When parents hear “sleep training,” many immediately think one thing: cry it out.

But are sleep training and "cry it out" really the same thing?

In this episode of the Surviving Tiny Humans podcast, Dr. Kailey Buller breaks down one of the most common misunderstandings in baby sleep.

We unpack:

• Why sleep training became synonymous with cry-it-out in the first place
• The difference between extinction, modified extinction (Ferber), and total extinction
• Why night weaning and sleep training are not the same thing
• Parent-present methods like pick-up/put-down, the sleep ladder, and the Sleep Lady Shuffle
• Why some crying is often part of learning—but that doesn’t mean neglect
• How temperament and family capacity matter more than internet opinions

This episode also introduces a flexible, customizable approach Dr. Buller calls the “Block Method”—a simple, developmentally appropriate system that allows you to choose:

• how long you might expect baby to go between feeds
• how much reassurance you provide
• and how much independence you’re ready for

Because sleep training isn’t one rigid method. It’s a spectrum of tools—and some families truly need those tools.

Key takeaway:

Sleep training is optional.

Cry-it-out is one method—not the definition.

And you’re allowed to choose the approach that protects both your baby’s sleep and your sanity.

If this episode helped, take a look at the Sleep Quick Tools linked here:

https://www.vitalswithdrbuller.com/sleep-quicktools

These are easy-to-implement supports that can help

• decipher night wakings
• navigate sleep regressions
• create a sustainable (and fair) overnight plan

Or, for more guidance on what to know and how to start supporting sleep, download the free “7 Lies You’ve Been Sold About Sleep Training” guide:

https://www.vitalswithdrbuller.com/sleep7

And, as always, be sure to follow so you don't miss the next episode!