What Is Camping Out
Camping out is a gradual sleep training method where a parent or caregiver remains physically present in the child's room while systematically reducing their involvement over weeks or months. The goal is to help a child fall asleep independently while maintaining a secure attachment, rather than abruptly withdrawing support.
How It Works
The camping out process typically unfolds in phases across 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the child's age and temperament. The caregiver starts by sitting close to the bed, then gradually moves the chair or position further away each night or every few nights. Once the child demonstrates comfort with the caregiver across the room, the caregiver begins stepping outside the door for brief intervals, then extends those intervals before leaving entirely.
Success depends on consistency. Most practitioners recommend moving to the next phase only after the child falls asleep without protest for at least 3 to 5 consecutive nights at the current stage. The method works best for children ages 2 and older who can understand cause and effect.
When Camping Out Applies
Camping out differs from other gentle methods in its emphasis on physical presence combined with spatial distance. It suits families who want to avoid extinction-based approaches (like full cry-it-out) but need a structured pathway. Parents dealing with separation anxiety or insecure attachment in children often find this method less jarring than abrupt withdrawal.
The method is less effective for children with underlying sleep disorders. If your child has suspected sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, or circadian rhythm disorders, polysomnography or a sleep medicine evaluation should come first. Addressing the medical condition takes priority over behavioral training.
Integration With Sleep Hygiene
Camping out works best alongside solid sleep hygiene habits. A consistent bedtime within 30 minutes each night, a dark room (less than 5 lux of light), room temperature between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit, and minimal screen time 1 to 2 hours before bed all strengthen the method's effectiveness. Without these foundations, even perfect execution of camping out may stall progress.
If your child has insomnia symptoms that persist beyond 2 to 3 weeks of consistent camping out, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) adapted for children may help address underlying anxiety or thought patterns driving the sleep resistance.
Common Questions
- How long does camping out typically take? Most families see meaningful progress within 4 to 8 weeks if they maintain consistency. Some children adapt faster, while others need 10 to 12 weeks. The key is steady progression without reverting to earlier phases when temporary setbacks occur.
- What if my child regresses after seeming to improve? Minor regressions during illness, travel, or stress are normal. Return to the last successful phase for a few nights, then resume progression. If regression is severe or frequent, consult a pediatric sleep specialist to rule out sleep apnea or other medical factors.
- Can adults use camping out? While traditionally designed for children, the principle of gradual disengagement from sleep-promoting behaviors applies to adults with insomnia. However, adult insomnia treatment typically emphasizes CBT-I, sleep restriction therapy, and stimulus control rather than camping out specifically.