Updated: August 21, 2015
Originally Published: July 30, 2012
The “Cry It Out” method, often abbreviated as CIO, is not an enjoyable way to spend any night, including weekends. Having experienced this approach firsthand with my twins a few years back, I thought I had put that chapter behind me. However, the arrival of my unexpected little one in 2011 thrust me back into the thick of it.
Last night served as a harsh reminder of the trials of CIO. For those fortunate enough to have yet to experience this, allow me to share my recent ordeal.
At precisely 2:39 a.m., the clock marked the official start of my sleepless saga. Flopping back onto my pillow, I attempted to convince myself that I could drift back into slumber if I just covered my head. Of course, the piercing screams echoed through, rendering my denial futile.
After ten minutes of escalating cries, I reluctantly got up to relieve myself. Since sleep was clearly not on the agenda, I might as well take care of my bladder. Perhaps, I mused, the commotion would cease while I was momentarily occupied. Alas, I discovered the toilet seat left up by my partner, leading to an unfortunate fall and a not-so-pleasant encounter with his unmentionables.
Returning to bed, I took a deep breath and reassured myself that the crying couldn’t possibly last indefinitely. Surely, my child would tire out soon. I smiled, thinking I was “winning” this battle.
At around 2:59 a.m., I ventured down the hallway to check on my other children, hoping their peaceful slumber remained undisturbed. Standing outside my CIO child’s door, I wrestled with the decision to intervene. Genuine concerns included potential diaper disasters, vomit, or limbs trapped in crib rails. On the flip side, unacceptable reasons could range from requesting a drink of water to demanding a specific stuffed animal. Ultimately, I concluded that entering the room would likely worsen the situation. After all, her persistent cries of “THIRSTY!” implied she wasn’t facing a true emergency. I retreated to my bed.
As I tossed and turned, I began to suspect heartburn was creeping in. I made my way downstairs to find some Tums, bringing my phone along to engage in a game of Words With Friends, as sleep seemed elusive. My score soared despite my exhaustion and the growing irritability.
My partner snored rhythmically, prompting jealousy at his ability to sleep through the chaos. A mini poodle whimpered in his dreams, further fueling my envy of his uncomplicated life. Why couldn’t I just be a dog?
I kept glancing at the clock, wondering how much longer this would endure. Wasn’t she exhausted? I certainly was!
When the clock struck 3:39 a.m. (the full hour of CIO, which is crucial to note), I flung the covers aside and stormed into her room, demanding to know what was happening.
With tear-streaked cheeks and a snotty nose, she held up her naked stuffed pig, Olivia, and pleaded, “Olivia? Dress? Dress on? Help, Mommy?” The dramatic sniffles and bedhead showed just how distraught she was.
Seriously? Was this the reason for the last sixty minutes of distress? A doll in need of clothing?
I snatched the pig and the dress, and, after a brief internal debate about the merits of dressing the doll versus the risk of prolonged crying, I opted for the former. In just 13 seconds, Olivia was back in her sailor outfit, and my child snuggled into the corner of her crib, content with a sigh.
Weary, I returned to my room, hoping for a final stretch of sleep until morning. Yet, dawn had arrived, and it took another half hour of relaxation in the newfound silence before I could finally drift off.
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In summary, the CIO method can be a grueling experience for both parents and children, marked by sleepless nights and unexpected challenges. Yet, understanding the reasons behind a child’s distress can lead to quicker resolutions and a return to peace.
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