Sleep Coaching FAQs
How much sleep should my baby be getting?
Some children need more or less sleep. If your little one is fussing, falling asleep anywhere anytime, waking at night, irritable, having a hard time taking naps or falling asleep at bedtime he or she may be overtired. Although it is counterintuitive, an overtired child doesn’t sleep as well during naps and nighttime as a well rested child.
Average sleep needs based on age
Newborns | 16 to 18 hours |
1-3 month-olds | 15 to 16 hours |
3-9 month-olds | 14 to 15 hours |
9-12 month-olds | 13 to 14 hours |
1-2 year-olds | 12 to 13 hours |
2-4 year-olds | 11 to 13 hours |
4-5 year-olds | 10 to 13 hours |
What’s the best age to sleep train my baby?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics; “Babies do not have regular sleep cycles until about 6 months of age. While newborns sleep about 16 to 17 hours per day, they may only sleep 1 or 2 hours at a time. As babies get older, they need less sleep. However, different babies have different sleep needs. It is normal for a 6-month-old to wake up during the night but go back to sleep after a few minutes.” I think it is wonderful for a family to bond in the early months. You can begin sleep shaping your child from newborn to 4.5 months. At around 4.5 to 9 months, after your pediatrician gives you the go ahead, you can begin sleep coaching.
What sleep training method do you use?
I use a gradual and effective approach as a certified Gentle Sleep Coach. Think of it like you are the coach for your children from the sidelines supporting them as they now learn to play the sleep game by themselves. You offer support, but don’t play the game for them so they are able to learn how to self soothe and put themselves to sleep. Every child is unique. Each has his or her own temperament to take into consideration and every family dynamic is different. I work at learning all I can about the families I work with. Once I have extensively gone through a family’s history form, I figure out the best approach for the sleep coaching plan. I offer ample support through multiple phone calls and clear communication so that you feel completely secure that your needs are being met throughout the coaching process.
What age babies do you work with?
I help families with sleep shaping babies from newborns to 4.5 months old. Sleep coaching can take place when your pediatrician gives you the go ahead anywhere between 4.5 to 9 months. I work with families that have children from newborn to 6 years of age.
How does your Sleep Program work?
See Sleep Package Page.
How long will it take to sleep train my baby?
If your baby is healthy and you are able to follow the detailed sleep coaching instructions, your baby could be sleeping in two weeks. For some families it can take more time and for some families less time.
Do you work with families out of your area?
Yes, I have worked with families from all over the world.
If I think I’d like to work with you, what are the next steps?
If you would like to talk about working together, please fill out the let’s connect page and request a complimentary call. This will give us an opportunity to discuss your sleep story, and we can determine whether I can help your family get back the gift of sleep.