A Must-Watch Movie Clip — What It Reveals About Bedtime Battles & Mom’s Who Shame Themselves
If you’re a parent who has spent countless nights battling bedtime with your toddler, the new movie Nightbitch starring Amy Adams might just feel like it was made for you. This raw, darkly comedic, and utterly relatable film captures the sleepless chaos of early parenthood in a way that few movies dare to.
I’ll admit, I watched Nightbitch because I LOVE Amy Adams. I didn’t expect it to be a commentary on something I witness every day in my work with overwhelmed mothers. I see Amy’s character displaying the raw, unfiltered emotions so many moms feel but rarely speak aloud—the overwhelm, the struggle, the resentment toward other mothers who seem to have it all together, the frustration with their partner, and the endless questioning of their own choices. It’s a mirror held up to the unspoken realities of parenthood, and it’s as heart-wrenching as it is relatable.
And while I love this movie for its raw honesty and unflinching portrayal of parenting, it also breaks my heart. It reminds me of the countless parents I’ve spoken to who suffer in silence, convinced that they “should” be able to figure this out on their own. This feeling of “I should” keeps so many from seeking the help that could change everything.
But here’s the truth: sleep challenges are not your fault, and you don’t have to face them alone.
In one poignant scene, the mom (played masterfully by Adams) struggles to put her toddler to sleep, only to be overwhelmed by a tidal wave of guilt, exhaustion, and self-blame. She finds herself spiraling into the thought, “It’s all my fault.” Sound familiar?
Understanding Your Toddler’s Sleep Struggles
The bedtime battles you see on screen might mirror your own: a toddler refusing to sleep, endless requests for water, another story, another cuddle. It’s enough to make any parent question everything they’ve ever done.
Toddlers are navigating enormous developmental leaps—more independence, language bursts, and boundary-testing. Sleep resistance is often their way of asserting control, not a reflection of your parenting. That’s why it’s essential to have a plan, one rooted in compassion and structure, to guide your child toward better sleep habits.
What Sleep-Deprived Parents Can Take Away
Your Guilt Is Misplaced
Just like the mom in Nightbitch, many of us fall into the trap of thinking we’re doing something wrong. But guilt doesn’t solve sleep issues—knowledge and support do.You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
The movie serves as a reminder that parenting isn’t a solo act. If you’re feeling like a version of Nightbitch yourself, it’s time to ask for help. Whether that’s from your partner, a friend, or a certified sleep coach, support can make all the difference.Sleep Is a Skill That Can Be Learned
Just as your child learned to walk and talk, they can learn to sleep well. With the right tools and consistency, bedtime can become a peaceful, bonding experience—not a battle. It’s never too late, you have not “failed them.” You were not “Wrong” for enjoying the stages while it worked.
Why You Should Watch Nightbitch
Nightbitch shines a light on the complexities of modern motherhood. It validates the emotional rollercoaster of parenting, particularly for those who feel unseen in their struggles.
But let this movie be more than entertainment; let it be the nudge you need to tackle the bedtime battles head-on.
As much as I love this movie for its brilliant exploration of motherhood, it’s bittersweet. I see the mom’s guilt and frustration and think about the countless parents living this reality every day. So many moms believe they “should” know how to solve their child’s sleep struggles on their own, and that belief keeps them stuck in a cycle of exhaustion and doubt.
Please know this: asking for help isn’t giving up—it’s stepping up for yourself and your child. Sleep struggles don’t have to define your parenting journey, and they certainly don’t have to last forever.
Ready for Peaceful Nights?
If Nightbitch hit a little too close to home and you’re ready to stop dreading bedtime, I’m here to help. At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I specialize in transforming sleep-deprived chaos into calm, tailored to your family’s unique needs.
Because, as the movie shows, when you’re sleep-deprived, it’s easy to feel like a different version of yourself. Let’s work together to bring back the best version of you—and peaceful sleep for your little one.
Ready to reclaim your evenings? Let’s connect.
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.
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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.
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