sleeptraining.org All methods

#28 in popularitySince 2005Gradual; parent present, minimal interaction

Sleep Separation Technique

Jo Frost ("Supernanny")

Sit silently by the crib, lay baby back down with a set phrase, and move away each night.

Find the book
Starts
6 mo
Results in
1–2 weeks
Crying
Parent present
Evidence
Weak

Overview

Jo Frost, the British nanny known from the TV show Supernanny, uses this technique mostly with older babies and toddlers. After the bedtime routine, the parent crouches beside the crib, silent and avoiding eye contact. If the child cries or stands, the parent says a short, consistent phrase and lays them back down.

Each night the parent moves a little farther away until they're out of the room. The rules are clear and the parent stays present, but the presence is deliberately low-warmth.

How it works

  1. Bedtime routine.
  2. Put down; crouch by crib, silent, avoiding eye contact.
  3. If child cries, say a short phrase and lay them back down.
  4. Move farther away each night until out of the room.

Pros

  • Parent present
  • Clear rules

Cons

  • Deliberately low-warmth presence
  • Designed mostly for toddlers

Evidence

Weak. Not trialed.

Details

Popularity
#28 of 39 · Low (estimated)
Since
2005 (21 years)
When to start
Older babies (~6 months+) and toddlers
Day structure
Cue-based routine
Format
Book, TV
Good fit for
Parents of older babies or toddlers who want firm, repeatable rules.

Similar methods