What Time of Year Is Best for Sleep Training?

Gentle, Responsive Baby & Toddler Sleep Support

As a baby and child sleep consultant, one of the most common questions I receive—especially at this time of year—is: “When is the best time to sleep train?”
The truth is, you can begin sleep training at any time of year. What matters more is your family’s schedule, the method you choose, and how prepared you are to support your little one with consistency and connection.

At Gentle Nights, I use a graduated behaviour modification approach—a gentle, responsive method that keeps parents present, emotionally connected, and sensitive to their baby’s needs. This process usually takes 3–4 weeks, depending on your child’s age and your goals.

Here’s what to consider when choosing the right time of year—and the right stage of development—for your family.

The Ideal Age to Begin Sleep Training

One of the most important factors in sleep training success isn’t actually the season—it’s your baby’s age and developmental readiness.

In my approach, I do not sleep train babies under 6 months.
The first half-year is a time of rapid neurological development, intense bonding, and huge physical changes. I strongly believe in protecting those first 6 months: allowing babies to grow, to wake as needed, and to build a rhythm that emerges naturally as parents and baby learn each other’s cues.

The "Magic Window": 6–8 Months

While you can sleep train any time after 6 months, I often describe 6–8 months as the “sweet spot” or magic window when:

• Babies are developmentally ready for more consistent patterns

• Their circadian rhythm is more predictable

• They’re old enough to respond well to gentle boundaries

• Parents feel more attuned and confident

Sleep training during this period can be especially smooth and responsive as habits are less established.

Sleep Training Older Babies, Toddlers & Children

Sleep training is absolutely possible—and often very successful—beyond 8 months as well. I regularly work with:

• Babies 9–12 months

• Toddlers

• Pre-schoolers and young children

As children get older, sleep associations may be more established, but with a loving, present, responsive approach, positive changes can still happen quickly. Age is never a barrier after 6 months; it just changes the style and pacing of the plan.

The Most Important Seasonal Consideration: Stability at Home

Regardless of age or time of year, the key to success is choosing a time when your home routine is calm and consistent.

During sleep training, it’s best to avoid:

• Travel or holidays

• House moves

• Introducing a new childcare setting

• Major routine shifts

• Disrupted nap schedules

Day trips are absolutely fine, as long as your little one gets sufficient daytime sleep and you maintain consistent bedtime routines at home.

Why So Many Parents Choose November/Early December

November is one of the most popular months for sleep training because:

• Families want better sleep before the busy festive period

• Parents prefer to create healthy routines before unpredictable holiday schedules

• It allows everyone to enjoy Christmas with a well-rested baby or toddler

This time of year provides a valuable window of focus before the excitement of December.

Can You Sleep Train Over Christmas? Surprisingly, Yes!

Many assume Christmas is a no-go for sleep training, but it can actually work beautifully if:

• Both parents are off work

• You’re spending most of the holidays at home

• You can keep evenings relatively calm

• You’re committed to gentle consistency

For some families, this can be the ideal time: everyone is home, rested, and able to give full attention to the process.

Winter Illnesses: The One Drawback of Cold Weather

The main disadvantage of winter sleep training is the increase in seasonal illnesses.

If your little one becomes sick:

• Don’t start sleep training until they’re fully well

• If sickness happens mid-plan, pause, but don’t abandon everything

• Keep comfort high, maintain familiar routines, and resume when they’re better

Spring and summer often bring fewer bugs, but waiting months isn't always sustainable for families struggling with sleep.

Should Teething Delay Sleep Training? Not Necessarily

Many parents worry that teething will sabotage sleep training, but since babies typically teethe from around 6 months to 2.5 years, stopping for every new tooth would mean never starting at all.

Instead:

• Treat discomfort with your chosen remedies (gels, granules, pain relief if appropriate)

• Offer responsive cuddles and reassurance

• Continue with the plan unless pain is significant

Teething is temporary—and sleep foundations can still be built gently alongside it.

What About Sleep Regressions?

Not all regressions should delay your sleep training journey.

• 4-month regression: it’s best to wait until baby is 6 months, as their sleep cycles are still maturing.

• Other regressions (8–10 months, 12 months, 18 months, 2 years): These are usually tied to developmental leaps, which can happen anytime. With a sensitive, connected approach, you can still set healthy sleep boundaries.

So, When Is the Best Time of Year to Sleep Train?

The best time is when:

✔ Your baby is over 6 months

✔ Everyone is healthy

✔ Your home routine is steady (or you’re ready to make it so!)

✔ You can commit 4 weeks to gentle consistency

✔ You’re ready for support

Whether it’s November, January, April, or July—the best timing is when you feel ready.

Final Thoughts: There’s No Perfect Time—Just the Right Support

With a gentle, responsive method, you can begin sleep training in any season after 6 months. If you're unsure whether now is the right moment, I’m always here to guide you through the decision and help you find an approach that feels aligned, respectful, and sustainable.