What's the theory behind w2s?

[Layla]

I've been exending #2's pm nap by going in at 30mins (or so) and using w2s. It has been a wonderful success and she's been sleeping an av 1.5hrs. But I'm just curious how long will I have to do it before I know she'll be ok to go down for a full nap without my interference. Before x-mas I did it for about 3 days and then x-mas came along and new years and her naps went a bit funny with all the traveling to see the in-laws. Yesterday was our 1st day of getting back into normal routine, etc... and I did w2s again and today as well. The thing is, I am terrified everytime I do it and I just want to be at ease that she will sleep ok on her own so that i can possibly take a nap as well (since #1 is napping then as well). And I am really curious to know how is it that if we (mothers) interfere with their naps (by using w2s) for say 1 week it will make them sleep longer on their own? What is it that makes their bodies take longer naps? Sorry, very stupid question but just something that puzzles me.

Thanks
Layla

[Lana]

In the book Tracy says at least three days so I would think that if you do it for one week you should be ok

[chell]

Hi Layla, the average length of a babys sleep cycle is 45 mins. Towards the end of the cycle they are in REM sleep, coming back into conciousness at around the 40-45min mark. The theory is that you rouse them slightly, just enough to alter the next stage of sleep. So instead of them going from REM sleep - waking, they will go from light sleep (which you) have created) - deep sleep, which automatically comes next.

Check out this link: https://babywhispererforums.com/index.php?topic=64515.0

Tracy says to do W2S for 3 nights in a row, or even less sometimes. If you have got the technique right, which it sounds as though you have, then I reckon a week will be plenty!
Well done and keep it going!