Sleep Training With Twins: A Complete Parent's Guide

Congratulations on your two adorable children!  Although having twins is undoubtedly a blessing, let's face it—not getting enough sleep can happen very quickly.  Battles during the night might feel overpowering, making you question whether calm nights are a thing of the past.

Parents who lack sleep do not panic! This tutorial can help you understand the world of twin sleep training. We'll review safe and practical methods for teaching your kids to sleep independently and stay asleep all night.

 If you've ever felt like "bedtime is a nightmare," rest assured—we'll provide solutions to help ease those nighttime struggles.

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When can you start sleep training twins?

While there isn't a universally applicable solution, most specialists advise delaying sleep training for twins until they are 4-6 months old. As a result, they acquire a more regular sleep pattern and the capacity to comfort themselves physically. 

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5 recommendations before twin sleep training

So you've decided to embark on the sleep training journey with your twins.  Before diving into specific techniques, here are some crucial steps to prepare for a smooth transition:

1. Choose if you want to train your twins in the same room: This is a big decision that can impact the success of your sleep training journey. Here are some factors to consider:

• The presence of one twin typically comforts the other. They may feel more secure sleeping in the same room, which may reduce their screaming.

• The other twin's slumber can be readily disturbed by the cries or movements of the first twin. This might cause a chain reaction of weeping and increase the difficulty of sleep training.

2. Talk to your pediatrician: Discuss your sleep training plans with your pediatrician. They can address your concerns and ensure the chosen method suits your twins' needs.

3. Establish a consistent sleep schedule: Create a consistent bedtime routine and stick to it as much as possible. This includes bath time, feeding, quiet cuddles, and bedtime stories.  

4. Include relaxing massages: You could incorporate a gentle massage routine before bath time. Use soothing baby oil and focus on movements that promote relaxation, such as stroking their arms, legs, and back in circular motions. Our StoryBook app offers massages, affirmations, meditations, and bedtime stories.
5. ‍Optimize the Sleep Environment: Ensure the sleep environment is dark, quiet, and calm (around 68-72°F or 20-22°C).

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You can find guidance on how to sleep train twins in the same room here: how to sleep train twins in the same room

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How to start sleep training with twins?

It takes a calculated approach to help your twins conquer the night's mayhem. The following are some practical methods created especially for multiples:

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1. Designing a twin-friendly bedtime routine

A calming and consistent bedtime routine is essential for sleep training success, especially when working with twins. Here's how to create a routine that promotes relaxation and prepares your twins for sleep:

we made a blog for you: bedtimes by age

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2. Include relaxing massages

A peaceful nighttime routine is necessary for practical sleep training. This video from StoryBook explores the power of touch and shows how giving your twins a soothing massage before bed can help them feel secure and calm, which will help them sleep better.  

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3. Synchronized sleep schedules

Setting up synchronized sleep rhythms is essential to twin sleep training success. This entails going to bed and waking them up at regular intervals, even if one twin appears to be more tired than the other. 

Establishing a consistent morning routine for kids can also support this rhythm. In StoryBook, we have all the guides you need: 

• Bedtime routine for newborn (0-3 Months)
• Bedtime routine for babies (4 to 11 months)
• Bedtime routine for toddlers (1 to 2 years)
• Bedtime routine for kids (3 to 5 years)
• Bedtime routine for teens (6 to 12 years)

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🥰Tip: Maintaining consistency helps both of them sleep better by regulating their internal clocks.

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4. Use white noise 

A white noise machine might be an effective tool for twins who need help falling asleep. The steady, calming sound can block out outside disturbances like traffic or barking dogs and cover up any noises one twin makes that could wake the other. 

Select a mild, ambient white noise noise, such as rain or waves in the ocean.

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5. Adaptable sleep training methods

After you've created a peaceful nighttime routine and synchronized sleep rhythms, it's time to look into sleep training techniques. The following well-liked methods can be modified for twins:

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“The goal of sleep training is for your baby to be comfortable sleeping for several hours through the night on their own. If they wake up, they’ll learn to self-soothe and fall back asleep.”
💡Sleep Foundation

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• Pick up-put down: Briefly comfort your crying twins with pats or soothing words but avoid picking them up. Gradually increase the intervals between checks.

• The shuffle: Sit in a chair next to the crib and gradually move further away each night as your twins learn to self-soothe. Offer soothing words and reassurance, but avoid picking them up.

• Stay-in-the-room method: Stay with your twins but avoid picking them up or engaging in playtime. Offer comfort and reassurance through verbal cues or pats on the back.

• Fading method: Gradually decrease your bedtime time with your twins. Start by sitting next to the crib, then gradually move to the doorway, and eventually out of the room.

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6. Addressing common sleep issues in twins

There may be setbacks while sleep training twins, even with the best-laid plans.

• Differential sleep needs: One twin might naturally be a better sleeper than the other. Don't get discouraged!

• Sleep regression: Sleep regressions can be triggered by developmental milestones, teething, or illness.

• Separation anxiety: Separation anxiety is common during sleep training.

• Inconsistent sleep patterns: These disruptions can throw off their sleep schedules.

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Remember that our StoryBook App has meditations, short stories, massages and affirmations.

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Twin sleep training tips

Although teaching twins to sleep could seem like a double-edged sword, it is possible with the appropriate strategy. Here are a few more pointers to help you on this journey:

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Understanding the individual needs of each twin

Even though they're twins, they might have different sleep personalities. One might be a champion sleeper, while the other needs more time to settle.

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Involving both caregivers in the sleep training process

Having a consistent approach is crucial. Discuss sleep training methods with your partner and agree on a plan you'll implement.

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Celebrating milestones in sleep patterns

Acknowledge and celebrate even small improvements in their sleep patterns. This positive reinforcement motivates them and keeps you going during challenging nights.

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“A nightly bedtime routine as a key factor in the promotion of not only healthy sleep but also of broad development and wellbeing in early childhood”
💡NIH