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Alternative to Cry It Out
Are you looking for alternatives to cry it out sleep coaching methods that result in a happy sleeping baby and NO GUILT and NO SHAME? Then you'll want to learn more about my unique approach to Gentle Sleep Coaching!
After having their first child during COVID, with almost no support, my clients, Peter and Embry, wanted all the support possible for their 2nd child, and that included a Sleep Coach! This family successfully sleep coached their first child at 7 months, but they wanted to sleep train their 2nd child as soon as he was showing signs of readiness. Finding an alternative to the cry it out method was very important to this couple since cry it out was not in line with their family values.
Alternative to cry it out
Gentle Sleep Coaching is an alternative to cry it out sleep training. It uses sleep science, behavioral science, and attachment theory to work with your child's temperament and teach them the skills of sleep. To hear me explain more about Gentle Sleep Coaching watch this video.
Peter and Embry describe their experience "Some people just let their children cry it out and that wasn't the way that we wanted to do it. During Gentle Sleep Coaching, we are literally totally available to our child and dad was in the room for the first several days to keep the baby comfortable."
To hear more about this Family's Sleep Transformation watch their success story below!
Click here to watch their Sleep Success Story!
Peter and Embry want people to know "Sleep coaching is like clockwork. As soon as you nail those wake windows and those appropriate times, it all just like flows like water. It's really amazing. You can just start to experience and learn about your child and tailor everything towards them."
Are you struggling with your child's sleep? Could you use some support tailored specifically to YOUR child and YOUR family?
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.
Get in the know about Lipedema! Triggered by Pregnancy!!!
June is Lipedema awareness month and I wanted to take a moment and shine a light on the common and under-recognized disease! Lipedema affects as many as 1 in 11 women and presents and gets worse at times of hormonal shifts- puberty, PREGNANCY, peri-menopause and menopause!
Because this is triggered in pregnancy, I really want you to share this with your friends because sometimes women don't get diagnosed until menopause and it's too late so I want moms to get help now!
If you find yourself researching the following terms, you have to check out this challenge!
lipedema treatment
lipedema legs
lipedema or just fat legs
lipedema symptoms
lipedema diet
lipedema surgery
do i have lipedema
new treatment for lipedema
The Lipedema Project & Lipedma Simplified are hosting a Lipedema Awareness Challenge with trainings and tips on understanding your diagnosis and how to improve your quality of life with lipedema & lymphedema.
Check out this incredible calendar of events!
Register for the Challenge
To Learn More about Lipedema:
All Things Childcare
As a parent, we typically think of childcare as no longer an issue when the kids hit Kindergarten, but choosing childcare is a dilemma that extends ALL the way through raising your kids. IT DOES NOT STOP! From infant childcare, preschool, before/after care, summer camps, rides for older children, it just comes in a different form of "childcare".
Imagine being able to learn about all your childcare options in one guide, so that you can make a decision that allows your family to thrive. I had the pleasure of interviewing childcare specialist Shannon Parola who did just that!
Shannon's guide gives families an unbelievable 45 page guide on everything you could ever possibly wanna know about choosing childcare.
Nanny vs. Au pair
Daycare vs. Nanny
What red flags to look out for
How to background check care providers
How to hire a babysitter
Nanny vs. babysitter
Check out this interview with Shannon below:
Click here to watch this informative interview about choosing childcare
More About Shannon Parola
Shannon Parola is an accomplished childcare professional with over 15 years of experience in the field. Her expertise includes roles such as Nanny, Newborn Care Specialist, and Pediatric Sleep Consultant. Throughout her career, Shannon has worked with families of children with special needs and allergies, providing individualized support to each family while managing top executive households. Her extensive experience and knowledge make her a trusted resource for families in need of childcare support.
As both a childcare coach and a mother, Shannon is dedicated to helping families navigate the challenges of childcare and parenting. She strives to provide the best possible care for children while supporting parents in achieving success. Her compassionate nature and exceptional communication skills make her a valuable asset to any family.
In October 2022, Shannon co-authored the Choosing Childcare 101 guide in collaboration with Nanny Village. This comprehensive guidebook offers parents a complete resource, providing them with all available childcare options within the United States and tips on how to access them. Choosing the right childcare option can be a daunting task for many parents, but with the help of Shannon and Nanny Village’s guide, they can make informed decisions and rest assured that their children are in the best possible care.
Shannon’s passion for childcare and dedication to supporting families has made her a respected authority in the industry. She continues to work with families and organizations, providing them with the best possible care and guidance. Her commitment to excellence and her love for children make her a valuable resource for any family seeking childcare support.
To learn more about Shannon:
Website/Blog - www.theviparolaz.com
Choosing Childcare 101- https://www.theviparolaz.com/choosingchildcare101 -
Instagram - www.instagram.com/theviparolaz
Facebook - www.facebook.com/theviparolaz
If you find yourself google searching any of the following terms, you need to check out Shannon's guide!
daycare near me
child care assistance
how to find in home child care
how to find a daycare for newborn
finding a childcare provider
finding quality childcare
daycare tour checklist
daycare red flags
how to find a part time nanny
Are you struggling with your child's sleep? Are you looking for an alternative to cry it out?
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.
Pregnancy can trigger Lipedema--Find out about this undiagnosed disease!
I wanted to take a moment and shine a light on the common and under-recognized disease affecting as many as 1 in 11 women. It’s called Lipedema.
Lipedema presents and gets worse at times of hormonal shifts- puberty, PREGNANCY, peri-menopause and menopause!
My good friend, Lisa Duerre suffered undiagnosed with this disease for a lifetime. She spent decades of dieting, exercising, and self-blaming when her legs and arms didn’t look like everyone else’s. When she hit menopause, her legs were so swollen, she was having a hard time walking a flight of stairs. Lisa's step-mother could see her declining mobility was causing her pain and shame and started researching what could be the cause of Lisa’s symptoms. She shared literature on Lipedema and Lisa immediately saw pictures of legs and arms that looked like hers and began to understand that her weight struggles were actually rooted in disease!!!
Once Lisa identified all the similarities between her weight and swelling struggles and started to understand more about Lipedema, she found the right contacts who were knowledgeable in this disease and eventually properly diagnosed her. Now, it is Lisa's mission to shine a light on Lipedema so no other women has to suffer in shame and self-blame or lose their mobility over time.
It is important to note that lipedema can be easily misdiagnosed as obesity, so it is recommended to see a healthcare professional if you suspect you may have this condition. Here are some helpful things to know about it.
What is Lipedema?
Lipedema is a chronic medical condition that primarily affects women and is characterized by a disproportionate accumulation of fat in the legs, thighs, buttocks and in some cases upper arms often leading to enlarged lower body.
This shows up at a time of hormonal shifts- puberty, PREGNANCY, peri-menopause and menopause.
What to look for?
Pain and/or hypersensitivity
Bilateral uncontrollable swelling of the legs and/or arms that worsens with prolonged standing or sitting
Fat deposits that are resistant to weight loss efforts, including diet and exercise.
"Column-like" appearance to the legs, with a distinct boundary between the affected area and the ankles.
Mattress like dimpling in skin tissue, especially the thighs
Easy bruising, especially in the affected areas.
Reduced flexibility and mobility due to the size and shape of the affected areas.
Check out my conversation with Lisa to hear more about her experience or listen Lisa's podcast episode to hear more details and medical insights from two world renowned experts.
Watch my interview with Lisa Duerre talk about her struggle and insights into learning to live with Lipedema
Innovation Happens When Leaders Don't Have All the Answers| Special Edition: Lipedema Awareness
Although there is no known cure for lipedema, there are various treatments available that can help manage its symptoms. Here are some of the most common treatments for lipedema:
Compression Therapy: This involves wearing compression garments, such as stockings or leggings, that provide pressure to the affected area to improve circulation and reduce swelling
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): This is a specialized form of massage that uses gentle pressure and rhythmic movements to stimulate the lymphatic system and promote drainage of excess fluid from the affected area.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): This involves the use of low-intensity lasers to stimulate the lymphatic system and improve circulation, which can help reduce swelling and pain.
Surgery: In severe cases of lipedema, surgery may be necessary to remove the excess fat from the affected area. There are several types of liposuction that can be used to treat lipedema, including tumescent liposuction and water-assisted liposuction.
Exercise and Diet: While exercise and diet alone cannot cure lipedema, they can help manage its symptoms by improving overall health and reducing inflammation. Low-impact exercises like swimming and walking, and a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can be helpful.
It's important to note that treatment for lipedema is highly individualized and may involve a combination of different approaches. Consultation with a healthcare professional experienced in treating lipedema can help determine the most appropriate course of treatment for each individual.
To learn more about Lipedema check out:
Lipedema Simplified Website: https://lipedema-simplified.org
The Lipedma Project : https://www.facebook.com/LipedemaProject
The Disease They Call Fat Documentary https://youtu.be/qeqZ0oBDpNk
To learn more about Lisa Duerre:
Why should Mother's Day be only ONE DAY?
Why should Mother's Day be only ONE DAY ?
Keep the gifts coming, right?
You deserve more than one day, so I'm gifting you my # 1 International Best Selling Books:
Free Digital Download available until Thursday, May 18th
Click here to go to Amazon and download my book for FREE!
The One Thing Every Mom Needs to Know Volume 1
Click here to go to Amazon and download my book for FREE!
The One Thing Every Mom Needs to Know Volume 2
Click here to go to Amazon and download my book for FREE!
The One Thing Every MOMPRENEUR Needs to Know!
If you are celebrating mother's day, I hope you have a great Mother's Day WEEK!
Celebrate YOUR way!
What's your favorite way to celebrate Mother's Day? We all give and receive love differently, AND THAT IS OK! No Guilt, No shame necessary!
A day with the family
Breakfast in bed
Homemade gift from the littles
A nice thoughtful gift
Someone cleaning your house
Dinner with your kids
A day to yourself
A fancy trip
A splurge purchase you have had your eye on
All of the above
Watch this video to hear what my FAVORITE Mother's Day includes!
Have you heard of the 5 love languages?
Gary Chapman explains how people express and receive love in different ways.
Words of Affirmation: This love language involves using words to express love and appreciation to someone. It could be words of encouragement, compliments, or expressing gratitude.
Acts of Service: This love language involves doing things to show love and care, such as cooking a meal, cleaning the house, or running errands for your partner.
Receiving Gifts: This love language involves giving and receiving gifts as a way to express love and affection. It is not about the value of the gift, but the thought behind it.
Quality Time: This love language involves spending time with your partner, giving them your undivided attention and engaging in activities that you both enjoy.
Physical Touch: This love language involves expressing love and affection through physical touch, such as holding hands, hugging, kissing, or any other physical contact that makes you feel loved and cared for.
To take the love language test, click here https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/love-language
My advise is to learn your love language, know what fills you up! If you have things you prefer it's OK to talk about it and plan for it. If you are like me and prefer to skip the lavish gifts for a day of freedom let your family know! Setup that babysitter! Consider a screen-free holiday to do something you love, something that fills you up!
Are you struggling with your child's sleep? Are you interested in an alternatives to cry it out method?
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.
Feeling Depressed, Anxious or Overwhelmed? Resources to Get Help!
Did you know?!?!?
Up to 1 in 5 women will suffer from a maternal mental health disorder like postpartum depression
AND........
Less than 15% of women will receive treatment!
Many of us have heard women experiencing "Baby Blues" after the birth of their baby, but it's important for everyone to be familiar with the warning signs of maternal mental health disorders. Whether you are a mom, husband, partner, family, friend or neighbor, you can be CRITICAL in supporting mothers to find help with maternal mental health disorders.
Baby Blues resolves without treatment and typically lasts 2-3 weeks afterbirth, but other disorders do not resolve on their own.
Please Pay Attention. If symptoms persist, this is when a mom needs understanding and outside support via a therapist, their OB-GYN and empathy from household members, family and friends.
To learn more about postpartum mood disorders click here to watch a video where I explain some of the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please reach out for help!
If you know someone with a young child check in on them and see how they are doing.
Postpartum psychosis is a reversible, but severe mental health condition. It involves a loss of contact with reality. This is why it's very important for family and friends to take notice of the symptoms and signs of postpartum psychosis. People experiencing psychosis are often unable to complete a screening questionnaire on their own.
Below are some great resources for help with postpartum mood disorders. It is so important to get help. Please know, you do not have to feel this way forever.
Dr Sosh | online postpartum resources and offers phone consultations | https://drshosh.com/
Online Talk Therapy | Virtual Services | Forbes Article that outlines all the best online virtual therapy companies.
Blue Dot | Maternal Health Resources and Overview of Mood Disorders | https://www.thebluedotproject.org/whataremmhdisorders
Postpartum Support international | Helpline | 1-800-944-4773
Help for moms | Hotline | 1-833-9HELP4MOMS
Postpartum National Support Hotline | Support Hotline | https://www.2020mom.org/get-help
Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts: Karen Kleiman | Great Postpartum Health Book | https://www.amazon.com/Good-Moms-Have-Scary-Thoughts/dp/1641701307/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Good+Moms+Have+Scary+Thoughts&qid=1559688412&s=gateway&sr=8-1
One Tough Job | Parenting Resources | https://onetoughjob.org/need-help-now#
Doulas | Call your local doula for support | https://www.dona.org/what-is-a-doula/find-a-doula/
Sleep Consultants | Many sleep consultants offer virtual support so you can get your child (and yourself sleeping). | https://sleeplady.com/coaches/
Primary Care Doctors or OBGYNs | Call your doctors and let them know you are struggling. | your local doctor
Sleep deprivation can exacerbate symptoms of postpartum depression and postpartum depression can cause sleep deprivation. I want all moms to have the confidence that baby can sleep well so they can be the parent they want to be. Guilt-Free confidence.
Click here to watch my client Kate's story of how sleep coaching helped solve her postpartum depression.
"I was amazed how with quickly with sleep coaching I was able to bounce back and come back out of the fog of postpartum depression."
Click here to watch my client Kate's story of how sleep coaching helped solve her postpartum depression.
References
CDC Depression among Women, https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/depression/index.html. Accessed April 25, 2019.
Byatt N, et al. Enhancing participation in depression care in outpatient perinatal care settings: a systematic review. Obstet Gynecol. 2015;126(5):1048-1058.
Are you struggling with your child's sleep? Are you looking for an alternative to cry it out? 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!
L.A. STYLE Magazine Shout Out!
L.A. STYLE Magazine featured the important work & mission of WO3 Connect
L.A. STYLE Magazine, a leading luxury lifestyle publication, was founded in 1985 and attracts readers across the globe and features content in business, fashion, culture, travel and inspiration.
In two recent articles, LA STYLE Magazine highlighted all the incredible work of the 50 female entrepreneurs and the WO3 Executive Committee members. LA STYLE Magazine recognized the value in partnering, promoting and supporting small, women-owned businesses. This is a HUGE WIN for our Grassroots effort and I am just so proud!!
If you or someone you know is a small, women-owned business and you want to be featured in a W03 spotlight, please fill out this form so we can support your big dreams.
Here is the article about The WO3 2023 Women’s Spotlight Nominees that were featured:
ARTICLE: To Check out the Top 50 Female Entrepreneurs Presented By WO3 go to this link.
https://lastylemagazine.com/featured/top50femaleentrepreneurs-presentedbywo3/
Our Executive Committee was also honored in L.A. STYLE Magazine.
ARTICLE: The New WO3 Executive Committee for 2023
https://lastylemagazine.com/featured/newwo3executivecommittee/
If you didn't have a chance to check out my WO3 Interviews with women-owned businesses throughout the month of March, you can check the interviews here:
Marquis Anne Skold, Founder and CEO of Nanny Village https://youtu.be/Pm0zVU0rihw
Ann McKitrick, Parenting Coach, Founder of Nurtured Noggins, Podcast Host of Parenting in the First 3 Years https://youtu.be/5UIgx4phJIM
Lisa Duerre of RLD Group, Speaker & Podcast host of Ctrl+Alt+Delete with Lisa Duerre™ https://youtu.be/6JuC9MAiooM
Grace Kraaijvanger Founder of The Hivery https://youtu.be/Doh789vQG1E
Dr. Jackalyn Rainosek, PhD, CEO and Co-Founder of DTP Leadership Group https://youtu.be/XpSQZDk8qlo
Dr Abby Sirovica Founder o of the Grassroots Collective & Chiropractic Pediatric Specialist https://youtu.be/q6GNGiKvUoA
Brooke Shapiro, Founder of Sprinkles Parents & a Marketing Consulting Agency https://youtu.be/NMABtkmBUz0
Dr. Patricia Kiser, CEO and Director of Care at University Chiropractic https://youtu.be/-p8BHm9_seE
Look at my now! Featured Baby Sleep Coach!
I am honored to be the featured Sleep Coach on Kim West's The Sleep Lady website!
Did you know I was one of the first 50 trained and certified Gentle Sleep Coaches? It all began over 13 years ago when I too was an exhausted parent who couldn't get my daughter to sleep. If you are looking for alternatives to cry it out, Gentle Sleep Coaching is the answer!
Check out the video below to hear my story!