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Exhausted and Skeptical? Here’s Why Finding the Right Coach Delivers Results
As a certified Gentle Sleep Coach and founder of Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I often hear from exhausted parents who feel like they've tried everything to help their child sleep better, but nothing has worked. They are understandably skeptical and wonder if sleep coaching will be any different. Today, I want to address this concern and explain why my approach at Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching stands out and how it can make a significant difference for your family.
We have tried everything with no success, how is your process any different? Will Sleep Coaching work for me?
It is natural that they would have skepticism wondering how I will be any different from all the other things they have tried. This concern is valid.
First, let me acknowledge your journey. Trying to find a solution for your child's sleep issues can be incredibly challenging and frustrating. Many parents come to me after attempting numerous methods, from sleep training books and advice from well-meaning friends to various online resources. The frustration of seeing little to no improvement despite your best efforts can be disheartening. I understand this, and it's why I approach each family's situation with empathy and a tailored strategy. Additionally, I have a 100% Sleep Success Guarantee!
A Personalized, Child-Led Approach
What sets Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching apart is our personalized, child-led approach. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, our sleep coaching process is tailored to meet the unique needs of your child and your family. I take into account your child's temperament, developmental stage, and any specific challenges you may be facing. My goal is to create a customized sleep plan that respects your parenting style and aligns with your family's values.
A Holistic, Science-Based Method
My process is rooted in sleep science, behavioral science, and attachment theory. This means I look at the whole picture – not just the sleep patterns but also your child's overall well-being. Factors such as nutrition, daily routines, and emotional needs are all considered. By addressing these underlying elements, we can create a more comprehensive and effective sleep plan.
Support and Guidance Every Step of the Way
Another key difference is the level of support and guidance I provide. Sleep coaching is not just about giving you a plan and sending you on your way. At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I offer ongoing support and adjustments as needed. This includes regular check-ins, troubleshooting, and encouragement. Our Sleep Strategy Session is a collaborative space where both parents' needs, wants, goals, and comfort levels are discussed, ensuring everyone is on board and committed to the process.
Building Consistency and Confidence
Consistency is crucial for success in sleep coaching. I work closely with you to ensure that everyone involved in your child's care is on the same page. This unified approach helps to build a predictable and secure environment for your child, which is essential for developing healthy sleep habits. My coaching also focuses on building your confidence as a parent, empowering you with the knowledge and tools you need to support your child's sleep journey.
Realistic Expectations and Measurable Progress
We set realistic expectations and celebrate measurable progress. Sleep coaching is not an overnight fix, but with dedication and consistency, you will see improvements. My goal is to help you achieve sustainable, long-term success. Many families who have felt hopeless and exhausted have found renewed hope and energy through our process.
Will Sleep Coaching Work for Me?
The answer is yes, if you are ready to commit to the process and work collaboratively. Success in sleep coaching requires patience, consistency, and a willingness to adapt as needed. At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I am here to support you every step of the way, providing the expertise, encouragement, and personalized strategies to help your child sleep better and your family thrive.
Success Stories from Other Families
To give you a sense of hope and reassurance, I encourage you to watch our collection of video testimonials from other families who once shared your concerns. These parents, too, had tried countless methods with no success, but they found relief and remarkable improvement through our personalized sleep coaching process. Hearing their stories can provide you with a sense of community and confidence that you are not alone in this journey and that positive change is possible.
This couple had fallen down the "rabbit hole" of sleep solutions and were left still struggling with their 10 month old daughter's sleep when they reached out to me .BUTTON: Watch Their Story
This Dad Researched Many Coaches & Picked Me
Sleep Success Story: After 2 failed attempts with other sleep coaches, Joanna was the one that solved all the sleep struggles!
If you have tried everything with no success, know that you are not alone. My unique, child-led, and personalized approach at Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching can make a significant difference. By addressing the root causes of sleep issues, providing ongoing support, and creating a cohesive and consistent plan, I can help you achieve the restful nights you and your child deserve. Remember, every step you take towards better sleep is a step towards a happier, healthier family.
Are you struggling with your child’s sleep? Could you use some support?
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
From “Reactive” to “Intentional” Co-Sleeping: Gentle Sleep Coaching Can Help
Sleep Coaching and co-sleeping can not only coexist but complement each other beautifully. However, it is important to identify what kind of “co-sleeping” is actually happening in your family bed. Are you practicing “Intentional Co-Sleeping’ or “Reactive co-sleeping”
Intrigued?
Reactive Co-Sleeping
I often see families who have accidentally become “reactive co-sleepers” …Meaning they have turned to co-sleeping out of sheer desperation, struggling to find any way to get their little ones to sleep.
These parents are usually exhausted and overwhelmed, often resorting to unsafe practices simply to catch a few hours of rest. By accident and by sure exhaustion, they may not be following essential safety guidelines, which can increase the risks associated with co-sleeping.
Most families in this reactive co-sleeping predicament admit that NO-ONE is sleeping well and they are not happy with the arrangement, but they literally do not know what else to do.
Intentional Co-Sleeping
Whereas, “Intentional co-sleeping” means you have this a family goal and family value and you have created a ‘family bed” following the specific AAP Guidelines. This is a decision that your family has thought about, researched and implemented, not something you accidentally starting doing on a bad night. Many families who share a family bed tend to be interested in the entire attachment parenting philosophy and rely on Dr. Sears for proper guidance. Also a true family bed is typically with a mattress on the floor and limited pillows, sheets/blankets and comforters.It is 100% a lifestyle choice. This can be a viable option for many families seeking closeness and convenience, especially for breastfeeding mothers, but it only works well if following all the safety guidelines and if both the child and both PARENTS ARE SLEEPING WELL (example: this is not a situation where dad on the coach complaining about no longer having access to the master bed–that’s reactive co-sleeping)!
While it's crucial to follow safety guidelines to minimize risks, recent research suggests that with proper precautions, co-sleeping can be both safe and beneficial. It's important to create a sleep environment that supports your baby's well-being and the parents sleep needs as well. By staying informed and making thoughtful choices, you can integrate co-sleeping into your family's sleep routine in a way that promotes healthy, restful sleep for everyone.
While co-sleeping has its benefits, it’s crucial to understand how it can be done safely and effectively.
Always, especially when integrating Gentle Sleep Coaching principles, My goal is to guide these families towards creating an intentional, safe, nurturing sleep environment while helping them establish healthy sleep habits for their children.
Through compassionate support and evidence-based strategies, we can transform those sleepless nights into peaceful, restful ones for both parents and babies.
Understanding Co-Sleeping
Co-sleeping, or sharing a bed with your baby, is a practice that has been used by parents around the world for centuries. It fosters closeness, eases nighttime breastfeeding, and can help both parents and babies sleep better. However, co-sleeping has also been the subject of much debate, particularly concerning the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
What Does the Research Say about Safety and Co-Sleeping?
The AAP advises against bed-sharing with infants due to the increased risk of suffocation, entrapment, and SIDS. They recommend that babies sleep in the same room as their parents but on a separate sleep surface, such as a crib or bassinet, for at least the first six months, ideally up to a year. This room-sharing practice, without bed-sharing, is shown to significantly reduce the risk of SIDS. The AAP also emphasizes the importance of placing babies on their backs to sleep, using a firm sleep surface, and keeping soft bedding and toys out of the sleep area to create a safe sleep environment.
Recent studies have shed new light on the risks associated with co-sleeping. According to an NPR article and a study published in PLOS ONE, the risks of SIDS in co-sleeping situations have been dramatically inflated. For "low-risk" infants, while bed-sharing does increase the risk slightly, the overall risk remains very low. Another study found no increased risk of SIDS for routine co-sleepers, provided certain safety measures are followed.
Safety Measures for Co-Sleeping
For families who choose to co-sleep, it is essential to do so intentionally and safely. Here are some key guidelines to ensure a safe co-sleeping environment:
Firm Mattress: Use a firm mattress with tight-fitting sheets. Avoid waterbeds, sofas, and recliners, which can increase the risk of suffocation.
Remove Hazards: Keep pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals away from the baby to reduce the risk of suffocation and overheating.
Positioning: Place the baby on their back to sleep, which is the safest position for reducing the risk of SIDS.
Avoid Gaps: Ensure there are no gaps between the mattress and the wall or headboard where the baby could become trapped.
Parental Awareness: Parents should be aware of their baby’s presence at all times and avoid alcohol, drugs, or medications that can impair their ability to wake up.
Non-Smoking Environment: Ensure that the sleeping environment is free of smoke, as smoking significantly increases the risk of SIDS.
Integrating Gentle Sleep Coaching with Co-Sleeping
Gentle Sleep Coaching practices can be effectively integrated with co-sleeping practices. Here are some tips to harmonize the two:
Consistent Bedtime Routine: Establish a calming and consistent bedtime routine that signals to your baby that it’s time to sleep. This can include a bath, reading a book, or gentle rocking.
Responsive Parenting: Gentle Sleep Coaching emphasizes responding to your baby’s needs. If your baby wakes up during the night, respond with comfort and reassurance without immediately resorting to feeding or picking up.
Sleep Associations: Help your baby develop positive sleep associations, such as a special blanket or a lullaby, which can soothe them even when they are not in your bed.
Education and Support: Educate yourself about safe co-sleeping practices and seek support from sleep coaches, pediatricians, or lactation consultants if needed.
Sleep Training and Co-Sleeping Can Work.
As a certified Gentle Sleep Coach,I have dedicated my career to helping families find the best sleep solutions that work for their family and create safe sleep environments. For more information and personalized guidance on Gentle Sleep Coaching and co-sleeping, feel free to reach out to Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching. Together, we can ensure your family enjoys peaceful and restful nights.
If you are struggling with your child’s sleep, hope and help are available.
Are you struggling with your child’s sleep? Could you use some support?
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Once Too Tired for More Kids—Now Thriving and Expecting Baby #2
For many parents, the struggle of sleepless nights and constant exhaustion can be so overwhelming that the idea of having another child seems unimaginable.
The lack of sleep takes a toll on every aspect of their lives—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It isn’t just about surviving the night anymore, it was about whether they could truly handle expanding their family.
For a lot of families, the decision to have more children gets put on hold because sleep challenges are just too draining.
I received the sweetest text message from a previous client, Kasie who was in that exact space. She shared a lovely family photo along with some exciting news: she’s pregnant with her second baby! Can you believe it?
Kasie and her husband had a really tough time with their first baby’s sleep. In fact, they weren’t even sure if they’d ever be ready for a second child because of how challenging their sleep journey had been. But here they are, thriving, well-rested, and expecting a new baby!
Below is a video testimonial where they talk about what life was like “before” working with me and how after sleep coaching they had a whole new life…one that included the possibility of being well-rested enough to consider a new pregnancy.
Kasie came to me when her son was just 9 months old. She and her husband were exhausted. They were trying everything to get him to sleep – co-sleeping, rocking him for hours, cluster feeding all night long. Their home was full of tension, and their energy levels were bottoming out.
Even their pediatrician simply handed them a sleep training book without any guidance. Kasie was feeling so anxious and tired and felt at her wits' end. She had heard of sleep training but wasn’t comfortable with methods that involved letting her baby "cry it out."
Alternatives to Cry it Out Methods
That’s when they found my Gentle Sleep Coaching program. Together, we built a sleep plan that didn’t involve leaving her baby to cry alone. With a better understanding of the science behind sleep, Kasie and her husband were able to gently guide their baby into learning sleep skills.
And what a transformation!
Now, Kasie and her husband actually enjoy bedtime. They even fight over who gets to put their little one to sleep because it’s such a peaceful and sweet experience.
Their son takes two solid naps each day and sleeps through the night for 12 to 13 hours.
They’ve gotten their evenings back, their bedroom back, and most importantly, their sense of peace back.
Jake, her husband, also found a renewed connection with his son and their family, feeling more capable and trusted as a dad.
Now, they’re thrilled to be expecting their second child, and sleep is no longer a source of anxiety – it’s a peaceful and happy part of their lives.
If you’re feeling like Kasie once did – tired, anxious, and unsure of where to turn for help with your baby’s sleep – I want you to know there’s hope. It doesn’t have to be this way, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. Reach out, and let’s work together to create a sleep plan that works for your family.
Are you struggling with your child’s sleep? Could you use some support?
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
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Well, hello, I'm Joanna with Blissful Baby. Sleep Coaching. And this is another success call. And we just finished sleep coaching their baby boy who was nine months old at the time. So you guys, thank you so much for being here. What was it like before you called me Mommy? We were not sleeping. We had a grumpy baby.
We had a milestone madness baby, who was just stuck in trying to do all of the things because he wasn't sleeping well. Super cranky. He was also nap crutching, so you couldn't put him down. You had to rock him to sleep. So both of us were having to sacrifice four to five hours to have him attempt to nap and then co-sleep with mom and cluster feed throughout the night.
So life became very difficult through that 'cause it was only growing worse. The naps were going away. He was refusing our efforts to put him down. So we, we felt like we were running out of options and the ability to actually help him go to sleep. Sleep, yeah, exactly. 'cause he was also growing massively. Right. So at nine months he was like 24 pounds.
So physically he was just this big hefty boy. Yeah. And, and you were rocking and rocking and rocking and rocking multiple times a day. And then for mom cluster feeding all night. Yep. In the co-sleeping environment and essentially cluster feeding all day. 'cause how else would he grow to 24 pounds at nine months? Right. Like no hands free time for you.
I mean, mom had zero hands free time. Yeah. She was rocking, holding, nursing, changing, or I don't know. You didn't get to do anything. No. Nope. No life. No. Absolutely not. There was no time for just me ever. Never ever. Yeah. And I also recall he was doing a lot of mommy preferencing.
Right. He was being Yes. At night. He would let Jake help during the day, but not at night. Nope. He had to be on me, physically on me throughout the night to sleep. So he was laying across my body and having to nurse. And he was nursing pretty much every hour throughout the night. So neither of us were sleeping.
It was miserable. Yeah. Yeah. So then you decided like, I need help. And so what made you decide to reach out? What, was there a breaking point had you heard about coaching? Like what, what led you to the search for a sleep coach? I had heard about sleep training. We had all the books. Our, we even went to our pediatrician and asked,
what should we do? And he just slapped a hand in, slapped the book in our hands and said, here, here's the, here's a sleep coaching book. Just sleep, train him. And from a anxious and tired mom, I was, you know, just sort of shocked at like, okay, well what the heck? Like what, what does this mean?
What I do? And so I was desperate just to, to get help. Things. Our household was becoming less peaceful. We had a grumpy baby. And then there was just a lot of tension throughout our home that we were just, we, we desperately needed something to change. Yeah. Yeah. And that's the thing you guys is that sleep deprivation is like,
it's one thing for yourself to be sleep deprived, but then when both parents are sleep deprived and overwhelmed, then the baby's grumpy and needy and kind of like moving around all day. It's like there's just no peace. And then you, you end up like bickering with each other and just being short fused and it's nobody's fault. Right. It's like, it's like the,
the situation just starts to build upon itself where you're like, oh my God. Like every day is just this like, oh my god today. And then dreading the nighttime, like, how is it gonna be tonight? How much sleep are we gonna get or not get? Right? So yeah. So, so, so you guys obviously decided to,
you know, ask for help and you decided to do gentle sleep coaching. And I remember you were quite afraid or very tentative about like sleep training. You were like, ah, I've heard bad things. So tell me what you had heard or what your assumptions were about sleep training or sleep coaching and, and then I'd like to hear about what the actual reality was for you when we worked together.
So I, I had only ever heard of either the cried out method or doing like, like maybe even a ferber method of just like really just letting your baby cry. And I was very uncomfortable with that. It felt, it, i, it didn't sit well with me. And so I was so nervous to start and, but I was so like at the point where like,
we need to do something. And so thankfully with a gentle sleep coach, I didn't have to let him cry. I didn't have to leave him alone to figure it out himself. We had a like understanding of the Sleep Science behind it and the why. And then we were able to implement it with like more knowledge on the backend that we had already understood.
And it made it so much easier whenever it came time to actually train him but not have him cry it out. And we, whatever like method we did, we knew like the purpose and, and a lot more comfortable with it that way doing the coaching. Yeah. And dad did the coaching. Yes. So I wanna, I wanna talk to dad about that because a lot of times when a,
a baby starts presenting with kind of this mommy preference issue or this dominance with the nursing or the has to be mommy all night, it really kind of puts dad outside the help zone. So wasn't that kind of your experience that you, here you were like, I'm ready to help all, all day, all night and yet tell me about that. Yeah,
all in all, it, it's sort of defeating to know that you're an equal parent and able to help, but you can't just because the, that's the season that your baby's in or that's, that's what they've learned they need and you just can't provide the same emotional connection that a mother and a baby can. So trying to be a helpful member of a family is hard once your baby is in a position that they can't be helped by you.
Right. So as the dad trying to do all that, you can, there's a point in time where you can try, but that, that's all you can do is try and you need help. Right. Exactly. And that was the thing is that, that dad was like so available and interested and committed to helping. Mom was like, please,
I need, I need this baby to let you help too. And that's one of the reasons why working with a gentle sleep coach is so great is because we made, as part of our kind of wishlist and our goals is dad the center of our sleep coaching journey. That that dad and baby boy dad was the primary nighttime coach all the way through the process,
all the way through the weaning. And the benefit of that was number one, mom got a break. Hallelujah. Right. Mom, but also Jake, like what's the result of that? Like how, what is life now in terms of your parenting relationship with your son? It's, it's night and day now, instead of only wanting mom, sometimes they'll come to me instead of mom.
So it, it's definitely reinvigorating to see that your, your young child as they grow, want you to be a part of their life. And you can see that. So it, it's, it, it breathes this new like hope and like love into your relationship. Oh my God, that's so beautiful. Yeah. I mean, so I mean,
who, who doesn't want hope and love from their own child And more importantly, like you're able, you're like a master at bedtime and nap time now. Dad is like the master of that. Right? And so mom can just be like, okay, I see ya. I'm gonna be gone for the day or I'm gonna go out this evening. And dad's got the whole thing under control,
right? Yes. We've got mom's moving around 'cause the baby boy's on the move. Yeah. So isn't doesn't that feel great dad to like just have all that one-on-one with him, him, but also just feeling like you've got it. Like there's no intimidation. Like it's not like mom's not freaking out when you're in charge and you're not getting backseat driving from mom.
It's like just you and your son and you guys are, you guys got your system Going through the process, through you really built a new trust in our relationship. 'cause it is not just you being able to be the sleep coach. It's showing to your spouse that you, they can trust you and you're a capable spouse. It, it, it's much more than just doing it like any,
anyone could be coached, but it, it's a real strong relationship to trust the other to be able to do that. Especially when you're dealing with postpartum and those things where your spouse, you as the the husband or or whoever may not understand what it's like to go through that. And you really need to, to reestablish that, that trust with each other.
And going through coaching like this was able to, to, to do exactly that with us. I was able to show that not only can I do it, but that it's okay to be able to step away because our child is in a safe space. Our child has been taught the skills. Our child now has the tools to do it and you don't have to worry anymore.
So good. Right. Take take it takes out all the worry, meaning that your child has their sleep skills for independent sleep and that whether dad does it or whether mom does it or the babysitter does it, or grandma comes to town, the child can do that under any conditions. And it's no longer dependent on a certain caregiver. Exactly. Yes.
And that gives freedom. Right. And then your child can have such an enriching environment with all these other caregivers because the bedtime routine is pressure when it is, when a child tru truly knows their sleep skills. Is the bedtime routine the cutest, funnest thing ever? Yes. Yeah. Who knew, who knew bedtime could be fun. Yeah. Right.
Because it used to be probably a nightmare. Yeah. And now it's like, oh, it's so sweet. Now we fight over who gets to put over the bed. Yeah. Because It's so precious and so cute. And then boom. And, and by the way, let's talk about what it looks like now we know what it looked like before.
What does life look like now? What time does he go to bed? What time does he wake up? What's going on with naps? So he takes two naps a day. He goes to bed around six or seven and sleeps usually about 12 hours every night, sometimes 13. And then he doesn't wake up through the night. We both sleep completely through the night.
We have our bedroom back, we have our quiet time back. I can have me time in the evening, I can do my skincare. I can take a shower like postpartum mom's know, like I just wanna shower, you know, I just wanna shower by myself, shower, watch a show. Like I can go run errands or do anything. And I know that he's asleep.
He's gonna, he's good for the rest of the night. Dad can go do his thing. I can do my thing. It's, it's so peaceful. So peaceful. Yes. That I love that. Okay. So if you guys met a family that would deprived, but they, and they, they, they kind of already knew that they needed help but they were super afraid.
Oops. Oh no. Oh no. We're, let's see, I think they might've run outta battery. Okay. I will talk just for a minute. The question I was gonna ask was what if you met a family that was sleep deprived but they were afraid of sleep ca sleep training And they were, they wanted to do something to help their babies sleep independently,
but they were afraid because they felt sleep training was bad or scary. So I will probably do a part two video with them because that was a big concern of theirs, of whether or not this was the right thing to do. And I think it's wonderful to hear a parent's perspective on recognizing that when sleep coaching is done based on Sleep Science behavioral science and attachment theory and it's done in a very methodical,
sequential way that meets the temperament of the child and also matches with the values of the family and the nursing goals of the mom. That over the course of two to three weeks we can get that child sleeping through the night and it's not high drama and it's very educational for the parents. And we build that parent-child bond actually stronger. Like the dad here said is that he didn't really have that bond with the child before sleep coaching and the bond actually occurred because of the sleep coaching.
So thank you for listening to another sleep success story. I might have them come back to talk about that they are now true converts of the benefits of gentle sleep coaching. So thank you for listening.
The Parenting Skill You Didn’t Know You Needed: Brené Brown on Apologies
As parents, we know how important it is to model the behaviors we want our children to learn, especially when it comes to communication and emotional well-being. Recently, I listened to an incredible episode of Brené Brown's Unlocking Us podcast, and I’m excited to share it with the Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching community. This episode dives deep into the power of a proper apology—a life skill I believe all parents and caregivers need to master. You can listen to it here.
One of the key takeaways from this episode is that apologies aren’t just for resolving conflict—they are tools for building trust and emotional intelligence in our children.
As parents, we often teach our kids to say "sorry," but are we showing them how to apologize sincerely?
A heartfelt, genuine apology can strengthen our bonds with others and demonstrate accountability, empathy, and respect. It’s something I wish we all started learning in school and revisited throughout our lives!
This concept is closely tied to parenting strategies and how we approach our relationships with our children. Whether you’re a parent struggling with sleep routines or a caregiver working through behavioral challenges, knowing how to apologize effectively is a game-changer. Children look to us for guidance, and by modeling a proper apology, we teach them how to handle mistakes with grace and understanding.
In my work as a sleep consultant, I see how powerful communication is in building trust and consistency in a child’s routine. Apologies can be part of that—whether it’s acknowledging that something didn’t go as planned or simply addressing a challenging moment with honesty and humility. Sleep coaching is all about creating healthy habits, and clear, empathetic communication is at the core of that process.
I can’t recommend this podcast episode enough. It’s a valuable resource not just for enhancing adult relationships but also for creating a positive, emotionally intelligent environment for our children. So, the next time your child is napping or you have a moment of quiet, I encourage you to tune in.
Let me know your thoughts after listening—I’m confident it will resonate with you as much as it did with me.
Are you struggling with your child’s sleep? Could you use some support?
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Sleep Coaching: Embracing Adaptation Over Discipline
There is both a deep-seeded FEAR and BIG MISPERCEPTION that a parent needs to become “a hardcore disciplinarian” when attempting to sleep train their child, especially if the child is older and verbal, as in 3-6 years of age. The answer is a resounding NO.
Navigating the realm of sleep coaching can feel daunting, especially when faced with the notion of becoming a rigid disciplinarian. However, at Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I approach sleep training with a different ethos – one centered around empathy, understanding, and adaptability.
Contrary to common parenting myths, effective sleep coaching doesn’t mean you need to be rigid or adopt authoritarian tactics. "Locking the door and imposing strict rules would never have worked for my daughter," one client shared. "Thankfully, Joanna’s gentle approach is nothing like that." At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I’ve designed a method rooted in empathy, understanding, and adaptability, rather than punishment or strict enforcement.
Sleep coaching with me is about respecting each child’s individuality and guiding them gently towards predictable and calming routines and healthy sleep patterns.
As one parent said,
“I thought I had to be the ‘brick wall,’ but with Joanna’s support, we realized our role wasn’t to enforce rules, but to avoid power struggles and listen.”
As one parent said, "I thought I had to be the ‘brick wall,’ but with Joanna’s support, we realized our role wasn’t to enforce rules, but to avoid power struggles and listen."
Here, you won’t find a one-size-fits-all solution; instead, you'll discover a personalized, family-centered approach that fosters a strong, connected relationship with your child.
At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I understand that every child is unique and that's why my approach focuses on personalized guidance, tailored to suit the individual needs of each family. "Joanna taught us that it's not about blocking our children from options. It's about gently guiding them and removing sleep crutches at their own pace." Learn more about my Stairway to Sleep process.
My methodology is built on the foundation of empathy and collaboration. I believe in fostering strong parent-child relationships through active listening and responsiveness.
Here is what parents had to say
“No need to doubt or question the process. Joanna’s approach is anything but cookie-cutter. ”
“Joanna also taught us how to do better for ourselves and our kids.”
“Open yourself up to this process. You’ll be amazed at the journey it takes you on.”
At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, we believe that every family deserves restful nights and peaceful sleep. By prioritizing empathy, understanding, and adaptability, in working with families, I embrace adaptation over discipline and my clients have discovered a transformative approach to sleep coaching
Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching is characterized by accessibility and flexibility. I’m here to support families every step of the way, offering guidance that is customized and adaptable.
Still Wondering if I Can Help?
Please know that I do NOT advocate the "cry-it-out" method. As a certified Gentle Sleep Coach, I emphasize a guilt-free and gentle sleep coaching process that respects your child's developmental needs.
Let’s work together to restore peaceful nights for your family. Contact me today and I’ll be in touch within 24 hours with information on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
Join the "Sleep is Bliss Tribe"
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Honored be Featured and Share My Story in BOLD Journey Magazine – Read It Here!
I’m thrilled to share that I was recently featured on BOLD Journey in an article that explores my journey as a Certified Gentle Sleep Coach® and how I use gentle sleep coaching for babies and children to help families achieve peaceful nights and joyful days. The article, titled "Meet Joanna Clark," highlights how my own struggles with my daughter’s sleep issues shaped my mission to guide other parents facing similar challenges. I know firsthand how exhausting it is to care for a little one who struggles with sleep—and I’ve made it my purpose to become a trusted baby sleep consultant who’s helped thousands of families transform bedtime struggles into calm routines resulting in a well-rested and harmonious household.
Here’s what you’ll discover in the article:
✨ My Journey into Gentle Sleep Coaching
I share the story of how I became one of the first 50 certified baby sleep coaches in the U.S. and why I’m passionate about helping parents overcome sleepless nights. Like many parents, I was initially uncertain about seeking help for my daughter’s sleep issues, but the experience ultimately inspired me to make gentle sleep training for children accessible to every family.
✨ What Makes My Approach Unique
As a sleep consultant for babies and toddlers, I’m known as a “Sleep Detective,” looking at the family’s entire dynamic to tailor a baby sleep coaching plan that respects each child’s unique needs. My science-based, compassionate sleep coaching process goes beyond just sleep; it’s about restoring balance to every family I work with.
✨ My Mission to Help Parents Find Confidence
Through my role as a pediatric sleep expert, I’ve seen how gentle sleep coaching methods transform not only children’s sleep patterns but also the parents’ confidence and joy. There’s no need to rely on “cry-it-out” techniques when guilt-free sleep coaching can guide families step-by-step toward better sleep.
I’d be honored if you took a moment to read the article and share it with other parents who may be struggling with their child’s sleep. This feature on BOLD Journey is a testament to the possibilities for restful nights and confident parenting that come with gentle sleep coaching for babies.
Let’s continue spreading the word: peaceful sleep and restored joy are within reach for every family.
Are you struggling with your child’s sleep? Could you use some support?
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Helping CA Fire Victims and Supporting Children Through Difficult Conversations
As a mom and sleep coach based in California, my heart aches for the families who have been affected by the devastating California fires. The loss of homes, cherished memories, and a sense of safety is unimaginable. Recently, this tragedy hit close to home—my uncle in Malibu, and my dear friend of 40 years, Leigh and Sean of Altadena.This is a tragedy beyond words.
I hope that you and your families are safe during this difficult time. If your family has been impacted in any way, please know that my thoughts are with you. If there is a way I can offer additional support, don’t hesitate to reach out.
In times like these, the strength of a community truly shines. I wanted to share a great list of resources for anyone interested in helping families navigate the aftermath of these devastating events.
Reputable Places to Donate:
If you’d like to explore ways to contribute, this article from The Cut put together a comprehensive guide to helping wildfire victims that I want to share.
The Dream Center: An L.A.-based charitable organization offering emergency shelter to those evacuated in the Palisades and Eaton Canyon fires.
Friends in Deed: A nonprofit providing services for the homeless, opening its Bad Weather Shelter amid the fires.
California Fire Foundation: Provides resources to firefighters, fallen firefighters, their families, and the communities they serve.
Direct Relief’s California Fire Relief: Provides N-95 masks, medicine, and resources to health-care agencies and first responders in affected areas.
California Community Fund: A recovery fund dedicated to helping wildfire victims.
Baby2Baby’s Fire Relief Fund: Provides diapers, food, formula, and essentials to vulnerable children and families.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Accepts donations for those in need of food assistance during the fires.
With/Creators’ Donation Drive: Partners with local organizations to provide impacted women with sanitary products and hygiene essentials.
International Medical Corps: Delivers relief supplies, including hygiene and first-aid kits, to those affected.
Americares: Provides medicine and medical supplies to wildfire victims.
GlobalGiving California Wildfire Relief Fund: Helps provide immediate essentials and long-term relief to Californians impacted by the fires.
Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster-Relief Efforts: Provides aid to wildfire survivors.
Project HOPE: On the ground in Los Angeles, providing urgent aid to wildfire survivors.
Save the Children’s Emergency Fund: Works to deliver essentials to impacted children and families.
Help Displaced Animals:
Canine Rescue Club: Offers temporary foster care for dogs displaced by the wildfires.
Fi Dogs GoFundMe: Raises money for Los Angeles animal shelters.
Talking to Children About the Fires:
For families with young children, it’s important to address their questions and fears about the fires with care and empathy. Experts recommend using age-appropriate language to explain what’s happening and reassuring children that they are safe. Encourage them to express their feelings and validate their emotions—whether they’re scared, confused, or sad. Creating a safe space for discussion and offering comfort can help children process the situation and feel supported. More guidance on this topic can be found in this Los Angeles Times article.
For the families affected, I hope you know that you are not alone. As a community, we stand with you. For those of us in a position to give, let’s show what compassion and kindness can accomplish.
No Tears, More Sleep: From Mom-Only Nights to Peaceful Bedtime with Dad
No Tears, More Sleep: From Mom-Only Nights to Peaceful Bedtime with Dad
Meet Annie, a trained and certified nutritionist and her adorable 16-month-old daughter, who, like many of you, struggled with bedtime drama, multiple night-time wake ups and exhausting, long days with a cranky child.
Their family life was a whirlwind of sleepless nights and constant fatigue.
Mom was the only one that her daughter wanted at bedtime and middle of night.
Mom was depleted from all the care-taking
Dad wanted to help but he was “boxed out” from helping with bedtime or naps because the child depended solely on mom for every bedtime, nap and middle of night wakeup.
Mom managed all multiple wake-ups by nursing and co-sleeping for most of it.
Bedtime was way too late AND bedtime routines were lengthy and annoying, often requiring lots of nursing and rocking
Both parents were perpetually sleep-deprived, emotionally drained, and found it difficult to focus during the day.
Life was a blur of work or home duties with no personal time, where watching a full movie or enjoying an evening without interruption was a distant dream.
In summary, these challenging care-giving dynamics and lack of sleep was taking a toll on their everyday happiness, productivity and overall well-being.
Something needed to change, but HOW?
The decision to seek help came when Annie and her husband realized that their numerous hypotheses about their daughter’s sleep issues were leading nowhere. They needed help and a solution rooted in science. A referral from her Phycologist friend, who had successfully navigated similar sleep challenges through my one-on-one coaching services, encouraged Annie to reach out.
Both mom and dad were VERY NERVOUS OF TEARS and so worried about sleep training jeopardizing their parent-child bond. I provided Mom & Dad with a clear, customized plan based on scientific principles of sleep training and attachment theory. This resonated deeply with their family values and her background in nutrition and her appreciation for evidence-based approaches.
The Science of Sleep Coaching
Annie's appreciation and belief in the sleep science, behavioral science and attachment theory was a significant factor in her family’s success. This multi-disciplined scientific approach demystified the process and provided Annie with the confidence she needed to follow through.
One of the key elements of our method at Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching is the meticulous customization of sleep plans. Every child is unique, and so are their sleep needs. By creating micro-plans within the larger sleep plan, we ensured that Annie's daughter received the gentle guidance she needed to learn to sleep independently without all the tears and drama.
The results?
Annie's daughter now sleeps a solid 12 hours at night and takes a 1.5-hour nap during the day.
Bedtime routines have become a breeze, taking just 15 to 20 minutes.
Annie and her husband can now enjoy uninterrupted evenings, watch movies, and even travel without the fear of sleepless nights.
Their daughter, well-rested and full of energy, loves her crib—a significant shift from the early days of co-sleeping and sleep struggles.
They were thrilled with the no-drama and no tears approach rooted in science.
Dad LOVES doing bedtime now and having that one-on-one time with his daughter.
Annie shared how liberating it feels to reclaim their evenings and weekends, to travel confidently, and to socialize without the looming dread of bad bedtimes and a sleepless night. Even better, the bedtime routine has become a shared responsibility, with dad now fully involved and capable, further strengthening family bonds.
Curious to see how I can help your family? Watch Annie's sleep success story and see for yourself the difference a well-rested family can make.
Annie wants everyone to know:
"If you are doing everything to help your child go to sleep or go back to sleep and yet you are still struggling with sleep drama, it's time to consider a change based on scientific understanding. Sleep coaching with Joanna was a game-changer for us. It works because it’s based on science."
Join the Well-Rested Family Revolution
Annie’s journey is a testament to the power of gentle, science-backed sleep coaching. It’s not just about getting your baby to sleep through the night; it’s about reclaiming your life, your energy, and your happiness as a family. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, remember, you don’t have to navigate this alone. At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Still Wondering if I Can Help?
Please know that I do NOT advocate the "cry-it-out" method. As a certified Gentle Sleep Coach, I emphasize a guilt-free and gentle sleep coaching process that respects your child's developmental needs.
Let’s work together to restore peaceful nights for your family. Contact me today and I’ll be in touch within 24 hours with information on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
Join the "Sleep is Bliss Tribe"
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Celebrate Positive Parenting Month with Mr. Chazz’s Inspiring Tips
January marks Positive Parenting Awareness Month (PPAM), an annual initiative dedicated to introducing parents and caregivers to positive parenting strategies and connecting them with community resources that support family well-being. Established in California in 2020, PPAM has grown into a nationwide movement that emphasizes the importance of nurturing, guidance, and effective communication in raising resilient and confident children. This month serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to equip parents and caregivers with the tools they need to raise happy, healthy, and successful children.
At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, my mission has always been to provide parents with the resources, tools and knowledge they need to foster healthy sleep habits and a strong emotional connection with their children. As part of this mission, I love sharing resources that align with my child-led, compassionate approach. Today, I want to highlight the incredible work of Mr. Chazz, whose teachings resonate deeply with my values. He is perfect to feature during Positive Parenting month!
Giving Instruction to a Toddler
In one of Mr. Chazz's engaging videos, "Giving Instruction to a Toddler," he shares practical tips for communicating effectively with young children. His approach emphasizes patience, clarity, and empathy, helping parents navigate the often challenging task of giving instructions to toddlers.
Embracing Different Perspectives in Parenting
One of the aspects I truly admire about Mr. Chazz is his ability to provide fresh perspectives on everyday parenting challenges. In his video "Toddler Spills Red Juice. This is How to Handle It," Mr. Chazz showcases an insightful approach to handling accidents, highlighting the immense learning opportunities in these moments. By stepping back and reflecting on such situations, parents can turn potentially stressful incidents into valuable lessons for their children. This approach not only promotes understanding and empathy but also strengthens the parent-child bond.
You can watch the video “Toddler Spills Red Juice. This is How to Handle It” here.
Putting Your Child to Bed with a Song
One of my favorite videos from Mr. Chazz is "Putting Your Child to Bed with a Song." In this heartwarming video, he discusses incorporating the four components of connection into bedtime routines. This aligns perfectly with our belief in weaving connection into every aspect of our interactions with children.
You can watch this beautiful explanation of bedtime here.
More About Mr. Chazz
Mr. Chazz is a remarkable resource for parents and teachers, offering guidance on navigating the challenges and triumphs of raising and teaching children. His style fosters patience and empathy, encouraging a positive and supportive environment for children to thrive.
Mr. Chazz's philosophy of becoming an "improvenist" rather than a perfectionist is particularly inspiring. As he wisely says, "The goal isn’t to be perfect every day, the goal is to just be a little bit better every day." This mindset aligns beautifully with our approach at Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, where we emphasize progress over perfection.
For those interested in exploring more of Mr. Chazz's work, you can find his insightful and quick videos on various platforms:
Additionally, his Brain State Posters are a fantastic resource for parents and educators looking to understand and support the emotional states of children.
Celebrating Positive Parenting Month Together
Together, let’s celebrate this special month by embracing compassionate strategies, growing alongside our children, and continuing to show up for them—and for ourselves—a little better every day.
Are you struggling with your child’s sleep? Wondering if I can help?
Please know that I do NOT advocate the "cry-it-out" method. As a certified Gentle Sleep Coach, I emphasize a guilt-free and gentle sleep coaching process that respects your child's developmental needs.
Let’s work together to restore peaceful nights for your family. Contact me today and I’ll be in touch within 24 hours with information on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
Join the "Sleep is Bliss Tribe"
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.