zones, what to do about weekends and vacations, dealing with sickness and the changes that brings in the sleep cycle, and how to manage changes in daytime napping. VERDICT This is a valuable resource that uses research to help parents and babies get the shut-eye they desperately need.

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