Implementing the Pick-Up-Put-Down Method in Sleep Training
The Pick-Up-Put-Down (PUPD) method is an occasional sleep training method used with young children. This type of sleep training typically involves the parent intervening in the child’s sleep routine by responding to their crying or refusal to stay asleep. The goal is to help the child learn to self-soothe and put themselves to sleep.
The PUPD method can be effective when done correctly and can help create a consistent bedtime routine. The task of comforting and soothing your child while enforcing a bedtime routine can be challenging, but thankfully, there are tips and guidelines to help you implement this method effectively.
It is important to understand that sleep training is never a one-size-fits-all solution and that different children may require different approaches to sleep training.
Identifying When to Start the PUPD Method
When it comes to sleep training, it is important to take into account your child’s age and developmental readiness. Generally speaking, the PUPD method is most effective for infants aged four to six months, as they are old enough to understand basic sleep routines and experienced enough to learn self-soothing. If you are unsure about when to start sleep training, it is best to consult your pediatrician.
When your child is ready for sleep training, it is important to have clear expectations and a plan. You should determine how long the process should take, how long you should nurse or rock your child before starting the PUPD method, and when you should end the PUPD method if it is not effective.
Steps to Follow for the PUPD Method
The PUPD method typically involves the following steps. The length of the PUPD process can vary depending on how long it takes your child to learn self-soothing:
- Nurse or rock your child until they are almost asleep.
- Lay your child in the crib.
- Stay in the room with your child if they begin to cry. Talk in a low, soothing voice, and touch them gently if appropriate.
- Continue this process until either your child has fallen asleep or until you believe it is time to stop.
It is important to remember that you may have to repeat the same routine multiple times over several nights before your child gets used to this sleep routine and is able to self-soothe.
Tips to Help Implement PUPD Method Successfully
It is important to remember that sleep training should never be a punishment. Be consistent in your approach and never punish your child if the routine does not go as expected. Here are some tips to consider when it comes to using the PUPD method successfully:
- Remain as composed as possible while staying in the room with your child.
- Ensure that the room they are sleeping in is comfortable and well-ventilated.
- Do not stay in the room for more than 10 minutes at a time.
- Ensure that your child has had adequate daytime naps.
- Be flexible and understand that your child might need more or less time to learn self-soothing.
Conclusion
The PUPD method can be an effective sleep training method for young children. However, it is important to remember that it may not work for every child and it can be a challenging and time-consuming task. If you choose to use the PUPD method, it is important that you approach it with patience and consistency so that your child learns the routine and can successfully self-soothe.