Newborn sleep can feel like a mystery for new parents. You know your baby needs it, but figuring out how to get them to sleep well? That’s a whole different ballgame. Most of the time, it comes down to a lack of information about what newborns actually need and not understanding the science behind it. Let’s break it down.
Read MoreThe world of baby sleep can be a maze of conflicting advice and approaches, leaving sleep deprived parents feeling overwhelmed and uncertain how to help their babies get the best sleep possible. Two terms that often arise in discussions about baby sleep are "sleep training" and "cry it out." But are they truly synonymous? Or are there nuances that differentiate the two?
Read MoreHey, exhausted parents - are you in the thick of the newborn witching hour? If so, let's talk.
Oh that lovely nightly ritual where your sweet angel baby turns into a tiny tyrant, wailing their lungs out, leaving you feeling like you've stumbled into a sleep-deprived horror show. I’ve been there. And if you're in desperate need of some serious shut-eye, maybe it's time to call in the cavalry – a postpartum doula or sleep consultant – because let's face it, you deserve some damn sleep!
If you’re a new parent know this: the witching hour is a universal struggle. Newborns don't come with manuals, and navigating the intense evenings and sleepless days and nights can feel like you're drowning. But there's hope. With the right strategies and a bit of grit (just like Detroit does!), you can turn the witching hour into something more manageable. So, let's dive into my six essential tips to help you get through those tough hours and reclaim some peace in your home.
Read MoreBe honest, are guilty of saying “my baby hates sleep”? As I sleep coach, I hear this WEEKLY!! I read regularly in Mom FB groups and get inquiries all the time with some form of this phrase. So many parents are convinced that their baby/toddler/child hates sleep or doesn’t NEED much sleep.
I hate to be the bearer of bad (or good?!) news, but children of all ages NEED sleep and WANT to sleep… often times they just don’t know HOW to sleep well on their own.
Helping an infant or toddler learn HOW to sleep is what we do and it looks differently for each child and family we work with. This can be accomplished in a variety of different ways and in my experience there is no “one size fits all” solution, but I’m here to share some great tips with you to get you started.
Read MoreYour new baby is here! Hooray! Amidst the joy and snuggles, there are also a lot of challenges. Believe us, we’ve been there… sleepless nights, round-the-clock feedings, and the constant adjustment to a new normal can leave even the most prepared parents feeling a bit overwhelmed. That's where the support of a postpartum doula comes in, and here in Southeast Michigan, we're ready to help make your transition into parenthood as smooth as can be.
Read MoreWelcoming a new baby into your life is an incredible experience that brings immense joy and excitement. However, it's essential to remember that the postpartum period, often called the "4th trimester," is a time of adjustment and recovery for both parents and newborns. Finding a compassionate and knowledgeable postpartum doula can provide invaluable support during this transformative phase of your parenting journey. Their expertise in postpartum recovery, baby care, and newborn care specialist ensures that you have the guidance and support you need as you navigate this special time in your life.
Read MoreI don’t mess around when it comes to sleep and so when I hear these sleep myths being shared on Facebook Mom Groups or from well-meaning grandparents, I feel compelled to step in and set the record straight!
Sleeping too much during the day will negatively affect night sleep
No way, no how. NO. NO. NO. This myth is one that I hear SO frequently and it is the one that just makes me so upset.
Yes, newborns don’t have a developed circadian rhythm and can sleep more soundly during the day then at night. But once the circadian rhythm is established, consistent, well-timed naps will actually make night sleep better! If you’re keeping your baby up in the hopes that they’ll sleep better at night, all you’re doing is stressing your baby out and making them over tired, almost guaranteeing that they’ll sleep worse at night.
Read MoreWhen I tell people I’m a Pediatric Sleep Coach, I often get the response “Can you teach ME how to sleep better?”
My answer: “Yes, but you might not like what I tell you to do!”
That always gets a few laughs, mostly because it’s true and adults cognitively recognize that they don’t prioritize sleep as much as they probably should. But, I give the advice just the same because you never know what’s going to resonate with someone. It’s always possible that a simple tip surrounding sleep hygiene or nighttime routines will click and improve someone’s quality of sleep.
For clients, I tailor my guidance for each family’s own needs, routine, and lifestyle, but in general, here are the 6 most significant ways you can support restful sleep for the whole family!
Read MoreOne of my biggest pieces of advice as a sleep coach is to establish a bedtime routine early in your child’s life (or even in utero!) and to stick with it throughout their childhood. Creating a bedtime routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep it simple with a bath, maybe a little infant massage, and include 5-10 minutes of stories or sleepy songs depending on the age of your child. Picking 1-2 books for a bedtime routine with your infant is a good start.
Here are a few of our favorite bedtime stories that can enhance your family’s bedtime routine and help your little one drift off to a peaceful sleep.
Read MoreIf your due date is drawing near, you’re probably thinking about getting your hospital bag ready to go. Packing your hospital bag well in advance will ensure you don’t forget any essential items at home on the big day — like your cellphone charger! That said, it’s also easy to go overboard and pack a lot of stuff you don’t need, adding unnecessary bulk to your bag. To help you keep it simple, Detroit Dreams Tonight shares some insights. Here’s everything you need to pack — and a few things that you don’t — for a comfortable stay in the hospital.
Read MoreThe concept of exhaustion takes on a new meaning when you have a baby. New parents are often surprised at how tired they feel or comment that they were totally unprepared for how it would affect their mood and their overall lives. We’ve experienced first hand how difficult it can be to take care of yourself when your baby is waking to eat every 2-3 hours around the clock, but hopefully these tips will help you get some more shut yet until your baby’s development allows for longer stretches of sleep.
Read MoreLet's talk about baby sleep cues! As sleep coaches, this is one of the most asked questions for the newborn stage. It’s important to set the foundations of healthy sleep habits in the early months of your baby’s life before they are developmentally ready to sleep train.
Your newborn is so aware and communicates their needs to you throughout the day. Here are some signs that your little one is ready for a nap or bedtime:
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