Have you ever wondered why your baby might be a natural night owl or an early bird? Some babies wake up at sunrise, ready to start the day, while others resist bedtime and stay active late into the night. This isn’t just a random preference—it’s influenced by biology, genetics, and daily routines. Understanding your baby’s natural sleep rhythm can help you work with their internal clock rather than against it. This knowledge is key to creating a routine that supports their well-being. If you're struggling to make sense of your baby’s sleep habits, sleep consultants can offer guidance on finding the right approach.

The Science of Sleep Rhythms in Babies

Babies aren’t born with fully developed sleep-wake cycles. Instead, their circadian rhythms—the internal body clock that regulates sleep—develop over the first few months of life. Exposure to light and darkness helps shape this cycle, but hormones also play a major role.

The most important hormones are:

• Melatonin, the sleep hormone, rises in the evening, making babies feel drowsy.
• Cortisol, the wakefulness hormone, peaks in the morning, encouraging alertness.

​These hormones work together, setting the foundation for sleep preferences. Since each baby’s body produces these hormones differently, it’s no surprise that some naturally prefer late nights while others thrive on early mornings.

Genetics and Sleep Preferences

Your baby’s sleep tendencies might be inherited. If you or your partner are night owls, there’s a good chance your little one will be too. On the other hand, if early mornings come naturally to you, your baby may follow suit. People often underestimate how parents' sleep patterns affect their children's sleep success. Research suggests that sleep chronotypes—whether someone is a morning or night person—have a strong genetic component. 

However, genetics don’t dictate everything. Environment and habits can shape a baby’s sleep, but knowing their natural inclination can help you set realistic expectations. Instead of trying to mold your baby into a different pattern, recognizing their tendencies can reduce frustration and lead to better rest for everyone.

Environmental Factors That Shape Sleep Patterns

While genetics play a role, external influences also impact a baby’s sleep-wake cycle. The amount of light exposure, feeding schedules, and daily activities all contribute to when your baby feels sleepy or alert. For example, a baby exposed to bright light early in the morning may develop an earlier wake-up time. Likewise, late-evening stimulation—such as screen time or loud noises—can push bedtime later.

One often-overlooked factor is how seasonal changes affect children’s sleep. During longer daylight hours in summer, babies may resist bedtime, while in winter, they might wake up later due to extended darkness. Adjusting their environment, like using blackout curtains or white noise machines, can help maintain a consistent routine year-round.

Recognizing Signs of a Natural Early Bird vs. Night Owl

Every baby is unique, but there are clear signs that reveal whether they lean toward early mornings or late nights. Identifying these tendencies can help you align their schedule with their natural rhythm.

Babies who are early risers often:

• Wake up happy and full of energy before sunrise.
• Show signs of tiredness by early evening.
• Struggle with staying up past their natural bedtime.

Babies who are night owls tend to:

• Be most active in the late afternoon or evening.
• Resist bedtime and need extra winding down at night.
• Sleep in later if given the chance.

Recognizing these traits can make bedtime routines smoother. Instead of fighting against their natural rhythm, finding a balance that respects their tendencies can lead to more restful nights and happier mornings.

Adapting Sleep Routines to Your Baby’s Natural Rhythm

Understanding why your baby might be a natural night owl or an early bird helps set expectations. Instead of forcing a schedule, small adjustments create a smoother transition into sleep.

Many babies resist sudden changes. Shifting sleep times gradually by 10 to 15 minutes each night works better than large jumps. A consistent bedtime routine signals when sleep is near. Dim lights, soft music, and quiet activities prepare babies for rest. Some babies struggle with winding down. A short bath or gentle rocking in a dim room calms them. Others wake too early. Dark curtains and a white noise machine help extend sleep. Observing what soothes them makes bedtime easier.

When to Encourage Sleep Adjustments

The fact that your kid might be an early riser or a night owl doesn't have to dictate everything - it can be tweaked. Some parents find that moving with a baby disrupts established sleep patterns. A new home, different time zones, or changes in routine often lead to unexpected wake-ups and restless nights. This transition presents an opportunity to adjust a baby’s natural sleep rhythm if needed.

Daycare schedules, family routines, or work commitments may not align with a baby’s usual bedtime or wake-up time. Moving offers a chance to shift sleep habits in a way that suits the household.

Early risers might need help extending sleep in the new environment. Offering a small morning feeding in dim light encourages them to rest a little longer. Babies who prefer late nights benefit from exposure to natural light early in the day. Taking them outside soon after waking helps regulate their internal clock.

Adjustments take time. Changing sleep schedules in small increments over weeks works better than abrupt shifts. If a baby resists, patience makes the process smoother. Forcing a new routine too quickly often leads to more disruption.

Common Sleep Myths and Misconceptions

Many believe that all babies should sleep through the night early on. This idea often causes frustration. In reality, some babies need nighttime feedings longer than others. Another misconception suggests that later bedtimes lead to later wake-ups. Often, the opposite happens. Overtired babies wake earlier and struggle to fall asleep. Some parents assume rigid sleep schedules work for every child. While structure helps, forcing an early bird to stay up late or a night owl to wake early leads to unnecessary struggles. However, if you still want your baby to have a sleep schedule, try simple solutions to help your child sleep well. 

Now You Know Why Your Baby Might Be a Natural Night Owl or an Early Bird

Understanding why your baby might be a natural night owl or an early bird removes the pressure to fit into one mold. Accepting a baby’s natural rhythm leads to better sleep for everyone. Instead of battling their sleep tendencies, adjusting routines creates a balance that works. Small changes help guide them into a pattern that fits family life. Observing their cues leads to a happier, well-rested baby.

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Does your child suddenly fear bedtime after moving to a new neighborhood? You're not alone. A new home can feel exciting during the day but turn unsettling at night. The unfamiliar sounds, shadows, and spaces can all make falling asleep difficult. Thankfully, with a few simple strategies, helping kids cope with nighttime fears is possible—one night at a time.

Why Moving Triggers Nighttime Fears

A move brings big changes, and for kids, those changes can feel overwhelming—especially at night. The once-familiar comfort of their old home is gone, replaced by new surroundings that don’t yet feel safe. This adjustment can be even more challenging when relocating with children across long distances. A completely new environment, different time zones, and an unfamiliar community can intensify feelings of uncertainty, making it harder for your child to feel at ease in their new home.

That said, here’s why your child might be struggling with nighttime fears after the move:

• Unfamiliar environment: New rooms, different furniture arrangements, and strange noises can make their new bedroom feel unsettling.
• Loss of routine: Moving often disrupts bedtime habits, making it harder for kids to feel settled.
• Emotional stress: Leaving behind friends, family, or even a favorite park can create feelings of sadness and uncertainty.
• Increased sensitivity: Kids are naturally more aware of small changes, like the way light filters through new curtains or the sound of distant traffic.

Signs Your Child Is Struggling with Nighttime Fears

Adjusting to a new home takes time. However, if your child is experiencing persistent nighttime fears, they may show clear signs that they're struggling.

Here’s what to watch for:

• Frequent waking up at night – If your child wakes up multiple times or has trouble falling back asleep, they may feel anxious about their new surroundings.
• Bedtime resistance – Prolonged stalling, requests to stay up later, or wanting to sleep in your room can indicate feelings of insecurity.
• Clinginess and seeking reassurance – If your child suddenly needs more comfort or wants you nearby more often, they might be feeling unsettled.
• Nightmares or night terrors – Stress from the move can trigger bad dreams or intense fears that disrupt their sleep.
• Physical symptoms – Complaints of tummy aches, headaches, or feeling “too scared to sleep” can be linked to nighttime anxiety.

If you've noticed any of these signs, don’t worry—there are ways to help your child feel more comfortable and confident at bedtime.

Helping Kids Cope With Nighttime Fears After a Move

Helping kids cope with nighttime fears after moving to a new neighborhood takes patience and a thoughtful approach. The key is to create a comforting environment that feels familiar while gradually building their confidence.

That said, here are some practical ways to help make this transition smoother.

1. Create a Familiar Sleep Environment
One of the most effective ways to ease your child’s nighttime fears is by making their new bedroom feel familiar. You can do so by bringing comforting items from their old room—such as their favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or pillow—into their new one.

Arranging their furniture similarly to how it was in their previous room can also help them feel more at home. Additionally, using a soft nightlight or a white noise machine can minimize fear of the dark and block out unfamiliar sounds that might make them anxious.

2. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine
A predictable bedtime routine can provide much-needed stability during the adjustment period. The routine can include activities like reading a bedtime story, taking a warm bath, or listening to soft music. Moreover, it’s important to limit screen time before bed, as the blue light from devices can interfere with their ability to fall asleep and increase feelings of restlessness.

3. Encourage Open Conversations
Talking about fears can make a big difference in how your child copes with their new surroundings. Therefore, encourage them to share their feelings and let them know it’s okay to be scared. Instead of dismissing their fears, validate their emotions and provide reassurance that everything will be fine.

Additionally, explaining unfamiliar nighttime noises—like creaky floors or the hum of distant traffic—can help demystify their new environment and reduce fear.

4. Introduce Positive Associations with Their New Room
Helping your child build positive connections with their new room can make it feel more welcoming. One way to do this is by involving them in decorating their space, allowing them to choose bedding, wall art, or other decorations that reflect their personality.

Also, spending quality time in their room during the day, whether through reading, playing, or relaxing, can make the space feel more familiar and safe when it’s time for bed.

5. Teach Self-Soothing Techniques
Giving your child tools to manage their fears independently can boost their confidence at night. Simple techniques such as deep breathing exercises can help them calm down when they feel anxious.

Another effective method is teaching them to repeat a comforting phrase, such as “I am safe in my new home.” Similarly, hugging a favorite stuffed animal or squeezing a stress ball can provide physical comfort and reassurance.

When to Seek Professional Help

While most kids adjust to their new home with time and support, some may continue to struggle with nighttime fears despite your best efforts. If their anxiety persists and starts affecting their daily life, it may be time to seek professional help.

You should consider reaching out to a pediatrician or child therapist if your child:
Has trouble sleeping for an extended period – If your child consistently struggles to fall asleep or wakes up multiple times throughout the night for weeks, professional guidance can help address underlying anxiety.

• Shows extreme fear or distress at bedtime – If their fears become overwhelming and interfere with their ability to function during the day, it’s a sign that extra support may be needed.
• Experiences behavior changes – Increased irritability, mood swings, or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed could indicate deeper emotional struggles.
• Develop physical symptoms tied to anxiety – Persistent headaches, stomachaches, or other complaints with no medical explanation might be their way of expressing stress.
• Has persistent nightmares or night terrors – Occasional bad dreams are normal, but recurring intense nightmares may require professional intervention to help your child feel safe.

Seeking help from a professional can provide valuable coping strategies tailored to your child’s specific needs. With the right support, they can learn to manage their fears and regain a sense of comfort in their new home.

Final Thoughts

Helping your child adjust to a new home takes time, patience, and consistency. Nighttime fears are a natural response to change, but with the right approach, you can create an environment where they feel safe and secure.

Remember, small changes—like maintaining familiar bedtime routines, offering reassurance, and encouraging open conversations—can have a big impact. As your child gradually becomes more comfortable, their confidence will grow, and bedtime will become less of a struggle.
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If helping kids cope with nighttime fears takes time, don’t be discouraged. Each child adjusts at their own pace, and showing empathy and support will help them feel understood. However, if their fears persist and start affecting their well-being, seeking professional help can provide additional guidance to ensure they feel fully at ease in their new home. 

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Fireworks displays are a big part of many national celebrations, and the Fourth of July is probably the biggest right behind New Years. These dazzling shows can be a magical experience for the whole family. However, taking your baby to see fireworks requires careful planning to ensure their safety and comfort, as well as a few considerations. We'll cover everything you need to know about bringing your baby to a fireworks display, from preparing for the event to managing noise and lights.

Should You Take Your Baby to See Fireworks?

Really…it’s ok if you don’t go. As much as you want to spend the evening out and show your baby or toddler all the fun of fireworks, you may want to think about the logistics, your baby’s age and temperament, and the location to watch the fireworks. 

If your baby is under the age of 6 months, this mama recommends staying at home due to the late hour and overwhelming nature of the fireworks display. Who wants to get all the way out to the field, only to listen to your baby scream for 20 minutes during the show and no one gets to enjoy it. 

Is It Safe to Take Babies to Fireworks?

If you decide to take your baby or toddler to see a fireworks display, the safety and well-being of your baby should be your top priority. Fireworks displays can be quite overwhelming for babies due to the crowds of people,  loud noises and bright lights. 

Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

• Noise Levels: Fireworks can reach sound levels of up to 150 decibels, which can be harmful to a baby's sensitive ears. Protecting your baby's hearing is crucial.
• Light Sensitivity:The bright flashes of light from fireworks can startle or distress your baby.
• Crowds and Environment: Fireworks displays often attract large crowds, which can be overwhelming for both you and your baby. Ensure you have a comfortable and safe spot to watch the show.

Proper preparation can make the experience enjoyable for both you and your baby. Here are some steps to take before heading out:

1. Choose a Baby-Friendly Location:

• Find a spot that's a safe distance from the fireworks. This reduces noise levels and provides a less intense light show.
• Consider watching from a nearby park, a hill, or even your car, where you can control the environment more effectively.

2. Bring Essential Supplies:

• Pack noise-canceling headphones or earplugs designed for babies to protect their hearing.
• Bring a stroller with a canopy to shield your baby from the bright lights and provide a cozy, secure space.
• Carry all the essentials: diapers, wipes, bottles, snacks, and a change of clothes for you and for the baby.

3. Plan Your Timing:

• Arrive early to secure a good spot and avoid the rush of people.
• Be mindful of your baby’s schedule. Ensure your baby has had a good nap beforehand.

Once you've arrived and set up your spot, here are some tips to keep your baby comfortable and safe during the show:

1. Protect Your Baby's Ears:

• Use noise-canceling headphones or earplugs specifically designed for infants to reduce the impact of loud sounds.
• Hold your baby close, as the sound of your heartbeat and your touch provides additional comfort and reassurance.

2. Monitor Your Baby's Reaction:

• Pay close attention to your baby’s behavior. If Baby seems distressed or frightened, be prepared to leave the area or move further away from the fireworks.
• Comfort your baby with gentle rocking, soothing words, or a favorite toy.

3. Manage Light Exposure:

• Use the canopy on your stroller or a light blanket to shield your baby from the brightest flashes of light.
• Hold your baby facing away from the fireworks if they seem startled by the lights.

After the show, it's important to help your baby wind down and return to their normal routine. Here’s how:

1. Allow for a Calm Transition:

• Give your baby time to adjust after the excitement. A quiet, dimly lit environment can help them relax.
• Offer a feeding or a soothing bedtime routine to signal that it’s time to sleep.

2. Get Baby to Bed!

• Provide extra comfort and reassurance as needed to help them settle.

Taking your baby to see fireworks can be a wonderful experience with the right preparation and precautions. By choosing a suitable location, protecting your baby's ears and eyes, and closely monitoring their reactions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable outing for the entire family. Remember, every baby is different, so it’s essential to stay attuned to your baby's needs and be ready to adjust your plans accordingly. With these tips in mind, you and your baby can enjoy the magic of fireworks together, creating special memories that will last a lifetime.

Shifting your toddler from a crib to a big bed marks a significant milestone in both your lives. This change involves much more than simply moving toddlers out of cribs. It signals a new phase of independence for your child. Introducing a big kid bed too early or too late can lead to sleep disruptions and anxiety, both for the child and the parents. Therefore, recognizing the right moment based on your child's development and readiness is essential. This guide aims to assist parents through this transition. It offers practical advice and tips to help you and your toddler confidently embrace this new chapter.

Recognizing Readiness Signs

When should you transition your toddler from a crib to a big kid's bed? Look for signs like climbing out of the crib or expressing interest in beds. Physically, toddlers should be able to walk and climb with confidence. Emotionally, they might start asking for a larger bed or enjoy spending time in one at a friend’s or relative’s house. 

In contrast, there are indicators that your toddler may not be ready for such a transition. These include showing signs of anxiety about changing sleeping environments or having a recent regression in other developmental areas like toilet training. If they seem particularly attached to their crib or have major life changes like a new sibling on the way, it might be wise to delay the transition. Watching for these cues will help you choose the best time to move, ensuring it is a positive experience.

Moving Toddlers out of Cribs: A Smooth Transition

Moving toddlers out of cribs to a big kid bed should be managed with careful planning. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth adjustment:

• Introduce the New Bed: Place the new bed alongside the crib. Let your toddler explore and get familiar with it during the day.
• Start with Naps: Begin the transition by having your toddler take daytime naps in the new bed.
• Engage in Positive Reinforcement: Praise your toddler for spending time in their new bed. Talk positively about growing up and moving to a big bed.
• Make the Full Switch: Once your toddler seems comfortable napping in the bed, use it for overnight sleep. Initially, stay nearby until they fall asleep to provide comfort.

Above all, don't rush the process. Allow your toddler to move at a comfortable speed, and be patient and supportive throughout the change.

Setting a Positive Bedtime Routine

​Moving toddlers from cribs requires revamping the bedtime routine to ease the transition. A consistent bedtime routine helps toddlers predict what comes next, offering them security and stability. Start this routine at the same time each night and include soothing activities that signal that it is time to wind down. You should also integrate elements your child finds relaxing and enjoyable to create a comforting atmosphere. It could involve reading their favorite books or incorporating playtime with a beloved toy. These familiar items provide comfort and make the big kid's bed feel more inviting. These bedtime rituals can help your toddler settle into sleep more readily. They enhance the overall experience of moving to a new bed, making it something they can look forward to each night. 

Preparing the Environment

Setting up your toddler's new sleeping area involves careful selection and arrangement to ensure comfort and safety. First, choose a bed that suits your child’s current size and can accommodate growth over the next few years. Position the bed in a safe part of the room—away from windows and heavy furniture that could pose risks. A central spot where the room can be easily viewed is ideal, promoting a feeling of security. Making the bed visually appealing can significantly ease the transition. Use bright colors or themes that your child loves. Encourage them to spend time in and around their new bed. 

If you find that some old furniture or decor no longer fits as you reorganize your child's room, you can sell or donate it. However, if it holds sentimental value and you are not ready to part with it, you can simply place it into storage. In this case, Beltway Movers DMV can offer convenient storage solutions. Plus, this moving company can also help you transport these items to their new location.

Involving Your Toddler in the Process

Involving your toddler in the process of transitioning from a crib to a big kid bed ensures they feel comfortable and excited about the change. Allowing your child to have a say in selecting their new bed or bedding can make a significant difference. Encourage them to choose designs and colors that resonate with their interests, whether it’s a favorite cartoon character or a general theme like space or animals. During the shopping, you might suggest they pick a special comfort item, such as a new stuffed animal or a cozy blanket. This item will accompany them in the new bed, providing a sense of continuity and security. For this reason, actively involving them in these decisions makes the process fun while giving them a sense of ownership and control over the situation, drastically reducing anxiety associated with the change. ​

Dealing with Resistance or Regression

Transitioning isn’t always smooth sailing, and it is normal for some children to resist or regress during this period. One common challenge is nighttime visits to the parents' room. It can happen as your child adjusts to the new sleeping environment and may seek comfort from familiar surroundings. To handle these visits, first ensure you calmly lead them back to their bed, reinforcing that it’s where they sleep now. Consistency here is crucial. Nevertheless, remain patient and provide reassurance. A comforting word or a quick cuddle can help them feel secure. But, try to avoid prolonging these interactions to encourage independence. Another strategy is to make their room as inviting and comforting as possible. Use night lights, keep the door slightly open, or consider a sleep training clock that signals when it is okay to get up.

Safety Tips for the New Bed

Make sure your toddler's new bed is safe. Select a mattress that is firm enough to support your toddler adequately without being too hard. The fit of the mattress within the bed frame is also critical. It should snugly meet the edges without leaving gaps that could trap little arms or legs. To further enhance safety, conduct a thorough bedroom check for potential hazards. Secure furniture to the wall to prevent tipping, and make sure there are no loose cords or curtains near the bed where your child could get entangled. Further, remove small toys or objects that could be choking hazards, and ensure all outlets are covered. By taking these precautions, you can create a safe environment that allows your child to explore their independence while ensuring they remain protected.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our guide on moving toddlers out of cribs, it's important to remember the vital steps for a successful transition. From recognizing readiness signs to preparing the environment, involving your toddler in the process, and establishing a positive bedtime routine, each step plays a crucial role in making this shift as smooth as possible. To all parents facing this transition, take heart. This change, while significant, can be managed with care and attention. In short, maintaining patience and consistency throughout the process will support your child's adjustment. It ensures they feel secure and comfortable in their new bed.

Photos used: 
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When you have a newborn, it goes without saying that all bets are off when it comes to sleep. It's a dizzying adjustment being on call around the clock. But when my little one reached the 3-month mark, I felt like things were starting to stabilize... somewhat. On good days, naps were beginning to have a semblance of order, yet on other days I was pulling my hair out wondering how to get my 3-month-old baby to nap, because nothing — short of strapping on the baby carrier and walking until my legs ached — seemed to work.

If you too find yourself going to great lengths to get your 3-month-old baby to sleep (driving around the block on repeat, or shushing until your lips literally feel numb, anyone?), then you'll be heartened to know that nap schedules typically start to develop around 3 to 4 months, according to Janet K. Kennedy, PhD, clinical psychologist and author of The Good Sleeper: The Essential Guide to Sleep for Your Baby (and You), and founder of NYC Sleep Doctor.

Assuming your baby is getting up for the day between 6 or 7 a.m., Dr. Kennedy says that somewhere around 3 months you'll start to see "the first nap of the day becoming more reliable and lengthening to an hour or more around 8 - 9 a.m. Over the weeks that follow, the second and third naps consolidate and become reliably timed as well."

However, while some babies do fall into natural sleep rhythms, that doesn't mean that naps will magically just happen. Parents have to be vigilant about looking for sleep cues, which can include a baby "rubbing their eyes, yawning, getting fussy, or turning their head away from you," according to Christine Stevens, a Washington D.C.-based sleep consultant and founder of Sleep Solutions by Christine, in an interview with Romper.

Having a child can be a pretty jarring experience. From pregnancy, to labor, to life with a new little human; realizing that you are responsible for another little life is a huge reality check. We make sacrifices for our children daily out of love and sometimes necessity. But having a child does not mean that mom and/or dad need to forget about their own needs. Parenthood is like a game where you need to find the perfect combo to meet everyone's needs sufficiently, including your own. Sleep is a huge necessity for parents! All humans need sleep to function and a lack of sleep can seriously impact your mood, ability to care for your family, and your overall well being. Having your child sleep in your bed may greatly impact the amount and the quality of sleep you are getting. What do you do when your child wants to sleep in your bed? 

Set a hard boundary.

This can be a tough thing to do but parenting is, quite frankly, not easy. The best thing you can do for yourself and your child if you do not want them sleeping in your bed is to simply not let them. Of course, I know this may result in tantrums and loss of sleep for the family at first. But holding this boundary will show your child that you value good sleep for everyone in the family and you prioritize taking care of yourself (which will teach them to prioritize their own needs in the future!). 

If you’ve decided that you no longer want your child in your bed with you, I suggest having an honest, open mindset. Accept that this transition may be hard for a while but will be worth it in the long run once everyone is sleeping well in their own space. During the day, offer your child lots of snuggles and physical affection so they can still feel close to you. Sleeping in their own bed takes away the feeling of physical closeness they enjoyed when co-sleeping with you. As you transition your child to their own bed, stay with them in their room and comfort them. This will help them to not feel completely abandoned. As time goes on, your child will get used to being in their bed by themselves. You can decide how long to stay in the room. Try making a routine of reading them a story before leaving or set a limit for how long you will be in their room. For the first night it may be necessary to stay until they fall asleep. Figure out what works best for both you and your child, but continue to hold firm to the fact that their bed is where they are expected to sleep. 

If you’re trying to transition your child out of your bed and having difficulty, book a 15 minute discovery call with me and we can troubleshoot together! 

I recently spoke with 2 parents whose biggest sleep struggle was co-sleeping with their 5-year old. These busy working parents were having a discussion with me about the best way to get their child sleeping all night in his own bed when he was currently sleeping in their bed from bedtime to morning. A parent had to lay down with him and they were tied to him all night. They really wanted to know how to get their kid to sleep without laying down with him.
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Dad was happy to recount fond memories of sleeping in his parents bed and how he was happy to continue letting him sleep with them. The look on mom’s face was not so inviting or happy. Both parents worked full time jobs, sometimes working from home, and both were deep into a training plan for an upcoming marathon. Mom was ready to have their bed back to themselves and get a full night of sleep.

While co-sleeping or bedsharing with a child is just one scenario, there are plenty of situations where parents could disagree when it comes to their children. You may disagree on the best way or most comfortable way to sleep train your child or how to handle sleep regressions. Whatever the situation, here are a few tips and considerations to have a meaningful conversation. 

Parents should think of how each parent feels about co-sleeping with their child and consider the other parent’s feelings on it. Have an open mind about seeing the situation from your spouse’s perspective. This will make you more receptive to coming to a decision together. 

Second, consider also the potential impacts to the family, other children, and everyone’s mental health and wellness. Will co-sleeping with one child mean that another child is always alone or doesn’t get as much time with mom/dad? Without having an open mindset and considering how everyone is impacted, it’s difficult to see why your opinions differ. Parent’s need to consider what is best for everyone, including both mom and dad. Thinking about these things may bring a new perspective that can change a parent's mind. 

Third, consider how well everyone is sleeping. Parenting should be a partnership! If everyone who shares the bed is getting plenty of sleep (7-9 hours for adults, 10-12 hours for kids overnight), then ok. Rock on. If one or both parents are complaining about bad sleep, it may be time to reconsider. 

Discerning how much weight each impact on the family holds can show you which opinion should prevail in your decision. Talking through the perspectives mentioned above can help parents get on the same page in moving forward with their child’s sleep habits. 
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Need a third party to help you work through the best decision for your family? Schedule a free call today with us and we’ll help you determine the best way forward. 

In this era of economic uncertainty, many parents searching for sleep training help for their toddlers, babies and children are coming up with creative ways to help pay for all of that support and assistance to get their children sleeping all night. Working with an experienced, knowledgeable pediatric sleep coach can be a big financial commitment.  

Hiring a sleep consultant or sleep trainer can be costly depending on the sleep consultant’s experience and services offered, so make sure you now exactly what you’re getting for your money. 

Since I trained as a sleep consultant 8 years ago, it’s become much more common for parents to seek assistance with sleep training, yet insurance companies haven’t quite caught up and cover it along with other insurance benefits such as lactation consultants and chiropractors. 

One avenue parents have researched is how to get their medical insurance to pay for it. Now it's not guaranteed that insurance will pay for sleep training but it’s possible you can use your flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) to pay for it. I’ve had a few clients come back to tell me they successfully had my services paid for by their insurance.

Get Pre-Approved

First, check with your individual insurance carrier to see if they cover Sleep Services, Newborn Care particularly out of network Sleep Consultants. make sure that you find out exactly what you'll need in order to be paid. Sleep Consultants are considered alternative, out of network therapies, thus requiring parents to pay upfront and be reimbursed by their insurance company. Make sure that you check with your carrier to see if they cover it.

Determine the Required Documents

Your insurance company should be able to tell you exactly what paperwork is required, such as a detailed invoice, dates of service, exactly what services are being utilized or diagnosis code. 

How to Pay for a Sleep Consultant

You may need to pay upfront and be reimbursed, or use your HSA debit card to pay. Either way, you’ll get a detailed receipt that you can send back for reimbursement.

Finding a sleep consultant near you that fits your family both in personality, their services and support can be a big financial decision and families should explore alternative routes.

And if you are not able to get your health insurance to pay for a sleep coach or consultant, there are a few other alternative routes including crowdsourcing, gift certificates and buy now- pay later options as well. If you find a sleep consultant that you really want to work with and feel they believe the service they offer is worth it, look at different ways of paying for it so that you and your child can get to sleep that you need. 

From Southeast to Northwest DC, moms across the city are juggling it all... work, homelife, their children and particularly, their sleep routines. And when their toddlers and babies aren't sleeping, neither are they. The toll sleep deprivation takes on a mother and her family is far reaching... everything from missed deadlines at work and trying to get a baby to nap when the virtual work-from-home meeting is starting, to having little to no time in the evening to spend with a spouse, work on house chores or just a little time alone. 

So if you're dealing with a sleep regression, popping in a binkie/pacifier multiple times per night or trying to decide which sleep training method is right for you, contact us and set up a free introductory call to ask any questions you like. 

Twins! Twice the fun and double the love. With any baby, sleep training can be hard. As a parent of twins, it can seem downright impossible. But sleep training twins can be successful with a few tips to get you started. 

The biggest thing to consider when getting ready to sleep train twins is their adjusted age. Chances are, when your babies were born, they were not full term. This means they have a bit of catching up to do developmentally before they’re ready to form the best sleep habits. If you’re calculating their age based on the day they were born, you may be attempting to sleep train before they are ready. 

A big misconception that I hear often is that sleep training requires letting your baby cry it out. This can make a twin parent cringe! How can you let one baby cry it out with the other one trying to sleep nearby? The cry-it-out method is not the only sleep training method you can use. Look into other methods such as the pick up/put down method or the chair method (which could potentially be used for both twins at once!). In addition, if one baby is sleeping better than the other, consider having them sleep in another room temporarily while you train their sibling. Twins tend to be on the same routine once it’s established, but getting there may take some work. 

Listening to your baby's cues also helps immensely. As new parents, we often feel the need to document everything and feed on a schedule. During the night time, let your babies sleep and only feed them if they wake! This may seem pretty obvious, but if your baby is gaining weight as they should be, get the sleep while you can and let them tell you when they’re ready to eat again. 

Lastly, as a twin parent, celebrate your successes no matter how small! You are working so hard and any steps you make towards better sleep should be recognized. Dropped a night feeding? Hooray! Got both babes to self-soothe? Boom! Give yourself a pat on the back. 

I want to know, have you trained infant twins? What tips and tricks worked for you? 

There are three key aspects to focus on in helping your child develop healthy and effective sleep habits. When working with clients, here is what I focus on first:

1. A Regular Bedtime Routine
Little ones thrive on consistency. They look to us, the parents/caretakers, to guide them in what they should be doing and how/when/where they should be doing it. This is why it is so important to develop routines. Babies and toddlers need consistent routines to orient themselves to where they are in their day and be able to anticipate what is coming next. Creating a regular bedtime routine that begins at (relatively) the same time each night will cue your baby to the fact that it is almost time to sleep. A simple bath, pajamas, a story/song, then off to bed routine can do wonders as long as you repeat the same actions in the same order each night.. Develop your routine based on what works best for you and your child! 

2. Boundaries Around Sleep
If you’ve been around a toddler for more than 5 minutes you’ll know that they love to push boundaries. This is a completely normal developmental milestone, and it’s important for toddlers because they are looking to you to communicate to them what is allowed and what is not. To avoid frustration and confusion, it is important to set clear boundaries for our children, and sleep habits are no exception. Beginning when Baby is young, you can communicate that the expectation at bedtime is for them to sleep in their own bed. Other boundaries you can enforce could be keeping the baby in their room/bed until a certain time each morning (who wants to get up at 5am??) or making sure your toddler is staying in their bed all night. Decide on some healthy boundaries that will serve everyone in your household. 

3. Consistency and Holding Boundaries 
With both of the above tips, consistency is key. As I mentioned before, babies and toddlers look to us to orient themselves within their day and the world at large. Keeping consistent routines and boundaries allows them to know what to expect as well as how to act. This is crucial for them to be able to develop a sense of security and understand the world around them. You’ll begin to notice your toddler taking initiative when you prompt them to begin their bedtime routine. Keep it consistent and everyone will be on the same page!

What does your bedtime routine look like? What healthy boundaries have allowed your child to develop good sleep habits? ​

Bringing a new baby into the house is very likely to impact your older child’s sleep habits in one way or another, and there are two big reasons why;

1. Your toddler will likely hear the newborn’s cries and think they should help.
2. Your toddler’s wondering why he or she is no longer the center of your world and may be a bit jealous to share your attention.

The confusion of the upheaval of a once only kid household and jealousy will likely cause sort of a regression, prompting your toddler to want the ‘only kid’ attention they enjoyed previously, such as…

● Lots of requests for snuggles
● They may want to ‘act like a baby’ again
● Requesting to sleep in your bed or in your room
● Additional stalling, antics and tantrums during the bedtime routine

The biggest reason this can affect sleep is that parents start feeling guilty about the fact that they don’t have enough hands or time to be in two places at once, so they try to compensate by giving in to all those requests, and those requests frequently show up right at bedtime. You’ll likely hear everything from requests for extra stories, staying up later, laying with them, holding hands, etc. 

Parents… I totally understand. Guilt sucks. And when we feel guilty about spending so much extra effort on a new baby, we start to do anything to make sure our kiddos know they haven’t been forgotten, get extra time with us and feel all the love. 

So what’s the harm in a few more books and laying in bed with our kid to give some extra love and attention?  

“Children are as independent as you expect them to be.” ~Maria Montessori 

It’s likely this situation will happen at some point, so here’s what you do:

Keep everything around bedtime exactly as it was before the new sibling arrived; the same bedtime routine with the same limits you had before (ex: reading 2 books), sleeping in their own bed and sleeping there all night. 

Comfort and support, but don’t change the how, where and when. 

If you start changing what’s allowed around bedtime, such as adding a dance party and saying goodnight to every stuffed animal in your child’s room, it’s only going to tell your toddler that boundaries mean nothing and trust me, they’ll take 10 miles if you give an inch. 

Second, try to focus 15-20 minutes during the day where it’s just you and your toddler, one-on-one to do something together. Your kiddo will love the extra time and snuggles. 

Never apologize to yourself or your kid for setting boundaries. If the feeling of “oh no, I have to give everything” guilt starts to set in, remember that your toddler is simply working through some big emotions, which toddlers don’t know how to navigate. You are doing the best you can and holding to your boundaries to have a happy, attached and supported kiddo. You’re an awesome parent…don’t forget that. 

Within a few weeks, your whole family will have had time to adjust to the newest member of the family and you’ll find that new groove. You’ve got this!​

You’re going back to work. You're not sure how baby will adjust once you go back to work. How do I ensure I can still breastfeed? How do you get baby on a schedule? You're doing everything you can to get your baby to sleep but you don't want to have to bounce, rock, wear, feed or drive baby around to get him or her to fall asleep. You want a solid plan to help your child start sleeping through the night and be on a good nap schedule. When your baby sleeps at night, you sleep too! 

​Tired parents are desperate to get their kids to sleep. There’s a whole industry designed to help (for a fee).

​I remember when I reached my breaking point with my son’s sleep. He had faced big changes to his little life over the previous year: an interstate move, a new house, a new preschool, and the arrival of his baby sister. His routines suffered for it, and his bedtime demands had become increasingly baroque and desperate.
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If my husband or I didn’t stay in the room with him until he fell asleep, he would explode with panic. “I’m all alone and I’m only 3 years old!” he wailed through a sheet of tears and mucus. If we left the room, he hurled his body against the door like a moth thumping a porch light.

This particular night, my husband was out of town, leaving me solo with both kids. Hours since I’d gotten him in his jammies, my son was still awake and his protests were threatening to wake the baby. This risk was unacceptable.

I pulled him out of their shared bedroom and into “the big bed” with me. The lights were off but his little overtired body wouldn’t stop twitching and jerking with excitement. As his heels jabbed at my ribs (“I’m just stretching”), I directed my phone’s glow away from his face and fired off a deranged missive via online form. Christine emailed me back the next morning.

“One of the top times that I get emails from tired parents is somewhere between midnight and 2 am,” says Christine Stevens, who owns Sleep Solutions by Christine. Stevens is a certified child and infant sleep consultant, a professional who offers services to families struggling with behavioral childhood sleep problems. She is one of the growing league of such professionals around the globe, a cohort of providers who fill this need for exhausted families.

I received so many questions last week about naps and daycare that it inspired me to do a blog post about it. I got questions such as “How do I talk with my provider?” and “Do I just give them a schedule?” so I wanted to address the most common ones I hear.

Whether it’s with a family member, a daycare class with multiple children, a homebased daycare with different age ranges or with a nanny, ensuring your child’s caregivers provide the same consistency that you give at home will keep your little one sleeping well while you’re away.  Besides, you shouldn’t lose all of the great work you’ve done with your child’s sleep as soon as they leave your arms!

Sleep begets sleep… crappy naps = crappy night sleep, plain and simple. If your child gets good naps during the day, then they’ll sleep better at night.

Let me know if this has ever happened to you…you leave your baby or toddler in the care of someone else while you’re at work, that you absolutely trust, but you spend at least some of your day worrying that your little one is taking good nap(s). Sound familiar?

So what’s the best way to start the conversation about your child’s naps with your daycare provider?

Read on to check out my favorite tips for creating a great sleep relationship with your daycare provider.
 
Tip #1: What is your provider’s policy on naps?
Do all of the children in the class nap at the same time or do the provider(s) put them to bed when they’re tired?  If your provider has a set nap time for all children, such as 12:30pm for children over 12 months of age, then try to stick with the same schedule at home. If your child sleeps well at daycare but not at home, stick with the same naptime schedule and allow your child some quiet time to rest and play quietly with a stuffed animal or book.
If your child is under 12 months of age, talk with your provider about your baby’s current schedule to make sure your baby isn’t awake too long in between naps, naps are evenly spaced throughout the day and is being put to sleep in a similar fashion like you’re doing at home.  Talk with your provider about your nap schedule at home and ask them to put baby down around the same time.

If your provider has a differing opinion about your baby’s nap schedule, see how you can come to a compromise. When all else fails, call me and I’ll mediate!

Tip #2: Where does your child sleep?
Movies or music playing, bright rooms, other kids running around…what’s a baby to do when it’s time to get to sleep?
Take a look at the area where your child will sleep. If baby is under 12 months of age, they should certainly be sleeping in a crib or pack ‘n play, never in a swing, car seat or bouncy seat.  Ask them to put your child to sleep in the darkest part of the room as possible.  If your baby uses a sleep sack or other wearable blanket, have a second just for daycare. Talk with your provider to find out the process they use to put children down for a nap and see how close you can get it to your way of doing things.  And if your child isn’t used to being held and rocked to sleep, suggest that your provider doesn’t either.
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Tip #3: Keep track of naps
When you pick up your child at the end of the day, ask your about how the day went…how were naps, how long did they last and when did they occur?  Bonus points if your provider provides emails or text messages with a log of this information! If your child’s nap was a shorter than normal or skipped a nap, consider putting them to bed a little early (about 30 minutes) that night to catch up on some much needed sleep.
 
Not sure if your baby has the right nap schedule? Send me a note at christine@sleepsolutionsbychristine and we’ll schedule a time to chat through it and find the right nap schedule for your baby or child.