It has recently become clear that I need to write this blog. As a parent who has gone through the sleep training process with numerous families, I have seen a few trends come up with many of my clients.

Parents are not always on the same page when it comes to goals and the reason for wanting to sleep training their baby or child:
Action - Every consult, I always ask the goal of each parent. In most instances, each parent has a slightly different idea of what sleep training is and what they would like to achieve.
Reason - A Sleep Consultation helps ensure you are on the same page.
Developing a family-centered sleep plan is not always the easiest decision for parents.
Action- I use the consult to educate parents on the different options for the process. Methods include anything from Pick up/Put down (gentle) to Goodnight /Good morning (extinction) and everything thing in the middle. This helps parents to make an educated and informed of which method they are comfortable using.
Reason- Finding the right method is key to being able to commit fully to the process.
Continued support through the process.
Action- All my sleep packages include support (1 or 2 weeks). My clients are not alone through this process. They all have my contact information and usually will be in contact a lot over the two weeks.
Reason - Knowing you aren’t alone and having a resource to ask for clarification, encouragement and if necessary a shoulder cry on is vitally important.
Parents are comforted in the knowledge that they have a detailed sleep plan.
Action- A family sleep plan is key to family sleep success. The plan helps keep things on track and allows each parent and caregiver to be on the same page.
Reason - Everyone has a role, and the sleep plan outlines the roles each person has. This plan also allows you to educate family, friends and additional caregivers on how they can help and what you are doing.
Almost everyone says the same thing upon completion “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
Action- This is the biggest compliment I can receive.
Reason - Parents put in the work and start sleeping better and their whole life starts to change.
Every parent I have worked with has increased confidence and strength as parents. Action- This parenting journey is not an easy one but once you get your child sleeping and in turn start sleeping yourself there is huge relief and clearer thinking.
Reason - Sleep is very important for all of us. We become better parents, partners and friends when we sleep. With sleep we gain a clear head - we have an easier time dealing with stress and changes.

If you are ready to take this journey, let’s chat. I offer free 15 minute consults. Together we can get your family more sleep. To set up your free consult you can email me at alison@cheekysleeper.com, or reach me on facebook and instagram at Cheeky_Sleeper.

Happy Sleep

Alison