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🌟 Start 2025 with Blissful Sleep – Free Gift Inside!
Happy New Year! 🎊 As we step into 2025, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your interest in creating a peaceful, well-rested home and trusting Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching to be the reliable place to come for helpful and accurate resource on all things sleep.
To celebrate this fresh start & show my appreciation, I have a special gift for you: a copy of "The One Thing Every Mom Needs to Know" – a #1 International Best Seller.
When I collaborated with 25 leading experts in sleep, nutrition, mindset, and more to create this book, my mission was clear: to empower 100,000 moms with accurate, reliable, and transformative insights. I truly believe this book has the power to change lives, and I’m thrilled to share it with you!
📖 Your copy is available now!
Download available FREE on January 1, 2025 only.
Need Support for Blissful Sleep?
The first step is scheduling a 60-minute Zoom Sleep Strategy Session to determine how I can guide your family toward beautiful, blissful sleep.
Alternative Methods to Cry It Out
If you’re hesitant about sleep coaching, know this:
🌟 I do NOT advocate "cry-it-out." My approach is guilt-free, gentle, and rooted in respect for you and your child.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Happy New Years and may you have Blissful Sleep in 2025 and beyond,
Awakening to Blissful Sleep: How Referrals are Rescuing Tired Parents
Today, I want to talk about a lifeline that many of my clients stumble upon when they're at their wits' end: referrals from others parents..
Picture this: you're in the thick of sleep deprivation, stumbling through the days with dark circles under your eyes and a constant fog in your brain.
Every night feels like a battle, and you're starting to wonder if you'll ever get a full night's rest again.
Sound familiar? You're not alone.
Many of my clients come to me feeling like they've tried everything and are convinced they are doomed with a “bad sleeper”.
But then, like a beacon of hope, a friend or family member swoops in and suggests something they never even considered: hiring a sleep coach.
It's like a lightbulb moment - suddenly, there's a path forward, a way out of the exhaustion spiral they've been trapped in.
What's fascinating is that so many new parents don't even realize that sleep coaching is an option.
They assume that sleep struggles are just a rite of passage, something they have to endure until their little one magically starts sleeping through the night.
But the truth is, there's help out there, and it can make all the difference.
Take Meredith and Danny, for example. They were at their wit's end, surviving on a few hours of broken sleep each night and feeling like zombies during the day. Nothing seemed to work and things just kept getting harder.
It wasn't until Meredith’s mom chatted with a family friend who recommended Joanna who successfully trained her grandchildren.
After just a few weeks of working with me, Meredith and Danny have experienced a Total Family Sleep Transformation and achieved ALL of their sleep goals.
Their son is now asleep by 5:30/6pm, sleeping through the night and taking 2 beautiful naps. The whole family is sleeping and they have TIME for themselves, their careers and each other.
I'm thrilled to share Meredith's success story with you today!
Meredith wants to encourage families:
“Don’t wait to call Joanna any longer. My regret was that I waited so long to ask for help because this could have been addressed months earlier. Joanna never judged us, always made us feel super comfortable and really helped us quickly. It wasn't this drawn out process. Call Joanna now, She can help you fix this.”
Here's a thought to ponder: in your circle of friends and family, who might be silently struggling with sleep deprivation just like you once were?
It's easy to get caught up in our own sleep struggles and forget that others might be facing similar challenges.
You never know whose life you could change by simply sharing your own success story and recommending Gentle sleep coaching as a resource and alternative to cry-it-out methods.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of well-rested families and happier households.
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!
Finding Fairy Godmother Magic: A Sleep Coaching Success Story
As a sleep coach, I often meet families who come to me as a last resort, feeling as if they need some sort of fairy godmother magic to solve their child's sleep issues. Meet Daphne and Jonas, who found themselves in this very situation. Desperate for a solution after months of sleepless nights and failed DIY sleep coaching, they turned to Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, hoping for a miracle.
Before working with me, Daphne and Jonas’s family life was chaotic. They had been struggling for 8 long months, trying every trick in the book to get their son to sleep. Despite their efforts, he was waking up every hour, leaving them exhausted and frustrated. Naps were a battleground, and disagreements over sleep training methods only added to the stress.
Feeling like they had exhausted all options, Daphne and Jonas approached sleep coaching with a mixture of skepticism and desperation. They feared they might never experience restful nights again. But from the moment they started working with me, they began to see positive changes.
In just a few days, they noticed fewer wake-ups and longer stretches of sleep. With guidance, support and a guilt-free and gentle sleep training method, they felt empowered to implement a consistent sleep routine and tackle their son's sleep crutches. Soon enough, their dreams started coming true.
“I couldn't believe that sleep training could be that effective. Everything we dreamt of, we have now.
We wanted him to sleep through the night. He's sleeping 11+ hrs at nightt.
We wanted him to be able to fall asleep by himself. Bedtime is so easy now.
We wanted him to stop waking up at 4am. He sleeps past 6am now.
We wanted to bottle wean at night (and thought it was impossible because he was drinking 3 large bottles and screaming that he's hungry.) He doesn't need bottles anymore and is eating better during the day.
We did not want to spend our whole day in the dark room trying to get him to nap. Now he takes a two hour nap during the day happily in his crib.
Daphne wants exhausted families to know “I would not wait to ask for expert sleep support. Our only regret is that we waited too long fooling around with DIY techniques. Our life was unnecessarily harder than it should have been. Sleep coaching has been magical and surprisingly effective.”
In the end, sleep coaching proved to be the fairy godmother magic the family had been searching for. With dedication, guidance, and a little bit of patience, they've transformed their nights from chaos to bliss. And for that, they'll be forever grateful.
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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Hello, I'm Joanna with Blissful Baby. Sleep Coaching, and I'm here with Jonas and Daphne, who have a baby boy that was 13 months old at time of sleep training and we are doing a celebration call. So I'm so happy that you were here. Hello? Yeah. Woo. Woo. Woo. Exactly. So I love sharing your story. So why don't we start at the beginning.
What was life like before you called me? Just gimme like the down and dirty. Like what time was he going to bed? What time was he waking up? How many times was he waking, you know, how did you feel about it? What, what was happening? Oh yeah. Okay. I, I love to tell that story. 'cause Yeah,
it was horrible. Our life is a, a total mess. We've been trying for, for, I mean, eight months ourself. Everything. He is waking up the worst time every hour. And we give him all the crutches possible and still not able to have him sleep for longer. He needs a bottle all the time. So we, we were doing this like show of me collaborating over the night,
throughout the night. I give some, I breastfeed a little bit while he warms up the milk and he come back with the milk and then he drink for two sips, falling back to sleep and then start again in one hour. Yep. And nap is also hard and he's cranky during the day. We try to sleep, train ourself has some success,
but then, then was not successful again. And we fight about how to interpret the different sleep coaching, the, the sleep training method and just not aligned overall. So yeah, it was very chaotic. Yeah. Yeah. So yeah, the, the, the challenge with like, you know, so what I hear you saying is like, okay,
we did tons of do it self sleep training. We were trying to take this methodology, then we'd try it and would be an epic fail. And then we tried this methodology and be an epic fail. And then we were arguing over the methodologies or how to employ the methodologies. And yet still there was tons of crying, tons of wakings, tons of bottle and breast action.
And dad was like, this was like a thing where like both parents were up. I mean, it was all hands on deck in the middle of the night and also baby cranky all the time. So when, hi, he would wake up, he wouldn't wake up cooing, he would wake up curr screaming, nah. So there was just a very jarring component of,
oh my God, he's awake again. You know, just that urgency. Right. And you guys had been trying so hard to get sleep and just could not crack the nugget on this kid. Like he was a tricky kid. Right. So what was it like to go through the process? Like you guys decided to hire me, you decided to use a gentle sleep coach.
Like what made you make a decision that you needed the expert support? And then what was it, what did you like most about having that intimate one-on-one coaching experience? Yeah. Yeah. Go for it, dad. Well, I, I think we were getting some success putting him in, in bed, but yeah, many, many wake up during the night and we were kind of at loss on,
on what to do next. So then yeah. Started working with you, thinking that kind of at last resort and thinking that if that didn't work, then we would have to accept not sleeping for the next many years to come. Yeah. But then, yeah, starting working with you. I feel like we, we've seen success pretty early after a few days we were seeing less wake up later,
later wake up in the mornings and Yeah. Easier to put him in in bed and, and basically after only a few days we were saying that what you were telling us would happen was happening. So then we were very confident in, in the program and, and yeah, very confident in just applying what you were telling us to do. And that was,
that was really helping our son to go through the process and forced to get through the process. Exactly. And I think it's really important to say that, that you guys had kind of come at the moment of desperation. Most families come to me after they've tried and failed and tried and failed again. And so when they land on my doorstep, they're usually feeling very defeated.
Feeling like last resort, like you said, like, Joanna, you're my last resort, please make this work. But you know, like it's like a hail Mary kind of feeling. So a lot of times people are really scared 'cause they're thinking, okay, I'm gonna spend this money with this lady hoping that this thing that this lady is gonna be doing is gonna work.
Right. And, and, and then, you know, I always say trust the process, which feels so nebulous. But when we're in the process and we're collaborating, 'cause everything we do is a collaboration, collaboration, we are creating a sleep plan on behalf of this child. Taking into consideration everything that we know about the child's temperament, age stage,
family values, and kind of intuitively where you guys have been with your process that you were doing before about what's gonna work and what's not gonna work. And so it's very customized. And so in that customization, we were able to get really good results those first couple of nights where dad was like, oh my God, like this is working. Like,
oh my god, he is crying less, he's waking up less, he is sleeping longer chunks. Right? So it is, you know, getting that expert support is so important because you're getting the details and you're getting the plan that takes away the doubt and the plan that takes away the two couple, like the husband and wife or the partners, like kind of eh,
at each other. Like, you didn't do this and you should have done that. We, all of that goes and what we start getting is results, which is amazing. So on that note, tell us what it looks like now. Like how many hours a night is he sleeping? What's his naps like? Like get like, give us the result.
Like what does life look like now? Well, it is, is honestly pretty incredible. I, I have said this many times to all my friends and family, couldn't believe that sleep training can be that effective. Basically everything we dreamt of is we, we have now. So we wanted him to sleep through the night, he's sleeping through the night.
We want him to be able to fall asleep by himself. He's doing that. We wanted him to not wake up at four instead wake up at a more human hour. And he's doing that too, bottle weaning at night, which thought was super impossible because he was drinking three large bottles and otherwise he's just screaming that he's hungry. But now he doesn't need that.
We shifted the calorie to to morning and then Yeah. And also nap. Right. Not having to spend our whole day in the dark room. And so, so does he trying to get him to nap and so that he can do a nap easily and, and quickly, Mr. Natural. Oh, we also also were able to do falling asleep in the stroller,
in the car, in the car. Not possible before. So make us, yeah. So open up more possibilities. More possibilities. You have a life. Yeah. So yeah. Is, I mean, everything. Yeah. And a two hour nap during the day, which is amazing. So now you guys have a super reliable schedule. So that la that brings me to my next question is what's possible for you now that wasn't possible before,
now that he has this beautiful schedule, he's waking up well rested. Like what, what's possible for you now that was literally not possible before sleep training, Planning a life. Yeah. Knowing that we can have dinners and we can have activities at night while he is sleeping and enjoying also the, the mornings now that he is waking up Yeah. Between six to seven and,
and rested and having a good night. And we can enjoy our mornings with him and not struggle to start our day in a, in a chaotic way. Yeah. Anything else to add? Well, Mom, you said that like, now when you go to work meetings, you show up like fresh instead of whining that you had a bad night. Right.
That you, you know, professionally, like you're feeling, you're showing up professionally to your work meetings, feeling like, I'm ready, you know, I'm here. I'm not just like, oh my God, forgive me, my brain's not working today. Like you're showing up, like I'm here, I can do it. Right? Yeah. Yeah.
Just to also just have a reliable schedule is really nice. Otherwise, our life is on pause. We cannot, cannot schedule anything as everything is surrounded. We need to see how the baby sleep and then we'll know what kind of day we have, but now we Yeah. Have a higher confidence on how the day will go. Amazing. Yeah, that's huge.
That's so huge that you can actually plan your life because you know, you have a well-rested child and then you can, you know, plan fun family events. Like you guys just went out to a date night and went to a movie and dinner. I mean, that was not even a possibility before because you were spending hours trying to get him to sleep.
So if you met a really tired family and they were like confused, you know, should I do sleep training? Should I not, should I hire coach? Should I not? What, what do you want them to know that now your, you know, your future self now knows that you wish that you had known back then? I would say get sleep,
do sleep coaching, either DIY or with a coach right away. And I would not wait because our only regret is that we have, we waited too long. Yeah. And that it, it is a very unnecessary thing on both well, our, our life was unnecessary, harder than it shouldn't be. And also the baby, we worry that the baby maybe suffers some of the consequence.
Yeah. The sleep. Yes. I mean, sleep coaching has been magical as surprisingly effective. Hey, I love that sleep coaching is magical and surprisingly effective. I love that. That is amazing. And you weren't scared, right? Like, you don't, you didn't like you because you guys were, you know, he, so their baby boy has a very big personality and can be very intense and can have big,
big jarring cries like we said in the beginning. So you were surprised that like his crying was less than you ever expected. In fact, it was less crying than when you were actually doing all the things to try to get him to go to sleep. So, you know, that's, that's also so fun is that when you realize like, oh my God,
I made sleep training be this big, scary, awful thing. And in fact, this process was so like calm and focused and sequential and we all knew what we were doing. So we had confidence. We were in the same, you know, we were on the same page. So we weren't arguing anymore. We were seeing incremental progress. So we would,
we could validate what our next step was like. It, it's, it's, it's just, it's way better. I mean, I, I love having coaches because I feel like you get the results you're looking for faster with less drama. Because sometimes when you DYI, you're always in self-doubt and you're always second guessing yourself. But in this case, we're in collaboration and we're mo moving sequentially towards the result.
And we get there and that's why we have the celebration call because like you said, you got everything on your wishlist, you know, so it's amazing. So thank you Daphne and Jonas for trusting me and for going on this journey with me. And welcome to the well-Rested Family Revolution. That's one of my favorite things to say. You are now a part of a select group of families that can get their life back and enjoy being part of the well-Rested Family Revolution.
Thank you. Yay. I know. Okay. Thank you. Thank you.
Navigating Life After Sleep Training
As parents, we often breathe a sigh of relief once sleep training is successfully behind us. But the journey doesn't end there. Maintaining those hard-won sleep habits and ensuring our children continue to benefit from restful nights requires vigilance, understanding, and sometimes, a return to the basics we thought we had moved past.
Celebrating Milestones and Setting New Goals
The journey of sleep training is often marked by significant milestones:
The first night your child falls asleep independently,
The first full night they sleep through
The moment you realize bedtime is no longer a battle but a peaceful routine.
Celebrating these milestones is crucial, not just for parents but for our children too. Recognizing their hard work in achieving these sleep skills is essential for reinforcing positive behaviors and maintaining momentum.
Once your child is sleeping through the night, its time to look at new goals and routines Such as:
Moving on to nap training
Introducing another caregiver
Date nights
Overnights with grandma,
Enrolling them in childcare
A family vacation?
Goals are specific to each family but once your child sleeps through the night all these “I wish” thoughts are easier to see as attainable. With the right plan in place, all of these are possible.
What is your next goal? What does a well-rested child allow you to do now?
Anticipating and Addressing Regressions
Even after successful sleep training, regressions can occur. Changes in routine, illness, travel, and developmental leaps can all trigger setbacks. Being aware of these potential challenges and preparing to address them calmly and consistently helps maintain the progress your child has made. It's crucial to review what led to successful sleep training in the first place and apply those principles again, adjusting as needed for your child's current age and needs. The most common regressions I see are
Illness
Travel
Time change
Too many days “off schedule” within a week
Not to worry, all is not lost. With Gentle Sleep coaching, you have taught your child the skills of sleep so navigating these temporary setbacks is just reinforcing what your child already knows how to do. As always, I am here to help and give advice if you feel overwhelmed with these regressions.
The Importance of Routine and Sleep Hygiene
A consistent bedtime routine and sleep hygiene practices are very important. Even after a child has learned to fall asleep independently, the structure around bedtime—such as winding down activities, a quiet and dark sleep environment, and a consistent bedtime—remains critical. These routines signal to your child that it's time to sleep, helping their body and mind prepare for rest.
Please know this does not mean NEVER going off scheduling. You did the work. Your child has their sleep skills so it’s important to enjoy your life but keep in mind the importance of routine.
Navigating Changes and Growth
As children grow, their sleep needs and challenges evolve. School-aged children might face anxieties about bedtime, deal with extra curricular activities over-scheduling, or struggle with the desire for more autonomy versus the comfort of parental presence at bedtime. Parents must adapt strategies to address these changing needs while reinforcing the fundamental sleep skills their child has developed. This might include discussions about bedtime fears, negotiating acceptable bedtime routines that offer autonomy while ensuring sleep hygiene, and adjusting bedtime as needed to accommodate their growing bodies' needs.
The Role of Health and Nutrition
An often-overlooked aspect of maintaining sleep quality post-training is a child's overall health and nutrition, including ensuring they receive adequate vitamins and minerals. For instance, deficiencies in vitamin D and iron can affect sleep quality and energy levels during the day. Regular health check-ups and a balanced diet can support not only your child's sleep but their overall well-being.
Continued Support and Adaptation
Parents can find comfort in knowing that the skills and strategies they've instilled in their children form a solid foundation, one that can support adjustments and address challenges as they arise.
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!
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!
https://www.instagram.com/littlelivewires
https://www.facebook.com/littlelivewires
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.
#consciousparenting #gentleparenting #highlysensitivechild #littlelivewires #spiritedbaby #spiritedchild #highneedsbaby #tiredmommy #realmomlife #parentfail #parentsupport #positiveparenting #parentingtips #babysleepcoach #parenting #babysleephelp #gentlesleeptraining #sleeptraining #babysleeping #parenthood #motherhood #Sleepsupport #ineedsleep #exhaustedmommy #tiredmama
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.