Just the other day, I was reassuring a client that sleep training doesn’t mean giving up your social life. In fact, once your baby is a great sleeper, it’s easier to navigate occasional disruptions—like evenings out or even travel—without losing your progress. When everyone in the family is well-rested, flexibility becomes much more manageable. Here’s how to enjoy your evenings while protecting your baby’s sleep.

1. Embrace the 80/20 Rule

Sleep training is not about rigid perfection. Sticking to your baby’s sleep schedule 80% of the time allows for some flexibility 20% of the time without derailing your progress. Whether it’s a family celebration, a dinner with friends, or a spontaneous outing, small deviations are okay! This mindset gives you permission to enjoy life while keeping your baby’s sleep on track.

2. Plan Ahead for Evenings Out

One of my favorite things when my first son became a great sleeper was enjoying dinner at friends’ houses. Here’s how to do it without stress:

Create a Sleep-Friendly Space: Pack a portable crib or pack-and-play, and set it up in a quiet, dark room at your host’s home. Mimic your baby’s usual sleep environment as much as possible.
Stick to Familiar Routines: Do part of the bedtime routine, such as a story, cuddles, or a lullaby, to help your baby settle into sleep.
Enjoy Adult Time: Once your baby is snoozing, you can relax and enjoy socializing.
Gently Transfer Home: When it’s time to leave, carefully transfer your baby from the portable crib to the car seat and then back into their crib at home. A quick wake-up during the process is okay; simply follow your usual bedtime cues to settle them again.

3. Adjust Bedtime When Necessary

If your outing might delay bedtime by an hour or so, don’t stress. Slight adjustments are usually manageable for a well-rested baby. Plan for an earlier nap or a longer wind-down routine the next day if needed.

4. Hire a Trusted Sitter

Sleep-trained babies are a sitter’s dream! When you know your baby can confidently sleep through the night, take advantage of the opportunity for adult-only evenings. Share your baby’s sleep schedule and routine with the sitter to ensure consistency. You can enjoy your evening knowing your little one is in good hands and getting the rest they need.

5. Communicate Expectations

Whether you’re leaving your baby with grandparents, friends, or a sitter, clear communication is key. Share your baby’s sleep schedule and tips for soothing if needed. This helps maintain their routine and ensures they feel secure while you’re out.

6. Be Kind to Yourself

Parenting is about balance. While maintaining your baby’s sleep routine is essential, so is meeting your own social and emotional needs. Don’t stress if everything doesn’t go perfectly. Sleep training is about creating flexibility for your family, not limiting it.

Why Sleep Training Makes It Easier

When your baby has a solid sleep foundation, occasional schedule changes—whether for an evening out or a trip—are less likely to cause issues. Sleep-trained babies are adaptable, and so are you! With everyone well-rested, you’ll feel confident stepping out of the house for those much-needed social moments.

So go ahead, plan that dinner or evening out. Your baby’s great sleep habits mean you can have the best of both worlds: a happy, rested baby and a life full of joy and connection. You deserve it!