When I first hired a sleep coach five years ago, I didn't even know what to expect; I just knew I needed help and there were these people calling themselves sleep coaches, so I gave it a try. I wasn’t convinced initially, especially with all the comments like, “You don’t need that, just do this or that.” Needless to say, I tried all the things family and friends recommended, and nothing was working.
Ever since leaving my corporate job in organizational psychology, I wanted to go back to talking to people, coaching, and creating human-centered solutions. Sleep coaching was perfect for me because it allowed me to coach parents and work hand-in-hand with them to help them be their best, well-rested selves.
It took a while for my mom, at least, to understand what I was about to do because sleep coaching is relatively new. So, in case you're wondering, "What the heck does a gentle sleep coach do?" and more specifically, "How do I do it?" Here it is...
I support parents on their journey to achieve better sleep by bringing healthy sleep habits into their homes.
I believe in the uniqueness of every baby, which is why flexibility and individuality are my core values.
What Does "Gentle" Mean In Gentle Sleep Coach?
The word gentle when talking about sleep coaching means being responsive and reassuring to your little one, not leaving them alone in this process. We adapt when needed and move forward at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Your baby might cry because that's their only way to communicate, but we aim to be as gentle as possible and minimize the crying.
How Do I Do It?
Identify the Family Dynamics: Help parents define what they want regarding sleep rules for their kids. What's their goal? For example, "I want to co-sleep with my baby but not nurse them to sleep."
Communicate Sleep Expectations: Explain sleep expectations for each age group and teach parents how sleep works.
Decide on a Solution: Create a sleep plan tailored to their needs. This could be a personalized plan, one of my online sleep webinars, or solutions during a one-time consultation.
Implement the Plan.
Follow Up: This might include weekly or monthly calls, staying in contact through my Facebook community, or being part of a monthly newsletter.
What We Work On Depending on Your Baby's Age Group
0 to 5 Months
This phase is all about learning about your baby. You're getting to know what they like and how you can respond. Every baby is different, and you'll realize that your baby is unique. What works for your mom friend might not work for you.
What Can You Work On?
Understanding your baby's sleep
Building a Healthy Sleep Foundation by establishing healthy sleep habits
Learning about expectations: What can your baby really do and what are they capable of?
Working on pre-sleep coaching strategies when you and your baby feel ready
6 to 18 Months
This is when it gets interesting because a lot happens. Your baby can start learning to sleep on their own. They now have the ability, but many things are going on, and some sleep associations may have been created. It’s important to be clear about your family bedtime rules. For example, do you want to transfer your baby to their own room or share a room longer? Are they ready to wean from feeding in the middle of the night? Do they like or need the pacifier? Are you ready for independent sleep? Once you decide what you want and need...
What Can You Work On?
Establishing a healthy and age-appropriate schedule
Maintaining good sleep habits
Teaching your baby to sleep on their own (also known as sleep training)
1.5 to 5 Years
I always say toddlers are my favorite; they are the most challenging little humans, especially regarding sleep. Many things you did before might stop working because your toddler is learning a lot, and the most interesting part: they are learning to talk. These words can be used to stall bedtime, and it's sweet... until it's 3 a.m. and they keep asking for a hug.
What Can You Work On?
Maintaining an age-appropriate schedule, being mindful of sleep needs
Setting bedtime rules and communicating them properly to your toddler, making sure they know what is expected
Teaching your toddler to sleep on their own if you haven’t already (also known as sleep training)
If you're interested in learning more, let’s schedule a free call! I would love to learn more about your goals and figure out how we can work together.
Comentários