Why Every Parent of a "Little Livewire" Needs to Read Why Won’t You Sleep? by Macall Gordon
I have spent over 13 years helping parents navigate the challenges of their children’s sleep. I always seek resources and support from thought leaders in the field of sleep science. Along the way, I’ve met incredible colleagues who share the same passion for empowering families to achieve beautiful, blissful sleep. One such person is Macall Gordon, also a Certified Gentle Sleep Coach® and an expert on the unique challenges faced by parents of alert babies whom she affectionately calls "little livewires."
Macall and I have known each other for over a decade and I often turn to her for support on cases with highly alert children. She has now taken all her research and knowledge and produced a groundbreaking book, Why Won’t You Sleep? Co-authored with my mentor, Kim West (the Sleep Lady herself).
This book is a game-changer for parents of intense, sensitive, and persistent children who seem to come into the world with just a little extra "spice" in their personality.
What types of kiddos are "Little Livewires"?
Macall describes “little livewires” as children who are:
Alert: They seem to have a built-in radar for everything going on around them and resist shutting down for sleep.
Intense: They make their needs known loudly and clearly, with a passion that's hard to ignore.
Sensitive: These kiddos feel the world deeply and are easily overstimulated by their environment.
Persistent: Once they set their mind to something, they stick with it—sometimes to the point of exhaustion (theirs and yours!).
Perceptive: They notice the smallest details, making them highly observant but also easily distracted.
Wondering if you have a “little livewire”?
These traits can make traditional sleep training approaches ineffective or even counterproductive. That’s why so many families of livewires often need one-on-one sleep coaching with me because I have loads of experience in working with this unique temperament.
Pediatric Sleep Research is finally “catching up” to link temperament and sleep and Macall is spearheading the discussion for parents.
About 20% of children are wired this way, yet the majority of sleep advice out there assumes a one-size-fits-all approach, often centered on the Ferber method (or variations of it). For many livewire children, being left alone to cry simply doesn’t work—it can even escalate their distress, leaving parents feeling defeated and unsure of where to turn.
Often parents of alert child need one-on-one coaching to customize the sleep plan around the temperament of an alert child. But Macall wanted to create with step-by-step guide to sleep training success for this unique population of “little livewires”.
The book offers a compassionate, science-backed approach that aligns beautifully with the gradual, parent-present methods I advocate for. Her strategies are tailored to the unique needs of livewire kids, emphasizing the importance of calming and supporting them as they learn to self-soothe.
What to Expect in Why Won’t You Sleep?
When I am doing one-on-one coaching to parents of alert children, one of the most powerful sentiments I hear is “finally someone understands me and my child and can finally help me”.
Macall Gordon’s Why Won’t You Sleep? does exactly that—it sees you, your child, and your unique journey with a level of empathy and insight that’s incredibly rare.
Macall’s book is the first book to help families who prefer a DIY approach to sleep train their child who has a “livewire” temperament.
Here’s what you’ll find inside this transformative book:
What is a Livewire Temperament, and How Does it Affect Sleep?
Understand the unique wiring of livewire children and why their sleep struggles differ so dramatically from their peers.
The Astonishing Gifts Underlying Challenging Traits
Learn to reframe your child’s intense and persistent traits as strengths that can be nurtured and celebrated.
Why Your Journey as a Parent Differs from Other Parents You Know
Discover why raising a livewire child is an entirely different experience—and why you’re not “just making it up.”
Why Sleep is So Hard for Livewires
Gain insight into how livewire traits like sensitivity, alertness, and persistence can create unique barriers to restful sleep.
A Step-by-Step, Research-Backed Approach to Improving Sleep
Follow a gradual, parent-present sleep coaching method that allows you to support your child through the process—without leaving the room or letting them cry it out.
How to Craft a Plan That’s Customizable and Tolerable
Build a sleep strategy tailored to your child’s temperament and your family’s needs.
What to Do if You Veer Off Course—and How to Get Back on Track
Learn how to pivot with grace when life happens (because it will) and still stay on the path to better sleep.
How to Take Care of YOU in All of This
Find practical advice for managing your own well-being amidst the demands of parenting a livewire child.
Bonus Resources
A downloadable workbook with worksheets and templates to help you craft, track, and refine your sleep plan. These tools make it easier to stay organized and focused, even during the most exhausting moments.
As a parent navigating the unique challenges of raising a spirited "livewire" child, you deserve resources that truly understand your journey. Why Won’t You Sleep? by Macall Gordon is more than just a book; it’s a guiding light for families who feel unseen by conventional sleep advice. With compassion, science-backed strategies, and an approach that celebrates your child’s individuality, this book offers the tools to turn sleepless nights into peaceful rest for the whole family.
Remember, your child’s traits are their superpowers, and with the right support, their strengths will shine brightly. If you’ve been searching for a DIY resource and approach that truly “gets it,” look no further. This is your invitation to approach sleep—and parenting—with renewed hope, confidence, and understanding. Grab your copy today and discover how you can embrace the magic of your little livewire while nurturing the peaceful sleep they (and you) deserve.
Additional support for Parents of little livewires:
The Fussy Baby Site Support Facebook Group
The Fussy Baby Site Support Facebook Group is a lifeline for parents navigating the challenges of raising high-need, colicky, or spirited babies and toddlers. This compassionate and understanding community offers a safe space to share your struggles, ask questions, and receive advice from parents who’ve been there. From sleepless nights to tricky transitions, you’ll find practical tips and emotional support to help you through the ups and downs of parenting a fussy baby. Join the group today and connect with others who understand what you’re going through—you’re not alone!
The Spirited Child Support Facebook Group
The Spirited Child Support Facebook Group is a supportive space for parents of alert, intense, and energetic children aged preschool through 8 years. Connect with other parents who truly understand the joys and challenges of raising spirited kids. Share experiences, get practical advice, and find encouragement in a community that celebrates the unique qualities of spirited children. Whether you’re seeking guidance or just need to vent, this group is here to support you every step of the way. Join now and be part of a tribe that gets it!
The Livewire Club (A new membership community)
Joining the Livewire Club Membership is your gateway to an exclusive community of educators, therapists, and parents, all passionate about helping children develop essential fine motor skills. This membership provides access to a growing library of hands-on resources, creative activities, and expert guidance designed to make learning engaging and effective. Whether you're looking to enhance your professional practice or support your child's development, the Livewire Club offers the tools, inspiration, and support you need to succeed. Don’t miss the chance to be part of a collaborative and innovative network that empowers you to spark a love for learning—sign up today!
To learn more about McCall:
At Little Livewires, McCall is all about research-backed solutions to support child development. Her comprehensive Resources Hub is filled with evidence-based articles, guides, and tools designed to empower educators, therapists, and parents alike. McCall’s commitment to staying at the forefront of developmental research ensures that every resource provided is rooted in science and tailored to real-world application. Whether you’re exploring fine motor skills, sensory play, or behavioral strategies, you can trust McCall to deliver the knowledge and insights you need to make a meaningful impact. Dive in today and discover the power of informed support!
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If you’ve been exploring Macall Gordon’s fantastic book but feel that a more personalized approach might suit your family’s needs better, I’d love to help. Sleep challenges can feel overwhelming, especially with a little livewire, but you don’t have to tackle them alone.
As a Certified Gentle Sleep Coach®, I specialize in creating customized, step-by-step plans tailored to your child’s unique temperament and your family’s dynamics. Together, we’ll navigate the challenges, implement effective strategies, and bring calm to your nights.
If one-on-one support is what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’m here to guide you every step of the way toward blissful sleep for you and your little livewire.
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.
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