Pat Method (Tassmetoden)
The child stays in bed while the parent provides a calming physical presence, for example by keeping a hand on the child's body. If the child continues to cry, additional comfort can be given. The method is similar to Pick Up / Put Down but involves less physical movement.
How the method works
The parent places the child in bed awake and puts a hand on the child's body (tummy, back or side) to provide calm and security. If the child cries, the parent can increase comfort through stroking or shushing, but the child is not picked up. The hand is gradually removed as the child begins to relax, and over time the physical contact is reduced until the child can fall asleep without touch.
What the research says
The pat method lacks specific research in the form of controlled studies. It is based on the same principles as other methods with gradual weaning of parental presence.¹ The method is often used clinically as a milder alternative to Pick Up / Put Down.
Potential benefits
- The child receives physical comfort without being lifted from bed
- Less physically demanding for the parent compared with Pick Up / Put Down
- Can be perceived as a secure and gentle method
Challenges
- –Can take a long time before the child falls asleep
- –The touch can sometimes stimulate the child rather than soothe them
- –Difficult to know when to remove the hand
Sources
- Mindell, J. A., et al. (2006). Behavioral treatment of bedtime problems and night wakings in infants and young children. Sleep, 29(10), 1263–1276.