A children’s sleep expert has shared a unique chair trick that is aiding parents in getting their kids to sleep effortlessly. Getting a child to sleep can be one of the most daunting tasks for parents. From gentle techniques to completely ignoring their cries, parents often resort to a variety of methods to help their little ones drift off.
Recently, a simple technique has been receiving accolades from parents, with one TikTok user even claiming it “saved my sanity”. The expert explains that the method involves gradually moving a chair out of the child’s room as they become more comfortable falling asleep on their own. Ashley Hainsworth, from kids beds and bunk beds specialists Cuckooland, explains the process: “The Chair Method is designed to reduce the anxiety children feel when separated from their parents at bedtime.
“You start by sitting in a chair next to their bed, offering comfort and reassurance. Each night, you move the chair a bit further away until you’re eventually outside the room. This gradual withdrawal helps the child feel secure and builds their confidence to fall asleep independently.”
This method is becoming popular due to its gentle, yet well-organised approach to overcoming bedtime challenges. However, Ashley maintains that the key is patience and consistency.
“It’s not a quick fix, but it fosters a sense of security and routine. Parents need to be calm and persistent, as children may initially resist the changes,” he explains.
In addition to the Chair Method, Ashley recommends making bedtime the same every night. He concludes: “Consistency is key when it comes to bedtime routines. A predictable sequence of activities, such as taking a bath, brushing teeth, and reading a story, signals to the child that it’s time to wind down. This ritual helps in reducing anxiety and prepares the child’s mind and body for sleep.”