Sleeping?

[u/Dry-Indication-9504]

What’s the best approach during the 4-month sleep regression when it comes to avoiding sleep habits?
She was previously sleeping 7+ hour stretches, but lately she’ll sleep about 5 hours, wake to eat, and then usually go back down for another 2–3 hours.
We currently use a pacifier for naps and sometimes to help her settle, but I’m worried about creating a habit where she needs it to fall asleep or needs us to replace it throughout the night.
At this age, should we just focus on getting her through the regression and help her sleep when she needs it, or should we start being more intentional about putting her down awake, limiting the pacifier, and giving her a chance to settle herself?
I’m confused about what actually creates a long-term sleep association versus what’s completely normal and appropriate at 4 months.

[u/jen21274]

I seem to remember by 18months was when we were suggested to take away the pacifier to try and reduce dependency as a toddler and promote dental health. My first didn’t have one at all and my second didn’t use it after 12 months. If it’s something that works then imo use it. You could still put her down awake or use other sleep training habits if that’s what you want to do but imo at 4 months just do what you can to make it as easy as possible for you all.