Enter any keyword(s) to search our Blogs.
Big News! I’m Featured on the High Vibes and a Mic Podcast! 🎙️
I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you! On November 11, 2024, I had the privilege of being a guest on the High Vibes and a Mic podcast, where I joined the incredible Veronique, the creator and host of this inspiring podcast, to dive deep into a topic that is near and dear to my heart: ending sleep struggles and empowering families with healthy sleep routines.
Veronique is a passionate storyteller and advocate for moms everywhere, using her platform to bring thoughtful, uplifting conversations to parents juggling life, family, and personal growth. Her warmth and curiosity made this episode such a joy!
In Episode 128, we discuss:
The emotional toll of sleepless nights and why it’s not your fault.
How to approach sleep coaching in a gentle, compassionate way.
Key strategies to support your little one in learning to sleep soundly and independently.
And so much more!
Whether you’re currently navigating sleepless nights or just looking for inspiration and practical tips to support your baby’s sleep, this episode is packed with insights that can make a meaningful difference in your family’s daily life.
Here’s where you can listen:
🎧 Apple Podcasts
🎧 Spotify
🎧 High Vibes and a Mic Blog Episode
I had so much fun recording this episode and am so grateful to Veronique and the High Vibes and a Mic team for inviting me to talk all things SLEEP. Their audience is already loving it, and I’m so excited to share it with all of you too!
After you listen, I’d love to hear your thoughts—what resonated most with you? If you have questions or are ready to take the next step toward peaceful nights, reach out anytime.
Here’s to restful nights and thriving families! 💕
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.
Raising a Toast to Kim West, The Sleep Lady, This Thanksgiving
Today, I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude for Kim West, The Sleep Lady. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on the impact she's had on my life and countless others.
Kim West is not just a sleep expert; she's a lifeline for tired parents everywhere. Her book, Good Night Sleep Tight, became my saving grace when my own daughter was struggling with sleep at 10 months old. I devoured every page, soaked in her wisdom, and dialed into her bridgeline conference calls every "Talk Tuesday" seeking guidance until we found success.
But Kim didn't stop there. She had a vision beyond just writing a book when she was booked out and unable to keep up with the demand for her expertise. She created the Gentle Sleep Coaching Certification program, which allowed me to be a part of something bigger – a movement to help families find peace through sleep.
In 2004, I joined the first cohort of trained and certified gentle sleep coaches, inspired by Kim's dedication to changing lives. Through her program, I gained the tools and knowledge to support families in my community, as a Trained and Certified Gentle Sleep Coach, just like she had supported my family..
Talking with my Mentor, Kim West, aka: The Sleep Lady
I had the honor of sitting down with Kim for an interview, where we delved into her journey from being a mom navigating her own children's sleep to becoming The Sleep Lady. She pioneered the gentle sleep coaching method, long before Zoom made virtual consultations the norm.
Kim's commitment to helping families is unparalleled. She started with handwritten booklets and phone calls, and now her impact is felt worldwide through Zoom conferences and online resources. Her evolution is nothing short of remarkable.
So, as we celebrate Thanksgiving, let's raise a toast to Kim West, The Sleep Lady, for her tireless dedication to transforming lives one sleep-deprived family at a time. Cheers to you, Kim, and thank you for everything you do!
Watch this incredible interview to hear how Kim started, pivoted and expanded
To learn more about Kim West:
Women Owned Business Shout Outs
Kim gave shoutouts in this interview to a few women owned businesses that she admires in honor of WO3, a grassroots movement to partner, promote and support women owned businesses.
Melanie Perkins CEO of CANVA
Shout out to Melanie Perkins, the brilliant mind behind Canva! As the co-founder and CEO, Melanie has revolutionized the design industry by making professional-quality design accessible to everyone, regardless of skill level. Her innovative vision and relentless determination have transformed Canva into a global powerhouse, empowering millions of users to create stunning visuals with ease. Melanie's inspiring journey from a startup in Australia to leading one of the world's most valuable tech companies is a testament to her exceptional leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. Here's to Melanie Perkins for making the world a more beautifully designed place!
Vivian Glyck of Just Like My Child
Shout out to Vivian Glyck, the inspiring founder of Just Like My Child Foundation and Girl Power Project! Vivian's unwavering dedication to empowering women and children in underserved communities has transformed countless lives. Through her visionary leadership, the foundation provides essential education, healthcare, and mentorship programs, fostering self-sufficiency and hope. Vivian's passion for creating lasting change and her tireless advocacy for the rights and well-being of the vulnerable are truly commendable. Her work not only uplifts individuals but also strengthens entire communities. Here's to Vivian Glyck for her remarkable contributions and for being a beacon of compassion and positive impact!
Just Like My Child- Girl Power Project
JLMC has developed a replicable curriculum—and system of delivery—to empower girls with the tools they need to stay in school and avoid child marriage, disease, early pregnancy, and violence. Our girls—aged 12-15 years—receive 60+ hours of Workshops, Camp, and Club Sessions taught by local mentors over the course of two years in central Uganda.
To learn more about Vivian:
https://www.justlikemychild.org/meet-our-founder/
https://www.justlikemychild.org/girl-power-project/
Ingrid Macher
Shout out to Ingrid Macher, a powerhouse in the health and wellness community! As a renowned fitness expert and motivational coach, Ingrid has inspired millions to lead healthier, happier lives. Her dynamic approach to fitness, coupled with her empowering message of self-love and perseverance, has transformed the lives of many who struggle with weight loss and body image. Ingrid's commitment to spreading positivity and her personal journey of overcoming obstacles resonate deeply with her followers. Here's to Ingrid Macher for her dedication, resilience, and unwavering passion for helping others achieve their best selves!
#wo3connect #wo3day #isupporther #instagramlive #womensupportingwomen #womenempowerment #womeninbusiness
Is Low Ferritin the Missing Piece of Your Child’s Sleep Puzzle?
Is Low Ferritin the Missing Piece of Your Child’s Sleep Puzzle?
How Addressing Low Iron Levels Could Be Key to Improving Sleep
As a Gentle Sleep Coach, I’ve worked with countless families who are exhausted, hopeless, and feeling like they’ve tried everything to help their little ones sleep. We often look at bedtime routines, environmental factors, and behavioral patterns, but sometimes the issue runs deeper. One overlooked yet crucial aspect of sleep challenges in children is ferritin—a protein that stores iron in the body. Low ferritin levels can significantly impact sleep, and this could be the missing piece of the puzzle for your child.
What is Ferritin?
Ferritin acts as the body’s iron reserve, ensuring there’s enough iron available when dietary intake falls short. Your child might have normal iron levels, but if ferritin is low, their body could struggle to access the iron it needs. This isn't just an issue for physical health—adequate ferritin levels are essential for the brain’s ability to regulate sleep effectively.
Ferritin and Sleep
Low ferritin levels can impact sleep by altering the brain's sleep architecture and causing symptoms similar to Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). For younger children, this can present as discomfort at bedtime and difficulty settling down. I’ve seen toddlers who toss and turn, can’t stay still, and seem fussy for no apparent reason. What looks like bedtime resistance could actually be a child’s attempt to relieve discomfort caused by low ferritin.
Research shows that Restless Leg syndrome (RLS) can appear in infants, and while it's traditionally not diagnosed until the child can verbalize their discomfort, the onset of symptoms can occur much earlier (Tilma et al., 2013; Picchietti & Stevens, 2008). Children with low ferritin may wake up after only a few hours of sleep, crying, kicking, or with restlessness that makes falling back asleep impossible. This is not just frustrating for parents—it’s exhausting for the entire family.
Common Symptoms of Low Ferritin in Children
Low ferritin can be difficult to identify, especially in infants and toddlers who can’t articulate their discomfort. Here are some key signs that low ferritin might be affecting your child’s sleep:
Difficulty falling asleep: Constantly moving around in bed, seeming unable to get comfortable.
Frequent night wakings: Awake for hours during the night despite trying various soothing methods.
Extreme clinginess during sleep: Babies unable to sleep without being held or constantly nursed.
Unexplainable discomfort: Older children might describe their legs as "jumpy" or "prickly," while younger ones appear fussy without relief.
Testing for Ferritin Levels
Testing ferritin levels requires a blood draw, which can feel daunting for parents, but the process is simple and provides valuable insights. Pediatricians may often check hemoglobin levels, but it’s essential to understand that ferritin can be low even if hemoglobin appears normal. Sleep specialists generally recommend ferritin levels to be above 50 ng/mL for optimal sleep, even though the standard medical range considers lower levels as "normal."
Risk factors for low ferritin in children include:
Maternal prenatal low iron levels
Early cord clamping
Exclusive breastfeeding without iron supplementation
Family history of RLS (Tilma et al., 2013).
Child has a history of reflux, food intolerance, ADHD, or autism, they may also be at a higher risk (Kanofal et al., 2007).
Treatment and What to Expect
If your child's ferritin levels are confirmed to be low, the typical treatment involves iron supplementation under medical supervision. It's important not to attempt supplementation without guidance, as incorrect dosing can be dangerous. Most families see improvements in sleep within a few weeks of starting treatment, though it may take several months for ferritin levels to fully normalize. Additionally, gentle leg massages, warm compresses, or stretching exercises can provide temporary relief for discomfort at bedtime.
How Sleep Coaching Can Support Your Family During Ferritin Treatment
If you suspect ferritin may be affecting your child's sleep, I recommend speaking with your pediatrician about testing. Once ferritin levels are on track, we can work together to fine-tune your child's sleep routine, ensuring everyone in your home gets the rest they need.
At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I believe in a child-led, compassionate approach that respects your family’s individual needs. If your child’s sleep issues seem more complicated than typical bedtime resistance, it might be time for a different perspective. Schedule a 60-minute Sleep Strategy Session today, and let’s explore how we can transform your family’s sleep.
A Helpful Tool for Your Pediatrician Visit
My Gentle Sleep Coaching colleague and researcher, Macall Gordon has studied and researched Ferritin levels and sleep. She has prepared this checklist and the accompanying PDF that you can bring to your pediatrician. Maccall is also releasing a new book on 11/19 Why Won’t You Sleep: A game changing approach for exhausted parents of non, stop, super alert big feeling kids.
This letter includes detailed information about ferritin, the connection to sleep disturbances, and a checklist of symptoms that your child may be struggling with. You can download the letter, check the symptoms that apply to your child, and bring it to your pediatrician appointment. This will help ensure a thorough evaluation and make the conversation about testing for ferritin levels smoother and more effective.
For more information on ferritin and other sleep disruptors, check out these resources:
5 Hidden Health Challenges That Disrupt Your Child’s Sleep: How a Sleep Coach Can Help
The Hidden Impact of Low Ferritin Levels in Children: What Every Parent Should Know
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.
References
Gordon M.A, MacCall. Sleep and low ferritin in young children: FACT SHEET Copyright 2024 • Macall Gordon, M.A • mgordon@antioch.edu.
The Importance of Room Darkening for Baby Sleep: Introducing Sleepout's Blackout Curtains
Whether it's natural sunlight streaming in during daytime naps or streetlights filtering through at night, light can disrupt sleep patterns. I always recommend my clients make their child’s room dark for nights and naps to help signal to them it’s time for sleep.
Myth:
Teaching a child to sleep in darkness will make them dependent on it, preventing them from napping or sleeping in other lighting conditions.
MYTH DEBUNKED:
Healthy Association: A dark environment helps children associate darkness with sleep, promoting the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, which is crucial for restful sleep.
Adaptability: By establishing a consistent sleep routine in a dark room, children can actually become more adaptable to different lighting conditions as they grow, rather than becoming dependent on darkness.
Flexible Sleep Habits: At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, we believe that healthy sleep habits, including the use of a dark environment, provide a foundation that helps children sleep well in various settings.
The Importance of Room Darkening for Baby Sleep
Babies are highly sensitive to light, and their developing circadian rhythms rely on environmental cues to regulate sleep-wake cycles. Exposure to light during sleep can interfere with these rhythms, leading to difficulties falling asleep, frequent night awakenings, and shorter sleep durations. Research shows that maintaining a dark sleep environment significantly improves sleep quality and duration for babies, helping them settle into a more restful sleep.
Room darkening is particularly crucial for daytime naps when natural light is abundant. Blackout curtains create a cocoon-like environment that promotes deeper, uninterrupted sleep for babies. Additionally, during the night, blackout curtains prevent external light sources from disturbing sleep, fostering a more peaceful and restorative rest.
Client’s always ask me for product recommendations and tips that actually work so I’m excited to share with you a great room darkening curtain by Sleepout!
Introducing Sleepout's Blackout Curtains
Mark and Hannah, the co-founders of Sleepout, understand firsthand the struggles of sleep deprivation. Mark's former insomnia journey led them to develop an innovative solution: blackout curtains designed to provide optimal room darkening for better sleep.
With a mission to create premium and affordable sleep products that stand the test of time, Sleepout remains committed to sharing their journey with their community every step of the way. Their blackout curtains not only provide the darkness needed for optimal baby sleep but also reflect the company’s dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Room darkening plays a crucial role in promoting better sleep for babies, and blackout curtains offer an effective solution to create an ideal sleep environment. By prioritizing a dark sleep environment, parents can help their babies achieve the best sleep possible, setting the foundation for healthy growth and lifelong sleep habits.
The Sweet Dream Stealers: How Sugar Affects Your Child's Sleep and Behavior
Sugar rush in kids
Myth or Reality?
It's a common belief among parents that sugar can cause hyperactivity in children. However, numerous studies have debunked the myth of the "sugar rush" and instead think people just get happy and energetic from sugar treats.
Sugar and Sleep Disruption
While sugar might not be the direct culprit of hyperactivity, it can certainly play a role in sleep disturbances. Consuming sugary foods and beverages close to bedtime can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, followed by a rapid drop, leading to disturbed sleep patterns.
According to a study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, diets high in sugar and carbohydrates can significantly reduce both sleep quality and duration.
Behavior and Mood Swings
Sugar's impact extends beyond just sleep. Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can lead to mood swings and irritability in children. A study in the Journal of Pediatrics observed that high sugar diets might enhance aggressive behavior and decrease attention spans. This behavioral change is often a result of the energy peaks and troughs caused by high sugar intake.
Power struggles and tantrums during the day caused by sugar spikes and dip can lead to more power struggles and tantrums at bedtime. These constant battles can leave caregivers exhausted and impatient.
If you are interested in some new options for good snacks for kids, here is a great article by Yummy Toddler Food. Bonus they also have a great list of snacks you can offer after dinner to avoid the “i’m hungry” delay tactic.
Understanding the effects of sugar can help you make better dietary choices for your child’s sleep and overall behavior. While it’s okay to enjoy treats in moderation, maintaining a balanced diet is key to a good night's sleep and stable mood for your little ones.
For more tips on improving your child’s sleep, keep following Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching. Here's to healthier habits and peaceful nights!
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!
Navigating the Fall 2024 Time Change with Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching
The Fall Time Change 2024 is this coming Sunday, November 3rd at 2 a.m.
With each seasonal time change, many parents reach out to me with concerns about how this shift will impact their child's sleep schedule. It's true—the "fall back" time change can disrupt sleep patterns. But don't worry! I'm here to guide you through this transition with minimal stress and confusion.
Watch My Expert Tips on Adjusting to the Fall 2024 Time Change
Key Facts About the Fall Time Change:
Date and Time: The "Fall Back" time change in the U.S. is on Sunday, November 3rd, 2024, at 2 a.m.
Clock Adjustment: Set your clocks back by one hour.
Easier Adjustment: This time change is often easier than the spring time change. You get a "bonus hour" of sleep and morning light, making waking up easier.
Early Evenings: It will be darker an hour earlier, which might make both you and your child feel drowsy earlier.
Potential for Early Rising: Be prepared for early rising between 4-6 a.m.
Adapting to the New Schedule
Seasonal time changes are all about aligning with biological rhythms driven by natural light and darkness. It can take up to two weeks for a child to fully adjust, so patience and mindfulness are essential.
Strategies for Children 6 Months to 6 Years
1. Proactive Approach
For early risers or children sensitive to schedule changes, start adjusting routines 3-7 days before the time change.
Incremental Changes: Shift bedtime, nap times, and meal times 10-15 minutes later every other day until the night of the time change.
Example: If your child’s normal bedtime is 7 p.m., gradually move it to 8 p.m. by the time the clocks change. When the time falls back, the new bedtime will be 7 p.m.
For example, let's pretend your child's normal bedtime is 7:00pm. Shift their bedtime 15 minutes LATER each day. Here is what the change would look like over a 4 day period. It is important to shifts naps and meals by the same 15 minute increments.
Wednesday 7:15pm
Thursday 7:30 pm
Friday 7:45 pm
Saturday 8:00pm
Sunday is FALL BACK DAY TO 7:00 pm (This will be the time after the time change)
2. Just In Time Strategy
For those who prefer a simpler approach, move all schedules to the new time on November 3rd.
Sync with New Clock Times: Adjust meal times, nap times, and bedtimes to the new time immediately.
Handling Early Rising: If your child wakes before 6 a.m., use the "dramatic wake-up" strategy to reinforce the morning wake-up routine.
The Dramatic Wake-Up Routine
Keep the room dark until 6 a.m.
Do not expose child to food or light before 6am. It is OK if you are in the room with them if you are not using sleep crutches.
If child is still awake at 6am then come into room, turn on the lights, open shades, and greet your child with "good morning."
Start the day with exposure to natural light and know that nap will come earlier due to earlier wake up.
Important Tips for Morning Light Exposure
Ensure your child gets 20-30 minutes of morning sunlight before 10am and do this daily during the first 7-10 days post-time change. This helps reset the circadian rhythm. A "happy light" that you can purchase, can also provide beneficial light therapy.
Protecting Parental Sleep
Adults can benefit from this time change too. Go to bed at your usual time on Saturday night and enjoy the extra hour of sleep on Sunday. Morning light exposure will help regulate your body to the new time.
Be Patient and Flexible
Adjusting to a new time change can be similar to dealing with jet lag. It takes about a week to resolve, so maintain a flexible schedule.
Need More Help?
If sleep struggles persist after the time change, don’t hesitate to reach out. There’s no need to endure life in a sleep-deprived haze!
Download My Free Sleep Regression Guide: Packed with helpful insights and actions.
Schedule a Sleep Tune-Up Call: In a 30-minute Zoom session, I’ll act as your personal "sleep detective" to help solve sleep struggles and restore peaceful nights and joyful days. ($150 for 30 minutes). If you need to talk live for a sleep-tune up please CONTACT ME and indicate in the form you need a sleep-tune up.
Remember, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Happy Fall!
Winning the Sniffle Wars: Sleep the Immunity Booster for Kids
It’s October. School is in session and so begins the season of illnesses.
Today, I want to delve into an often-overlooked benefit of quality sleep — its profound impact on your child's immune system. Sleep is not just a pillar of health; it's the foundation.
The Science of Sleep and Immunity
Sleep and the immune system share a bidirectional relationship, each influencing the other in significant ways. During sleep, the body enters a state of repair and regeneration, releasing cytokines, a type of protein that fights off infection and inflammation. This process is crucial for children, whose immune systems are still developing.
Studies have shown that children who consistently get adequate sleep have fewer colds, flu, and infections compared to their sleep-deprived counterparts.
Why Every Hour Counts
Missing even 30 minutes of this essential rest can disrupt your child's immune function, leaving them more susceptible to viruses and bacteria. It’s not just about fighting off the common cold; adequate sleep also contributes to a robust response to vaccinations, offering better protection against diseases.
Favorite Products
Here are a few of my favorite products to recommend ordering in preparation for cold and flu season. I always found it better to have certain staples on hand than to be frantically looking for them when home with a sick little one.
As we embrace the upcoming cold and flu season, ensuring our children get the restorative sleep they need to maintain a strong immune system is more important than ever. To support their health and well-being, I highly recommend having a few key products on hand. These tools, combined with the sleep practices we’ve discussed, will arm you with the best defense against the seasonal sniffles, ensuring your little ones stay healthy, happy, and well-rested.
Wishing you and your family a peaceful, illness-free season.
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!
Rock. Sway. Walk. Repeat.
Rock. Sway. Walk.
Rock. Sway. Walk.
Rock. Sway. Walk.
Repeat for hours. Every night. Throughout the night. Every nap.
Baby suffered with non stop ear infections which made sleep difficult and the bedtime routine to evolve into an endless process.
Fast forward 19 months. Mom was run down emotionally and experiencing back pain.
Mom was researching and learning about sleep coaches. Mom wanted an experienced Sleep Coach who worked with older children. Mom wanted someone who was empathetic to their feelings.
Dad was a busy businessman skeptical of sleep coaches.
How do you teach a baby to sleep when this child doesn't talk?
How does this setup work over zoom?
Dad noticed moms desperation for a solution and reluctantly agreed to try it with the reassurance of my Sleep Success Guarantee.
They are both here to TELL THEIR SUCCESS STORY about the magic of Gentle Sleep Coaching with expert support from a tenured coach.
After Guilt-free, gentle sleep coaching, their 19 month old daughter now sleeps 12-13 hour ALL NIGHT and takes gorgeous naps. No rocking or swaying! As a result, mom has had time to lose 20 lbs and gets 7-8 hrs a sleep a night. Every one is Happier & Healthier!
-Lindsey & Mike Y. Child was 19 months at time of guilt-free gentle sleep coaching
Click image or here to watch video.
Lindsey wants people to know….
"I went from being depressed at whit's end when we began. Joanna made this a pleasurable and enjoyable process. Face to face was very important (zoom) to us. It was amazing. It was well spent money. A great investment we made for our family. One of the best choices we have made. If we have other children, we will be using Joanna again."
Dad is now a believer!
"We didn't want to do cry it out, and we did not have to do that because Joanna's step-by-step hand-holding process works!. Our child is able to sleep and nap. Having your child sleep makes life easier in all areas."
It's never too late to teach your child the skills of sleep!
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!
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Be Proactive, Get Screened, and Support Each Other
As October unfolds, we are reminded of a critical cause that impacts countless lives: Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month, I want to take a moment to emphasize the importance of regular screening, staying informed, and supporting those affected by this pervasive disease.
According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. This staggering statistic underscores the necessity of vigilance and proactive health measures.
Listen and Learn: Recommended Podcasts
I highly recommend listening to the following insightful We Can Do Hard Things podcast episodes that discuss Amanda's breast cancer diagnoses and the journey that follows. This is one of my all time favorite podcasts and these particular episodes offer incredible insight into what the breast cancer journey can be like but also great ways you can support your friends and family who may be on this difficult path.
Based on Amanda’s suggestions and some additional research, I have prepared this kit for quick access to all the “must have” supplies and products to make recovery post surgery easier for yourself, a loved one or a friend.
The Importance of Regular and Preventative Screening
Regular mammograms and self-examinations are essential tools in detecting breast cancer early when treatment is most effective. Women aged 40 and above should have a mammogram every year, while those with a higher risk should consult their doctors about starting earlier screenings. Preventative measures can save lives, so don’t delay—schedule your screening today.
Educate Yourself and Be Your Own Advocate
Knowledge is POWER, especially when it comes to your health. Understanding what to expect from a diagnosis, the treatment options available, and the recovery process is crucial. Equip yourself with information, ask questions, and seek second and third opinions. Being your own advocate means taking control of your health journey and making informed decisions.
Supporting Friends and Family
Breast cancer doesn’t just affect those diagnosed; it touches families, friends, and communities. Offering support can make a significant impact. Whether it’s providing a listening ear, helping with daily tasks, or simply being there, your support can be a beacon of hope and strength. This month, let’s pledge to stand by those who are battling breast cancer and their loved ones.
Early Detection Cancer Testing
Galleri.com is a multi-cancer early detection test, to your cancer screenings which goes beyond what's currently possible. Now you can screen for a signal shared by more than 50 types of cancer with Galleri.1I do not have any affiliation with this screening organization, but I personally did take this test since cancer runs in my family. I want to stay well-informed about the status of my overall health.
Some health plans offer this or Galleri have excellent ways to afford this test possible.
Payment plan
A flexible payment plan may assist you with 0% interest for up to 12 months. Learn how to enroll by calling GRAIL Customer Service at (833) 694-2553
FSA/HSA
You may be able to use pre-tax dollars in your flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) to pay for the Galleri test. Check with your FSA or HSA administrator or insurance provider to determine eligibility.
Stay Vigilant and Spread Awareness
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a call to action for all of us. Stay vigilant with your health, support those around you, and spread awareness about the importance of early detection and regular screenings.
Let's use this month as a reminder to care for ourselves and each other. Schedule your screenings, educate yourself, and offer unwavering support to those who need it. Remember, we can do hard things—together.