Frequently Asked Questions
My child wakes up multiple times a night. What can I do?
This can be caused by various factors like hunger, teething, discomfort, or sleep associations. It's crucial to address underlying issues and consider gentle sleep training methods like fading, check-ins, or sleep ladders. Consult with a professional to design a plan best suited to your child's needs. Before implementing any specific strategies, it's crucial to identify the underlying reason for your child's frequent awakenings. This could involve various factors like:
Age and Developmental Stage: Young babies naturally wake more often due to smaller sleep cycles and feeding needs. Toddlers might experience separation anxiety or developmental leaps that disrupt sleep.
Sleep Environment: Is the room too hot/cold, noisy, or overly stimulating? Light leaks, uncomfortable bedding, or loud siblings can contribute to disrupted sleep.
Sleep Associations: Does your child rely on rocking, feeding, or your presence to fall asleep? These associations can lead to night wakings when they naturally cycle through sleep phases and miss their "cue."
Medical Issues: Consider if your child might be experiencing discomfort from allergies, teething, ear infections, or other medical conditions affecting their sleep.
Dietary Habits: Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks/foods close to bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep quality.
Once you understand the cause, you can implement strategies specific to your child's needs:
Newborns: Ensure regular feedings during the night, but try to gradually space them out to encourage longer stretches of sleep. Swaddling and white noise can be calming for some babies.
Toddlers: Establish a consistent bedtime routine with calming activities like baths, stories, and lullabies. Offer reassurance during night wakings without reinforcing sleep associations (e.g., rocking them back to sleep). Consider a gradual "check-in" approach where you comfort them briefly without picking them up.
Sleep Environment: Ensure a dark, quiet, and cool room with age-appropriate bedding. Consider blackout curtains, a white noise machine, and a comfortable sleep sack.
Breaking Sleep Associations: If reliance on certain rituals leads to night wakings, gradually shift towards independent sleep. Fade sleep aids like rocking or feeding over time, providing comfort and reassurance without repeating the association.
Addressing Medical Concerns: Consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical conditions impacting your child's sleep.
Dietary Adjustments: Limit sugary/caffeinated intake before bed and focus on a balanced diet that promotes healthy sleep patterns.
How can I help my toddler transition from a crib to a bed without sleep regressions?
Start by involving your child in choosing the new bed and bedding. Gradually introduce the bed alongside the crib for play and bedtime stories. Create a consistent bedtime routine and set clear expectations around staying in bed. Be patient and offer support during initial nights, but stick to boundaries for a smooth transition. I have a short course on this which gives you step by step strategy to make this transition as sooth and quick as possible. Crib to Bed Transition Course
Is sleep training bad for my baby? What methods are gentle and effective?
Gentle sleep training methods avoid prolonged crying and focus on teaching independent sleep skills. Popular methods include fading, check-ins and graduated extinction. Each child responds differently, so finding the gentlest approach that works for your family is essential. I offer sleep training options to suit every family’s needs and preferences.
My child fights bedtime every night. How can I create a calmer bedtime routine?
Establish a predictable and soothing bedtime routine with calming activities like baths, stories and cuddles. Avoid screen time before bed and ensure a sleep-conducive environment which means dark, cool and cozy. Address any underlying anxieties or fears your child might have. Consistency and gentle guidance are KEY.
What are some strategies for helping my child nap better during the day?
Create a consistent nap schedule with similar wake-up and nap times. Ensure a calming pre-nap routine which could be a shorter version of the bed time routine and a sleep-conducive environment. Try using white noise or soft music if needed OR sing a lullaby. You can use a sleep sack or swaddle for younger babies. Experiment with different nap lengths and wake-up times to find what works best for your child. You can also download sleep needs chart HERE for guidance. Navigating Naps Course
How much sleep does my child actually need for their age?
Sleep needs vary by age, but generally:
Newborns: 14-17 hours
Infants (4-12 months): 12-15 hours
Toddlers (1-3 years): 11-14 hours
Preschoolers (3-5 years): 10-13 hours
School-aged children (6-13 years): 9-11 hours
Teenagers (14-17 years): 8-10 hours
What are some common reasons why children have sleep problems?
Inconsistent sleep schedules
Sleep-disrupting environments (light, noise, temperature)
Unhealthy daytime habits (caffeine, late-night screen time)
Medical conditions (allergies, teething, digestive issues)
Developmental milestones (separation anxiety, growth spurts)
Sleep associations (rocking, feeding to sleep)
How can I adjust my child's sleep schedule for daylight saving time or travel?
Shift bedtime and wake-up times gradually in 15-minute increments over several days before or after the change. Maintain consistency with naps and meals during travel and use calming bedtime routines to help adjust to new environments.
Is it okay to let my child cry it out? What are some alternatives?
Cry-it-out is a controversial method, and there are gentler alternatives like fading, check-ins, and graduated extinction. These involve offering support and being responsive while teaching independent sleep skills without prolonged crying. Book a free consultation to find the best approach for your child.
I'm feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to start. What services do you offer?
I offer personalized sleep consultations to help families create customized sleep plans addressing your child's specific needs and concerns. I provide guidance, support and resources throughout the process to ensure successful sleep training and improved sleep for the whole family.
Where can I find additional resources or support for improving my child's sleep?
What format do your consultations offer?
I understand families have different needs and preferences, so I offer both in-home and virtual consultations to ensure accessibility and personalized support. Whether you prefer the comfort of your own space or the convenience of an online meeting, I can tailor my approach to fit your needs.
How do you specialize in different age groups (0-5 years)?
From delicate newborns to energetic preschoolers, each age group comes with unique sleep challenges. I have extensive experience working with children of all ages within this range, using age-appropriate strategies and understanding the developmental milestones that can impact sleep. My goal is to create a plan that fits your child's specific needs and promotes healthy sleep habits for the whole family.
I'm hesitant about sleep training methods. What sets your approach apart?
I believe in a gentle and supportive approach to sleep training, meeting families where they are in their parenting journey. I never judge existing routines or sleep strategies, instead focusing on understanding your concerns and collaborating to create a plan that feels comfortable and successful for everyone. My methods prioritize gentle guidance, respect for your child's individual needs, and building healthy sleep habits that last.
What type of support do you offer after the initial consultation?
I understand that implementing sleep changes takes time and support. My packages offer various levels of follow-up support, including phone calls, emails, and check-ins, to ensure you feel confident and empowered throughout the process. I'm here to answer questions, adjust the plan as needed, and celebrate your successes along the way.