sleeptraining.org All methods

#33 in popularitySince 2007CC: timed check-ins; CO: gradual fading

Controlled Comforting & Camping Out

Harriet Hiscock, MD (Murdoch Children's Research Institute); Raising Children Network

Two trial-tested options: brief check-ins at growing intervals, or a gradual chair fade.

Visit raisingchildren.net.au
Starts
6 mo
Results in
3 nights–3 weeks
Crying
Timed check-ins or Parent present
Evidence
Strong

Overview

Pediatrician Harriet Hiscock and colleagues at the Murdoch Children's Research Institute tested two approaches in large randomized trials in Melbourne, and Australia's Raising Children Network now shares them free. Controlled comforting means putting baby down tired but awake, leaving, and checking at increasing intervals, such as 2, 4, 6 and 8 minutes.

Camping out means sitting or lying beside the cot and patting baby to sleep for about three nights, then sitting without touching, then moving the chair gradually out of the room. A five-year follow-up found no harm to children or to the parent–child relationship. Both are recommended from 6 months, not before.

How it works

  1. Controlled comfortingPut down tired but awake, leave, check at increasing intervals (e.g., 2, 4, 6, 8 min).
  2. Camping outSit or lie beside the cot and pat to sleep (~3 nights), then sit without touching, then move the chair gradually out of the room.

Pros

  • Strong evidence
  • Free
  • Parents choose crying level

Cons

  • CC involves crying
  • CO takes longer

Evidence

Strong. RCTs; no harm to child or relationship at 5 years.

Details

Popularity
#33 of 39 · Low (estimated)
Since
2007 (19 years) · First trial published 2007
When to start
6 months+ (not recommended under 6 months)
Day structure
Cue-based routine
Format
Clinical guidance, online
Good fit for
Parents who want a free, research-tested plan with a choice of crying level.

Similar methods