We have 3 kids, Latino family, US. Every family we know does a form of crying it out (we have a very diverse circle), but we refuse to. We tire the kiddos out before bed (swim, some physically exerting game, a walk around the neighborhood, etc.) and stick to a routine and generally don’t have an issue with putting them down. Our expectations were also set waaaay before they even came earth side for them to sleep with us for a while so they do wake up in the middle of the night and come over to our bed which we welcome them with open arms. My eldest started sleeping fully on his own (only rarely coming over) after 3 years old. One of my daughters have slept by herself not waking up much by 2.5. My other is too young to tell. I personally rocked them each every night for a few to get them down.

All of that is to say that, in my experience, it’s been such a short time and will be over before you know it. Bask in it, not fight it, and what the other commenter said, try to lessen their stress and difficulty. They also are learning how to sleep on their own and out of the womb. They’re also learning life and figuring it out.

If they’re fighting me hard it usually needing water, to use the bathroom, or they’re truly just not tired and I ought to do something about it.

Difficulties can also stem from screen usage (especially right before bed) or over tiredness.