#16 in popularitySince 2003Choice of stay-in-room or timed check-ins
Sleep Sense
Dana Obleman
An online program that lets parents choose between staying in the room and timed check-ins.
- Starts
- 4 moProgram from birth
- Results in
- 1–2 weeks
- Crying
- Timed check-ins or Parent present
- Evidence
- Weak
Overview
Sleep consultant Dana Obleman launched Sleep Sense in 2003, and it's now sold as an online program and e-book with versions for different ages. It starts with a consistent schedule and bedtime routine and removes sleep props like feeding or rocking to sleep.
Parents then choose between staying in the room and gradually moving away, or leaving and doing timed check-ins, and stay consistent through an adjustment period. It's step-by-step and lets parents set their own crying level. The program is paid and heavily marketed, and its results come from the company rather than independent study.
How it works
- Consistent schedule and bedtime routine.
- Remove sleep props.
- Choose 'stay in the room' (gradually move away) or timed check-ins.
- Stay consistent through the adjustment period.
Pros
- Step-by-step
- Lets parents choose crying level
Cons
- Paid
- Heavy marketing
- Not independently studied
Evidence
Weak. Program not trialed.
Details
- Popularity
- #16 of 39 · Moderate (estimated)
- Since
- 2003 (23 years)
- When to start
- Age-specific versions; formal training generally ~4–6 months+
- Day structure
- Cue-based routine
- Format
- Online program / e-book
- Good fit for
- Parents who want a guided plan and a choice of crying level.