Learning to fall asleep alone is a part of learning independence and achieving autonomy.
Sleep problems arise most likely when either the child or the parents have a difficult time believing that the child can make it alone.
Everyone wakes up at night, however we typically fluff up the pillow, change sides, and fall back asleep.
Every child needs to learn this from a very early age.
If you are past that point, and your child wakes up at night, it might take a while to develop a new and healthy routine.
Not every parent believes in letting their child cry themselves to sleep, so perhaps you could try "the bedside" method of teaching your child to fall asleep on her own.
First, establish a nightly bedtime routine: dim lights as bedtime approaches, lower noises and other stimuli, give him a bath, a baby massage, read a book, etc.
This nightly routine will teach your child what to expect and create a sense of security.
You can offer him a transition object, like a baby blanket or a plush toy.
This would be appropriate for children over 9 months of age, as it would help them transition from day- to nighttime activities.
After reading a book, lay your child down in his crib and tuck him in.
Sit down by the crib.
When he stands up and cries, lay him back down, tuck him in, and in a soothing voice reassure him.
When your son falls asleep, leave the room.
He will most likely wake up later on and cry, so just repeat the routine described above.
With time, you might start to gradually move your chair away from the crib until it is out of the room.
Suggested reading: Richard Ferber, M.
D.
Solve Your Child's Sleep Problems