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When Connie’s parents contacted me as a Child Sleep Consultant in Ireland , they were at their wit's end. Their little girl had been a great sleeper for the first 20 months of her life, but things had recently taken a challenging turn. Adding to their stress, they were expecting their second child, making the sleepless nights even harder to handle. They were exhausted and looking for support to get their family back on track.

The Situation: 

Connie had started struggling to settle down at night, waking up multiple times, and beginning her mornings far too early. She relied heavily on her parents to fall asleep at bedtime and needed them again during night wakings, as she hadn’t yet developed the ability to self-soothe.

Key Sleep Issues Identified:

Short Naps
While Connie was down to one nap a day, her naps were shorter than ideal, often leaving her overtired by bedtime. At her age, we wanted her naps to be closer to two hours to ensure she was getting enough daytime rest.

Late and Lengthy Bedtime
Connie's bedtime was slightly too late, especially considering she was waking from her nap before 2 PM. For a 2-year-old, most toddlers can only manage about 4-5 hours of awake time before becoming overtired.

Sleep Associations
Connie depended on her parents' presence to fall asleep at night. As a result, when she woke during the night, she couldn’t settle herself back to sleep without their help.

The Plan to Improve Connie’s  Sleep:

Connie’s parents enrolled in my 2-Week Sleep Support Package, where we focused on sleep training strategies tailored to a 2-year-old’s needs. The goal was to create a healthy and consistent sleep routine to improve both her naps and nighttime sleep.

1. Nap Schedule: We adjusted Connie’s nap schedule to align with her natural sleep patterns. At 2 years old, toddlers typically need around 2 hours of daytime sleep, with optimal nap times falling between 12 PM and 1 PM.
2. Early Bedtime and Consistent Routine: We shifted Connie’s bedtime earlier to help her catch up on lost sleep and avoid overtiredness. We established a calming and predictable bedtime routine lasting 20-30 minutes. To prevent stalling and negotiating—something toddlers excel at—we ensured all her needs were met before she got into her cot. Choices were offered within limits to give her a sense of control while maintaining firm and consistent boundaries.
3. Provide Comfort and Reassurance: As separation anxiety can peak at this age, we added a little extra time at bedtime to provide Connie with comfort and reassurance.
4. Teaching Independent Sleep Skills: We implemented gentle sleep training methods to help Connie learn to fall asleep independently at bedtime and during night wakings. This involved teaching her how to self-soothe without relying on her parents' presence.

The Outcome:

Within two weeks of implementing these sleep strategies and consistent sleep training, Connie was settling down easily at night, soothing herself back to sleep during the night, and consistently sleeping 11-12 hours overnight. While her naps at home were improving—especially on weekends—she started resisting naps at crèche, which can be a common challenge for toddlers adjusting to new environments. I advised her parents to continue offering naps daily and, once she settled back into her routine, gradually shift her nap to 1 PM, aiming for 2-hour naps. Maintaining this routine will support her sleep needs until she’s around 3.5 to 4 years old.

This family chose my 2-Week Sleep Support Package after our initial call because it was the best fit for their needs.

If you’re struggling with your toddler’s sleep and can relate to Connie’s story, I’d love to help. Book a free 15-minute sleep assessment call with me, and we’ll discuss how I can support you and your little one in achieving better sleep.

Popular Articles 

How to Teach Your Baby To Self Soothe

The Impact Of Sleep on Children and Parents” Why Good Sleep Habits Matter 

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies 

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a beautiful, life-changing experience, but it also comes with sleepless nights and the exhaustion that many parents face. If you're looking for thoughtful newborn gift ideas that truly make a difference for new parents, consider a gift that supports both baby and mum in finding better rest. The Newborn Sleep Gift Bundle by CulaBaby is designed precisely for this purpose—offering practical, luxurious, and supportive solutions that ensure a smoother transition into parenthood.

What's Inside the CulaBaby Newborn Sleep Gift Bundle?

1. Strong Start – Newborn Sleep Shaping Consultation Perfect for babies aged 0-3 months and expectant parents, this one-hour video consultation lays the foundation for healthy sleep habits. While newborns under four months haven't yet developed their full biological sleep rhythms, this consultation helps guide parents on ensuring their baby remains well-rested during these early weeks.

During the consultation, parents receive personalised advice tailored to their baby’s needs, covering key topics such as:

• Understanding newborn sleep patterns and cycles
• Recognising and responding to sleepy cues
• Creating a sleep-friendly environment
• Managing sleep associations and overcoming common challenges

This early guidance empowers parents with the tools needed to promote healthy sleep habits as their child grows.

2. CulaBaby Sleep Shade For parents on the go, the CulaBaby Sleep Shade is an invaluable tool. Designed for use with prams, car seats, and pushchairs, this shade creates a calm, dark, and safe sleeping environment for newborns, blocking out distractions, light, and even germs. It helps babies nap more peacefully while traveling or running errands—perfect for busy parents who need their little one to sleep soundly outside the home.

3. Silk Scrunchies for New Mums Postpartum hair changes can be a challenge, but CulaBaby’s luxurious silk scrunchies are here to help. These scrunchies glide effortlessly through hair, minimising friction and preventing breakage and frizz. Silk’s natural properties help retain moisture, keeping hair hydrated and healthy—a wonderful, practical gift for new mums during those delicate postpartum months.

Why Parents Will Love This Bundle

The Newborn Sleep Gift Bundle is an ideal gift for new or expectant parents, combining expert guidance, practical tools, and touches of luxury to support both baby and mum. With this bundle, parents can feel more confident, rested, and prepared as they navigate the first few months of their baby’s life.

Key Benefits for Parents:

• Establishing a healthy sleep foundation for their baby
• Aiding on-the-go naps with the sleep shade
• Postpartum hair care for mums with silk scrunchies
• Creating a soothing sleep environment and routine for the whole family

Additional Sleep Support

For parents seeking ongoing help with sleep challenges, CulaBaby also offers a 2-Week Full Sleep Support Package that provides continuous support tailored to your baby's sleep needs.

Give the Gift of Restful Sleep

If you're searching for a newborn gift that truly stands out and supports the well-being of both baby and parents, the CulaBaby Newborn Sleep Gift Bundle is a perfect choice. It’s more than just a gift—it’s the start of better, more restful nights for the whole family.

When George’s parents came to me as an Infant and Child Sleep Consultant in Ireland, 10-month-old George was going through a challenging sleep regression that impacted the whole family. 

The Situation: 

After reviewing the intake form and conducting a consultation call, I discovered that George struggled with short naps, needed parental presence to fall asleep, and woke multiple times at night. The entire household was feeling sleep-deprived, affecting their overall well-being.

Key Sleep Issues Identified:

• Early Wake-Ups: George was consistently waking up around 5 AM, which trained his body to recognise this as morning, making it difficult for him to settle back down and turning him into an early riser.
• Nap Schedule: His morning nap was too late, pushing the rest of his naps out of sync and preventing deep, restorative sleep.
• Short Naps: George struggled to transition through sleep cycles, resulting in brief, low-quality naps.
• Late Bedtime: An overly late bedtime left George overtired, worsening his night wakings.
• Parental Soothing: George relied on parental presence to fall asleep and during night wake-ups, making it hard for him to self-soothe and sleep independently.
• Soother Dependence: His reliance on the soother meant he frequently woke up needing help to settle back to sleep.

The Plan to Improve George’s Sleep:

They enrolled in a 2-week support package, where we focused on implementing effective sleep training strategies to establish a healthy sleep routine for 10-month-old George and improve his nighttime sleep.

1. Adjusting George’s Sleep Schedule:
• Consistent Morning Wake-Up Time: We set a regular wake-up between 6 and 7 AM to regulate George’s body clock.
• Age-Appropriate Nap Schedule: We created a nap routine that matched his natural sleep patterns, ensuring adequate rest during the day to prevent over-tiredness.
• Earlier Bedtime: We aimed for an earlier bedtime with a calming 30-minute routine to help him fall into deep, restorative night sleep.
2. Promoting Independent Sleep:
• Self-Soothing Techniques: We taught George to fall asleep independently by placing him in his cot while drowsy but awake. This helped him learn how to soothe himself back to sleep during night wakings.
• Managing Soother Use: The soother was used only for naps and bedtime, without re-plugging overnight. Extra soothers were placed in his cot to encourage George to find and use them on his own.

The Outcome:

Within two weeks of implementing these sleep strategies and consistent sleep training, George’s sleep transformed. He now settles easily at bedtime and sleeps 11-12 hours through the night. His naps have also improved, giving him the quality rest he needs during the day. The family has found a new sense of balance, no longer feeling sleep-deprived and enjoying peaceful nights with their 10-month-old who sleeps soundly.

After our initial call, this family chose my 2-week support package, as we felt it best suited their needs.

If you can relate to their story and are facing challenges with your little one’s sleep, consider booking a free 15-minute sleep assessment call to see how I can support you.

Popular Articles 

• I'm scared to Sleep Train. Will it damage my child? Do I need to leave them Cry it Out? 
• Is your Baby Taking Short Naps or won’t sleep in Creche or Daycare
• Family Case Study : 6 month old feeding to sleep
• Breaking the bottle to feed habit

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies 

When Ailbhe’s parents reached out to me as a Child Sleep Consultant in Ireland, they described experiencing what they believed to be a four-month sleep regression.

Their little girl was taking multiple contact naps throughout the day, but there was no consistent schedule, and these naps tended to be quite short. Ailbhe was going to bed very late at night, often falling asleep in her dad's arms before being transferred to her cot. She was also waking up multiple times during the night and ending up in their bed. As first-time parents, they were feeling utterly exhausted and overwhelmed. Their goal was to gently teach Ailbhe to self-soothe and implement sleep training to help her wake less frequently during the night.

The Situation: 

After reviewing the intake form and conducting a consultation call, I identified several challenges Ailbhe’s family was facing. Ailbhe didn’t have a consistent nap schedule, which is extremely common at this age. While they referred to it as the four-month sleep regression, it’s important to note that sleep disruptions are typical during this developmental stage.Up until now, a baby’s circadian rhythm hasn’t fully developed, making it difficult for them to establish a schedule. Sleep cycle structures begin to form after four months, allowing for the creation of a more consistent routine.Ailbhe was falling asleep on her mum or dad for every nap and was often rocked to sleep at bedtime, ultimately ending up in their bed. Additionally, she relied heavily on her soother, which contributed to her sleep challenges.

The Plan: 

They signed up for a 2 week support package and over the course of the two weeks, we focused on implementing effective sleep training strategies to help Ailbhe establish a healthy 4 month old sleep routine suitable for her age. Our goals included setting a proper 4 month old sleep schedule, creating an early bedtime and soothing routine, phasing out her soother or dummy usage, teaching her to self-soothe, and establishing healthy sleep habits.

Establish an Age-Appropriate Schedule for a 4-Month-Old

We set a consistent morning wake-up time to regulate Ailbhe’s body clock and support a suitable 4 month old nap schedule. This consistency would prevent overtiredness and improve her nighttime sleep.

Set a Proper Nap Schedule

We created a nap schedule aligned with Ailbhe's natural sleep rhythms, ensuring she took 3 naps a day totalling around 3-4 hours of daytime sleep. This approach would help enhance her nighttime sleep quality and duration.

Example Nap Schedule for a 4-Month-Old: (Always watching out for sleep cues) 

• Morning Nap: 8:30 / 9pm (1.5 hours) 
• Afternoon Nap: 12pm/ 1pm (1.5 hours)
• Late Afternoon Nap: 3:30/ 4pm (30 - 45 minutes minutes)

Early Bedtime and Routine

We established a bedtime of no later than 6:30/7:00 PM, paired with a consistent bedtime routine. An earlier bedtime would allow Ailbhe to start her night with deep, restorative sleep, helping to reduce night wakings.

Encourage Self-Soothing

• Self-Soothe: We taught Ailbhe to fall asleep independently at naptime and bedtime, encouraging self-soothing techniques to help her settle back to sleep during night wakings without relying on her parents.
• Soother or Dummy Use: We gradually phased out the soother/dummy, either by removing it altogether or providing it only at bedtime, without re-plugging it during the night.

The approach was tailored to ensure both parents felt comfortable with the sleep training method while being suitable for Ailbhe’s needs.

The Outcome:

Ailbhe is now on an age appropriate schedule, taking solid lengthy naps in her own cot, settling herself to sleep at bedtime and getting a good 11-12 hours sleep overnight. 

"Before we reached out to Liadhàn we were living an exhausting life. We were having 30 minute contact naps 5-6 times a day and our little girl was constantly exhausted. She would only fall asleep for bedtime in our arms and would wake up multiple times during the night and eventually end up in our bed.

I was convinced sleep training would never work for us but Liadhán assured us it would. It only took 2 days to get onto an appropriate sleep schedule with Ailbhe taking long day time naps in her cot. At night she was able to settle herself to sleep at an earlier bedtime and sleep through the night.

It has completely changed our lives and Ailbhe is a much happier well rested baby"

This case study highlights the importance of an age-appropriate baby sleep schedule and the power of consistent bedtime routines in helping babies develop healthy sleep habits. It also emphasizes the benefits of teaching self-soothing techniques, which are crucial for infant and baby sleep

By implementing these strategies, parents can better support their child's sleep needs and enhance overall family well-being

If  you can relate to this story and are  struggling with your little one’s sleep, why not book a free 15-minute sleep assessment call with me to see how I can help?

Popular Articles 

• Family Case Study : 6 month old feeding to sleep 
• Before & After: A Sleep Transformation Story You Need to Hear 
• Regression? No, They’re Progressions. How Developmental Milestones Can Affect Sleep.

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies 

Worried about the clocks going back? Are kids waking up an hour earlier? Don't stress!

Daylight Saving Time is back! On Sunday, October 27th, 2024, the clocks will go back by one hour in Ireland. For most kids, if they’re well-rested and adaptable, they won’t be stuck with an early wake-up time forever. Just like when you travel and adjust to a new time zone, they’ll adapt to this shift too! After a couple of days, their bodies will catch up.

However, for more sensitive children, this time change can be trickier. It often leads to earlier wake-ups, contributing to overtiredness and frustration for parents.

Here’s how to help your child adjust smoothly:

Gradual Adjustment:
In the week leading up to the clock change, gradually shift everything. Give yourself about four days to adjust. Start on Wednesday by pushing everything back by 15 minutes, including mealtimes. For example, if bedtime is usually at 6:30 PM, aim for 6:45 PM on Wednesday, then 7:00 PM on Thursday, and continue until you reach 7:30 PM by the time the clocks change. This gentle shift helps their body clock adjust smoothly.

Consistent Routine:

• Bedtime: Stick to a consistent bedtime routine. This signals to your child that it’s time to wind down for sleep, creating a sense of security.
• Mornings: Keep mornings dark until it’s time to wake up. Once they’re up, let in the light to stimulate their brains and signal that it’s time to start the day. If your child wakes at 6 AM, resist the urge to get them up early; keep them in bed until then.

Manage Light Levels:
As evenings get darker, everyone will rely more on artificial light. Be mindful of how bright your home is. Keep lighting lower in the evenings to avoid overstimulation. For younger babies who can’t stay awake, using brighter light during the day can help them stay alert, but aim for a calm atmosphere in the evening.

Limit Screen Time:
Reduce screen exposure before bedtime, as blue light can interfere with melatonin production and make it harder for children to settle down.

Monitor Sleep Cues:
Pay attention to your child's sleep cues and put them to bed when they show signs of tiredness, rather than sticking rigidly to the clock.

After the Time Change:

If your child typically goes to bed at 7 PM but insists on an earlier bedtime, gradually push it back to match the new time by adjusting slowly over four days.

Adjusting Over Time:

Remember, the time change itself isn't the issue; it’s how you manage those early wake-ups. If your child is still waking early after four weeks, review their bedtime routine to ensure it’s age-appropriate.

As challenging as it can be when the clocks go back, remember that this is an opportunity for an extra hour of sleep! With a little preparation and consistency, you can help your little ones adjust smoothly. 🌟

If you have been struggling with your little one’s sleep for a while now, why not book a free 15-minute sleep assessment call with me, a child sleep consultant, to see how I can help? As a paediatric sleep consultant and baby sleep consultant, I’m here to support you in navigating these changes for your family.

Popular Articles 

• I'm scared to Sleep Train. Will it damage my child? Do I need to leave them Cry it Out? 
• Before & After: A Sleep Transformation Story You Need to Hear 
• Regression? No, They’re Progressions. How Developmental Milestones Can Affect Sleep.

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies 

When Conn’s parents contacted me as a Child Sleep Consultant in Ireland, they were struggling with their baby's sleep. The only way Conn would fall asleep was by being fed at nap time, bedtime, and overnight. He was waking up multiple times during the night and relied on his parents' presence to settle down, making it difficult for him to develop independent sleep skills. Being their third child, life was understandably busy, and they were exhausted.Together, we worked on effective strategies to help Conn transition away from feeding to sleep and establish healthy sleep habits.

The Situation: After reviewing the intake form and conducting a consultation call, I discovered that Conn was facing multiple sleep-related issues beyond the feeding-to-sleep habit. His naps were shorter than ideal, often due to over-tiredness and inconsistent wake-ups. Bedtime was too late, and his dependence on being fed to sleep made it difficult for him to self-soothe, resulting in frequent night wakings and being fed. Additionally, Conn had become accustomed to needing parental presence to fall asleep, hindering his ability to develop independent sleep skills.

The Plan: As a result, we focused on implementing effective sleep training strategies to help Conn establish a healthy baby sleep schedule, fostering better sleep habits and improving his overall well-being

1. Established an Age-Appropriate  Baby Sleep Schedule: We set a consistent wake-up time between 6 AM and 7 AM to regulate Conn’s body clock. A nap schedule aligned with his natural sleepy times was created, focusing on sleep cues rather than strict wake windows.
2. Implemented a Consistent Bedtime Routine: We aimed for a bedtime by 7 PM, incorporating a calming 30-minute routine. This helped Conn prepare for sleep and improve the quality of his rest.
3. Encourage Independent Sleep and Self Soothing: We taught Conn to fall asleep on his own without relying on feeding or parental presence, introducing self-soothing techniques to support this transition.
4. Manage Feeding Practices: We monitored Conn’s daytime meals to ensure he was adequately fed, establishing a clear distinction between comfort feeds and real hunger. As he was only 6 months we limited feeds to once per night as babies of this age can typically go through the night without needing to be fed .The last feed before bedtime was scheduled to occur away from the bedroom to stop the feed to sleep association. 

The Outcome: Through these adjustments, Conn is now on an age-appropriate sleep schedule, and his parents are more in tune with his sleep cues. He takes longer naps, typically two or three each day, and settles down more easily at nap times. Conn has begun to soothe himself back to sleep when he wakes, successfully breaking the cycle of needing to be fed to sleep. He has gone from feeding multiple times overnight to just one feed with the goal of eliminating this feed when mum is ready to do this. 

This case study highlights the importance of an age-appropriate sleep schedule and the power of consistent bedtime routines in helping babies develop healthy sleep habits. It also emphasizes the benefits of teaching self-soothing techniques, which are crucial for infants and toddlers. Additionally, it addresses the significance of differentiating between real hunger and comfort feeds, while utilizing effective soothing methods to promote independent sleep skills. By implementing these strategies, parents can better support their child's sleep needs and enhance overall family well-being

If you’re struggling with your little one’s sleep, why not book a free 15-minute sleep discovery call with me to see how I can help?

Popular Articles 

• I'm scared to Sleep Train. Will it damage my child? Do I need to leave them Cry it Out? 
• Before & After: A Sleep Transformation Story You Need to Hear 
• Regression? No, They’re Progressions. How Developmental Milestones Can Affect Sleep.

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies 

As a child sleep consultant in Ireland and mother of three, I understand how challenging it can be when your little one is taking short naps at creche or daycare. Believe me I have been there both personally and professionally. I was inspired to write this guide as some of the families I'm working with at the moment  are facing this issue, and it’s often coupled with nighttime wakings. Before starting at creche or daycare , their babies were napping for over an hour, so these shorter naps can be quite disheartening.

Since you might not have direct control over naps time at creche or daycare , here are some tips to help your baby sleep and take longer naps:

Advise on Your Baby’s Natural Sleepy Times: Babies have natural sleepy times that align with their body clock and circadian rhythms. Sharing these natural sleep patterns with your baby’s caregiver can help them recognise the right moments for naps, which can lead to better, more restorative sleep.

Discuss Wakefulness Periods: While I’m not a fan of rigid wake windows, understanding how long your baby can stay awake before needing a nap is important. If you know your child can only manage about 2 hours between naps, let the caregiver know. This can help prevent overtiredness and support better napping habits.

Encourage Consistent Sleep Schedules" Try to maintain a consistent nap schedule at home and suggest that creche  or daycare  aligns with these times as much as possible. Consistency helps regulate your baby’s internal clock and makes transitions smoother.

Provide a Familiar Sleep Item: If permitted, send a familiar sleep item, like a lovey or sleep sack, with your baby. This can offer comfort and a sense of familiarity during naptime.

Early Bedtime: An early bedtime can be incredibly effective in managing sleep debt from shorter naps at creche. Deep sleep occurs more readily in the early part of the night, which can help reduce night wakings. If your baby has had short naps, consider an earlier bedtime to help them catch up on rest.

Ensure The Right Amount of Overnight Sleep: Make sure your baby is getting enough sleep overnight. A well-rested child is more likely to have longer, more restorative naps during the day, even in a less controlled environment.

Maintain a Consistent Nap Schedule at Home: Although your baby may not nap as long at creche  or daycare , sticking to a consistent nap schedule at home is crucial. Two days of quality naps over the weekend can help your baby recover from any sleep lost during the week.

Optimise the Home Sleep Environment: At home, create a conducive sleep environment—dark, quiet, and comfortable. A consistent sleep environment helps support better sleep, even if creche naps are shorter.

Give Your Baby Time and Space: In many creches or daycare , if a baby wakes up, they might be taken out of the room to avoid disturbing others. If possible, ask the caregiver to give your baby a few extra minutes. Sometimes, with a little time and space, your baby may fall back asleep.

Be Prepared for Some Disruption: Changes can cause temporary disruptions in sleep patterns, but if your baby has been a good sleeper before, this phase should pass relatively quickly.

Naps at creche  or daycare  can be frustrating, but with these tips you can help your baby make the most of their nap time even when you have less control over their environment.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with your baby's sleep challenges or toddler sleep issues, why not book a free 15-minute sleep discovery call? We can discuss your current sleep problems, such as night wakings, refusing naps, or establishing a bedtime routine, and how I can help you find the solutions you need for better sleep in your little one.

Popular Articles 

• I'm scared to Sleep Train. Will it damage my child? Do I need to leave them Cry it Out? 
• Before & After: A Sleep Transformation Story You Need to Hear 
• Regression? No, They’re Progressions. How Developmental Milestones Can Affect Sleep.

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies 

When Carters parents reached out to me as a Child Sleep Consultant in Ireland , their little boy had never slept through the night. He was taking short naps, struggling to settle at bedtime, and waking up frequently. Both parents had demanding work schedules—Dad worked nights and Mum had long days—so sleep was crucial for everyone’s well-being and Carter’s growth.

The Situation:After I analyzed the intake form and did our one-hour sleep consultation call, we discovered that Carter’s nap and bedtime routine were causing several issues. His nap schedule didn’t fit his age, causing him to miss those crucial “sleepy windows” that are key for restful sleep. This led to short and inconsistent naps, often taken in different places like the buggy or cot. His bedtime was also quite late, and given his short naps and frequent night wakings, he needed an earlier bedtime to help him catch up on rest. Carter had also become reliant on the bottle, especially in the early morning hours, creating a negative sleep association where feeding was essential for getting back to sleep. Additionally, he depended on rocking, patting, and the soother to fall asleep.

The Plan: To tackle these issues, we made the following changes:

• Establish a Consistent and Age-Appropriate Sleep Schedule: We set a consistent wake-up time between 6 and 7 am to align Carter’s nap schedule with his natural sleep rhythms. We created a fixed place for naps and established a routine suited to his age and sleep patterns. An earlier bedtime was set, along with a 30-minute bedtime routine. We made sure Carter’s last feed was 45 minutes before bedtime and outside his bedroom to avoid linking the bottle with sleep.
• Help Carter Fall Asleep Independently and Self Soothe: We focused on teaching Carter self-soothing techniques to help him fall asleep on his own. Since he wasn’t too reliant on the soother, I suggested phasing it out completely or limiting its use to bedtime only.
• Establish Real Feeds vs. Comfort Feeds and Remove Bottle Association: We eliminated bedtime feeding by providing the last feed 45 minutes before bed and away from the bedroom to break the comfort feeding habit. The first feed of the day was given after 6 am and also away from the bedroom to support a healthy sleep routine.

The Outcome: After just two weeks, Carter was able to self-soothe and settle himself to sleep at both naptime and bedtime. He transitioned to long, restful naps and was consistently getting 11-12 hours of sleep each night. This improvement in Carter’s sleep had a remarkable impact on his overall well-being. The consistent sleep schedule and full nights of sleep we established made a significant difference for the entire family. Carter is now happier and more alert during the day, and his parents are finally getting the rest they need to manage their demanding work schedules. With these new healthy sleep habits, Carter is on track for optimal growth and development.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with your baby's sleep challenges or toddler sleep issues, why not book a free 15-minute sleep assessment call? We can discuss your current sleep problems, such as night wakings, feeding to sleep, or establishing a bedtime routine, and how I can help you find the solutions you need for better sleep in your little one 

Popular Articles 

How to Teach Your Baby To Self Soothe

The Impact Of Sleep on Children and Parents” Why Good Sleep Habits Matter 

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies 

As a child sleep consultant and a mum of three, I completely understand how frustrating and exhausting it can be when your baby takes short naps. If you’re struggling with nap durations that seem all too brief, know that you’re not alone. There are several reasons why short naps happen, and understanding these can help you find effective solutions to extend those precious nap times, ensuring your little one gets the restorative sleep they need.

Why Short Naps Happen

1. Developmental Phases: Babies go through various developmental stages that can disrupt their sleep patterns. Growth spurts, cognitive leaps, and milestones like learning to crawl or walk can make their sleep more fragmented. These phases are temporary but can certainly impact nap lengths.

2. Overstimulation or Understimulation: The level of stimulation before nap time can affect how long your baby sleeps. If your little one is overstimulated, they might struggle to settle down. Conversely, if they haven’t been active enough during their wake periods, they might find it hard to drift into a deep, restful sleep.

3. Sleep Environment: The environment where your baby naps plays a crucial role in nap duration. Factors like too much light, noise, or inconsistent sleep cues can prevent longer naps. Creating a conducive sleep environment is key to extending nap times.

4. Incomplete Sleep Cycles: Babies have shorter sleep cycles compared to adults. If they wake up at the end of a sleep cycle—say, after just 30 minutes—they might struggle to transition into the next cycle, leading to fragmented naps.

Solutions to Extend Naps

1. Watch for Sleep Cues 👀: Pay attention to your baby’s sleepy signals, such as yawning, rubbing their eyes, or becoming fussy. Putting your baby down for a nap at the first sign of tiredness helps prevent overtiredness, which makes falling and staying asleep much harder.

2. Create a Conducive Sleep Environment 🌑: Ensure that the nap environment is dark, quiet, and cool. Use white noise to mask disruptive sounds and blackout curtains to simulate nighttime conditions. A calm and consistent atmosphere promotes longer, more restful naps.

3. Establish Consistent Routines 🔄: Consistency is crucial for longer naps. Develop a predictable nap routine that might include a short lullaby, a darkened room, and some gentle rocking or cuddling before laying your baby down. This helps signal that it’s time for sleep and reinforces their nap routine.

4. Allow Time to Settle ⏳: If your baby wakes after a short nap, give them a few moments to see if they can fall back to sleep on their own. Avoid rushing in immediately, as giving them a bit of space might help them settle back into sleep without your intervention.

5. Consistent Sleep/Wake Times 🕒: Maintaining a regular schedule helps regulate your baby’s internal clock. Keeping consistent sleep and wake times can improve the length and quality of naps, making it easier for your baby to develop a stable sleep pattern.

If you’ve been dealing with short naps for a while now, there might be additional factors at play. Why not book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to see how I can help? Together, we can identify any underlying issues and find solutions tailored to your baby’s needs. 🌟👶

By understanding the reasons behind short naps and applying these strategies, you can help your baby get the restorative sleep they need during the day. Consistent, mindful adjustments can make a significant difference in nap quality and overall sleep patterns.

Popular Articles 

• I'm scared to Sleep Train. Will it damage my child? Do I need to leave them Cry it Out? 
• Before & After: A Sleep Transformation Story You Need to Hear 
• Regression? No, They’re Progressions. How Developmental Milestones Can Affect Sleep.

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies

As a Child Sleep Consultant, I often hear from parents stuck in the cycle of giving their baby a bottle to fall asleep, even when they know their baby doesn’t need it. It’s a common concern—babies wake up during the night, and the only thing that seems to soothe them is a bottle. However, this can create a tricky habit that’s hard to break.

By around 6 to 8 months of age, most babies can sleep through the night without needing to be fed. Their nutritional needs are typically met during the day, and any nighttime feeding is likely more about comfort than hunger. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to check with your GP.

When a baby relies on a bottle (or breastfeeding) to fall back asleep, it creates a negative sleep association. They begin to connect sleep with feeding, making it difficult for them to return to sleep without it. This association can lead to more frequent nighttime wakings, which only perpetuates the cycle.

When working with families, I help distinguish between real and comfort feeds. We focus on ensuring your baby is getting enough nutrition during the day, which allows us to gradually reduce or eliminate nighttime feeds. Although many parents fear this process will be challenging, they often find that as their baby’s sleep improves—both during the day and at night—the need for those nighttime feeds diminishes.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your baby’s sleep challenges and are ready to break the bottle-to-sleep habit, why not book a free 15-minute Sleep Discovery Call with me? Together, we can create a plan to help your baby (and you!) sleep better through the night.

Popular Articles 

• I'm scared to Sleep Train. Will it damage my child? Do I need to leave them Cry it Out? 
• Before & After: A Sleep Transformation Story You Need to Hear 
• Regression? No, They’re Progressions. How Developmental Milestones Can Affect Sleep.

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies 

As a Child Sleep Consultant, I often hear parents mention wake windows as a key part of their baby’s sleep routine. While wake windows can be a helpful guide, it’s essential to remember that every child is different. What works for one baby may not work for another.

Strictly adhering to wake windows can sometimes cause more harm than good. It can lead to missing your baby’s optimal sleep window, resulting in overtiredness. An overtired baby struggles more with falling and staying asleep, leading to frequent night wakings and disrupted sleep patterns.

Instead of focusing solely on wake windows, I encourage parents to tune into their baby’s natural sleep rhythms. Look for sleepy cues—like yawning, rubbing eyes, or slowing down—and put your baby to sleep when they show signs of tiredness. This approach aligns better with their natural rhythms and ensures they get the deep, restorative sleep they need.

The key takeaway? Flexibility and responsiveness to your baby’s needs are crucial. Don’t stick rigidly to a one-size-fits-all schedule based on wake windows alone. By supporting your baby’s natural sleep patterns, you can reduce the likelihood of sleep challenges.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and need guidance on helping your baby sleep better, why not book a free 15-minute Sleep Discovery Call with me? Let’s work together to create a sleep plan that suits your baby’s unique needs. 💖😴

Popular Articles 

How to Teach Your Baby To Self Soothe

The Impact Of Sleep on Children and Parents” Why Good Sleep Habits Matter 

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies 

When Meabh’s parents reached out, they were struggling with their 7.5-month-old daughter’s sleep. Despite their efforts to encourage self-soothing, Meabh relied heavily on their assistance to fall back asleep, which reinforced her dependency.

The Situation: Meabh's sleep schedule wasn’t ideal for her age. She woke up too early, often due to over-tiredness at bedtime and insufficient naps. Her nap schedule was inconsistent, with wakeful periods between naps being too long. This made it difficult for her to connect sleep cycles, leading to poor-quality sleep. Additionally, her naps often took place in varying environments, further affecting her ability to rest well. Though her parents were working on encouraging self-soothing, Meabh still relied heavily on intervention to fall back asleep, reinforcing her dependence on external help.

The Plan: To address these issues, we implemented the following strategies:

1. Age-Appropriate Schedule: We established a consistent wake-up time between 6 and 7 am and aligned her nap schedule with natural sleep rhythms. The goal was to gradually phase out the third nap and move towards an earlier bedtime, ensuring restorative sleep.
2. Consistent Napping Environment: We introduced a dedicated, quiet, and distraction-free nap space to promote predictability and better rest.
3. Encourage Independent Sleep: We developed a more consistent approach, using gentle techniques to help Meabh learn to fall asleep on her own at bedtime, naptime, and during nighttime wake-ups.

The Outcome:  With these changes, Meabh’s sleep improved significantly. She began waking up later, taking more consistent naps, and learned to self-soothe. This led to fewer nighttime awakenings and better overall sleep for both Meabh and her parents.

This case study highlights the importance of consistency and aligning naps with natural sleep periods to improve a child’s sleep quality.

If you’re struggling with your little one’s sleep, why not book a free 15-minute sleep discovery call with me to see how I can help you?

Popular Articles 

• I'm scared to Sleep Train. Will it damage my child? Do I need to leave them Cry it Out? 
• Before & After: A Sleep Transformation Story You Need to Hear 
• Regression? No, They’re Progressions. How Developmental Milestones Can Affect Sleep.

CulaBaby Products

CulaBaby Sleep Shade, CulaBaby Silk Pillowcase, CulaBaby Silk Scrunchies