Why not a really short Controlled Cry?

[Erin M]

Yes, if you LO is just doing the whining/fussing sort of cry that generally means they're trying to go back to sleep, you can leave them in there. 

[MDHmommy]

Hey there Cath!
When I did it with Marshall, I would leave and not look back no matter what. So, if I put him down, sang songs and then kissed goodnight - and he would cry as soon as I put up the crib rail, I'd lie him back down, say good night and leave. Even if he was crying. Then as soon as I was out door with door shut, I'd start counting. 8 was our number. But lately, I've been counting as long as 20 if necessary.
I found with Marshall that after a couple of these, his cry would change, and I could tell the difference between ed and sad. Seemed with Marshall that he'd stop to listen if I was still out there when he was ed.
My rule was if the cry sounded irritated - like, I'm not getting my way - I'd let it go, until it turned into a real genuine cry. If it were quiet whimpering, I'd let it go too - because usually, he'd stop after a bit. I kind of stood out there and listened and when it sounded like he needed me, I'd go back in. Make sense?

[brightside]

Thanks guys. I thought so. I'm so scared of it becoming CIO but I guess we just KNOW when its that real cry.

[MDHmommy]

If you're worried about it - don't let him go more than 60 seconds. See how it works, and adjust from there. You'll be able to tell. I'm not proud to say that I did CC with Marshall when he was about 6 mos. and beleive me, it was a DIFFERENT cry after 8 minutes had passed. I thought I'd come out of my skin. DH had to HOLD me to keep me from going in there. WTF was I thinking??!!
Anyway, you won't be able to stop yourself if you feel like he needs you, and that's how it should be
Keep us posted.
x