A widely noted French practice: when a baby stirs at night, parents don’t rush in. They pause briefly to check whether the baby is truly awake, not just moving between sleep cycles.
Why it can work
- Sleep runs in 45–60 minute cycles; babies often wake briefly between them.
- If you rush in, the baby learns every short cycle needs your help.
- A brief pause helps the baby learn to link cycles independently.
Pause, listen, then respond — not leaving the baby to cry for long.
IMPORTANT: a brief pause is not the same as leaving a baby to cry alone. For a hungry newborn, respond promptly — they need night feeds. Never compromise safe sleep (back, firm surface, no loose blankets).