5 Myths About Baby Sleep That Might Be Stressing You Out

Laura Halsey
Aug 6
2 min read

Baby sleep advice is everywhere - and a lot of it is outdated, unhelpful, or just plain confusing. As a holistic, gentle sleep consultant based in London (supporting families worldwide), I speak to so many parents who are doing everything “right” and still feeling like they’re getting it wrong.

The Peaceful Sleep Company - Understanding your baby’s sleep, starts with busting the myths.

Here are five of the most common baby sleep myths I hear and the truth that might help you breathe a little easier tonight.

Myth 1: Your baby should be “sleeping through the night” by 12 weeks

The truth: This expectation is unrealistic and rooted in outdated research. Night waking is biologically normal in the first year (and beyond), and sleep develops gradually. Supporting sleep gently over time is far more sustainable than trying to rush it.

Myth 2: You have to leave your baby to cry-it-out for them to learn to sleep

The truth: You can absolutely improve sleep without leaving your baby to cry alone. Gentle, responsive methods that consider your baby’s temperament, sleep pressure, environment and routine can lead to real results - without tears or trauma.

Myth 3: Sleep training is the only way to fix sleep problems

The truth: Sleep support isn’t just about training - it’s about understanding your baby’s rhythms, identifying what’s not working, and making small changes that create big improvements. You don’t need a strict “method” to see progress.

Myth 4: If you feed to sleep, you’re making a rod for your own back

The truth: Feeding to sleep is completely normal, especially in the early months. If it’s working for you, it’s not a problem. And if it’s not, there are gentle ways to shift the association over time - no guilt required.

Myth 5: You should never use routines with young babies

The truth: While rigid schedules don’t work for everyone, flexible routines can actually reduce stress and support better sleep for both you and your baby. Predictability helps your baby feel secure and you feel more confident.

🌿 Final Thoughts:

If you’ve been feeling confused or like you're doing something wrong, know this: you’re not alone - and you don’t need to figure it out all by yourself.

Whether you're preparing for your first baby or navigating bedtime battles with your toddler, I offer gentle, holistic sleep support tailored to your family. No cry-it-out, ever. Just calm, responsive guidance that actually works.