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Why Sleep Coaching benefits a secure attachment with your child
Amidst the joy of watching your little one grow, one of the most precious gifts you can give them is the security of a strong attachment. A secure attachment forms the foundation for healthy emotional development, and surprisingly to some, sleep coaching can play a pivotal role in nurturing this beautiful bond between parent and child.
Many parents hesitate to consider sleep coaching, fearing that it might disrupt the precious bond they share with their children. The concern is understandable; the idea of letting a child cry it out or implementing new sleep routines can seem daunting. However, what parents often find after taking the leap is quite the opposite. Gentle Sleep Coaching doesn't diminish the bond—it enriches it. As sleep improves for both child and parent, the time spent together becomes more meaningful and filled with joy. With well-rested minds and bodies, parents find themselves more present, patient, and engaged during waking hours. Bedtime stories are no longer rushed through, playtime becomes more imaginative, and heartfelt conversations flow easily. The fear that sleep coaching will alter or disrupt the bonding is replaced with the realization that the quality of time spent with their children has, in fact, been enhanced, creating lasting memories and strengthening the parent-child connection.
Understanding Secure Attachment
Secure attachment is the emotional bond that forms between a child and their primary caregiver. This bond is characterized by feelings of safety, comfort, and trust. Attachment is a construct that is established through a reliable pattern of responses over time. A secure attachment results from parents keeping distress at a tolerable level. When a child feels securely attached, they are more likely to explore their world, develop healthy relationships, and regulate their emotions effectively.
Attachment is not the action of soothing. Soothing is the result of parents reading signals and trying to interpret them. Is your child wet? Are they hungry? Overtired? Overstimulated? Frustrated? In psychology, this is called mentalizing and is the backbone of attachment. When you try to interpret your child’s cries, you are translating your child’s communication. The way you respond to them helps wire their own emotional regulation system which is the beginning of emotional communication between you and your child which is the foundation of secure attachment. This does not mean that you know what to do every time your child is upset, it means you are trying.
Understanding Gentle Sleep Coaching (and it’s differences from other sleep coaching methodologies)
There are 3 methods of sleep coaching. All have different “frameworks” for how to successfully see results. Like everything else in childhood, the Gentle Sleep Coaching method (A.K.A: “the Sleep Lady Shuffle”) helps children gradually learn their sleep skills until they can independently fall asleep and successfully go back to sleep in the middle of the night.
The “Sleep Lady Shuffle” entails you offering a lot of support and help while your child learns how to down regulate, settle and soothe themselves to sleep in the crib or bed with progressively less active help from you. Remember, the ultimate goal: to transfer the work of going to sleep from you to them. You’re going to do that gradually in a way that stretches their skills by tapering off how much presence and support you offer over time.The Shuffle is a gentle, responsive sleep coaching method that includes initially sitting by your child’s crib or bed and offering physical and verbal reassurance….so shushing, saying it's okay, patting, humming and picking up to calm!
The Role of Sleep Coaching
While the primary goal of sleep coaching is to establish a restful sleep routine, the benefits extend far beyond a good night's rest.
Consistent Caregiver Response:
Sleep coaching encourages a consistent and predictable response from caregivers. By establishing a bedtime routine and responding to your child's cues in a loving and predictable manner, you are building trust and security.
Emotional Regulation:
When a child learns to self-settle and self-soothe and fall asleep independently, they develop important skills for emotional regulation. This ability to comfort themselves lays a strong foundation for handling stress and anxiety in the future.
Confidence and Independence:
A well-rested child is more confident and eager to explore their surroundings. By empowering them to sleep independently, you are fostering a sense of autonomy and independence, essential components of secure attachment.
Quality Bonding Time:
Contrary to common misconceptions, sleep coaching does not mean less bonding time with your child. Instead, it promotes quality interactions during waking hours. A well-rested child is more alert, responsive, and ready to engage in meaningful play and cuddles.
Parental Well-being:
Let's not forget the well-being of parents! Adequate sleep for both child and caregiver means more patience, energy, and emotional availability. This positive emotional state is contagious and contributes to a warm and nurturing environment for secure attachment to flourish.
Nurturing Attachment Every Step of the Way
Remember that every child is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It's essential to tailor the process to your child's temperament, needs, and developmental stage and that is exactly what I do here at Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching.
Tips for Building Attachment through Sleep Coaching:
Create a Loving Bedtime Routine: Incorporate cuddles, stories, or gentle music to create a sense of calm and security before bedtime.
Respond with Sensitivity: During sleep coaching, respond to your child's cries with love and reassurance. Knowing that you are there for them, even as they learn to self-soothe, builds trust.
Stay Consistent: Consistency is key in establishing healthy sleep habits and nurturing secure attachment. Stick to the routine and be patient as your child learns this new skill.
Celebrate Progress: Celebrate small victories along the way. Whether it's a peaceful bedtime or a longer stretch of sleep, acknowledge and praise your child's efforts.
Sleep coaching is not just about teaching your child to sleep; it's about fostering a deep, secure attachment that will guide them through life's ups and downs. By providing a loving, consistent, and responsive environment, you are laying the groundwork for a resilient, emotionally intelligent, and securely attached child.
As you embark on this journey, remember that each night of peaceful sleep is a step closer to a stronger bond between you and your little one. Embrace the process, cherish the moments, and watch as your child grows into a confident, secure, and well-rested individual.
Here's to the blissful nights and the beautiful bond of secure attachment!
New Parents Can Boost Their Mental Health for Restful Nights With These Strategies
Guest Blog by Emily Graham of Mighty Moms
Navigating the labyrinth of new parenthood presents a unique set of challenges, with the quest for restful sleep being among the most daunting. Yet, the intertwining of mental health and sleep quality cannot be overstated. For new parents, mastering the art of restful sleep while addressing mental health hurdles is essential, not only for personal well-being but also for the holistic health of the family unit. This comprehensive guide, courtesy of Blissful Baby, offers targeted strategies to transform your nightly rest into a rejuvenating escape, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to embrace the joys and challenges of parenting.
Address Work Stress
Navigating work-related stress is crucial for enhancing nighttime tranquility. A work diary serves as a powerful tool, allowing you to organize tasks, track project progress, and celebrate successes. This reflective practice not only clarifies your professional path but also diminishes the mental clutter that can inhibit sleep, promoting a sense of accomplishment and peace as you prepare for rest.
Establish a Routine
Committing to a consistent sleep schedule for both yourself and the baby sets the foundation for improved sleep quality. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including weekends, helps synchronize your body's internal clock, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and enhancing the overall sleep experience. You can also remain consistent in your routines for sleep and nap times, such as putting the baby down for rest in the same environment every time. This regularity is a cornerstone of sleep hygiene, offering a stabilizing force in the whirlwind of new parenthood.
Develop a Pre-Sleep Ritual
Creating a pre-sleep ritual signals to your body that it's time to wind down, fostering a transition from the day's hustle to nighttime serenity. This might include activities such as reading, meditating, or gentle stretching, each acting as a cue to the body and mind that the day is ending. Such rituals ease the transition into sleep, making it easier to let go of the day's stresses and slip into a peaceful slumber.
Minimize Caffeine Consumption
The impact of caffeine on sleep cannot be underestimated. Limiting intake, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, ensures that your body is primed for rest. Opting for caffeine-free alternatives, such as ginger ale, in the evening can prevent the stimulation that disrupts sleep cycles, facilitating a smoother journey to dreamland.
Limit Blue Light Exposure
The blue light from electronic devices significantly hampers sleep quality by interfering with the body's natural sleep-wake cycle. Reducing the use of smartphones, tablets, and computers before bedtime is vital for safeguarding your circadian rhythms. This adjustment promotes a more natural and rejuvenating sleep pattern, essential for the health and vitality of new parents. Moreover, engaging in screen-free activities as part of your nighttime routine can further enhance your ability to fall asleep quickly and enjoy deeper rest.
Tackle Mental Health and Sleep
The intersection of mental health challenges and sleep is a critical consideration for new parents. Acknowledging and addressing heightened stress and anxiety can significantly improve sleep quality. Exploring strategies to manage these mental health challenges–such as meditation or breathing exercises–is vital, as a calm mind is more receptive to the cues for sleep, ensuring a deeper and more restful night.
Create a Sleep-Inducing Environment
The bedroom environment plays a pivotal role in sleep quality. Ensuring that your sleeping space is quiet, dark, and cool, with a comfortable mattress, can transform your bedroom into a sanctuary of sleep. You can also utilize items such as relaxing essential oils or white noise machines to make your bedroom as calming as possible. This conducive environment supports uninterrupted rest, allowing new parents to recharge fully.
Mind Your Diet Before Bed
The connection between diet and sleep is profound. Being mindful of what you consume in the lead-up to bedtime, especially avoiding heavy meals and stimulants, can prevent sleep disturbances. Opting for light, nourishing fare supports a smoother transition to sleep, complementing the body's natural rhythms. You can also choose specific snacks that are helpful for good rest, such as tart cherries or bananas.
For new parents, the journey to achieving restful sleep while managing mental health is multifaceted, requiring attention to routine, stress management, and the physical environment. By adopting these strategies, you can enhance your sleep quality, supporting your well-being and enabling you to provide the best care for your newborn. Embracing these changes fosters resilience, ensuring you and your family thrive during this extraordinary chapter of life.
Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching offers assistance to help little ones get their sleep schedules on track. Have a question about the process and what to expect? Reach out today to learn more.
Homework Done, Sleep Won: How Sleep Coaching Changed Our 7 year old’s Life
Today, we’re addressing a concern that resonates deeply with so many families—how to navigate the complex sleep issues of school-aged children amidst the whirlwind of their lives.
Navigating the sleep needs of school-aged children presents a unique set of challenges, often intensified by the bustling rhythm of their daily lives. From the classroom to the sports field, every day brings something new. But when it comes to bedtime, many families find themselves facing familiar hurdles:
Power struggles that begin at dinnertime, setting the stage for a night of frustration.
Anxiety about bedtime that looms large, overshadowing the quality family time
Endless bedtime battles that leave parents and children feeling drained.
Navigating sleepovers. If your child requires YOU to fall asleep, this will be a SOS call at midnight when the child is awake, anxious and embarrassed and wants to come home to sleep with parents.
I hope moms are honest about their child’s sleep struggles because you never know where help is available if you actually share. As your child gets older, there's less opportunity to kind of have these conversations because it kind of feels like parents “shouldn't” even be having sleep problems with a school-aged child. I encourage you to share your experiences with others, ask for help when you are struggling, share your
In this enlightening video, we confront these challenges head-on, exploring the story of a family with a 7 year old. Sometimes with an older child parents feel like they “shouldn't” be having sleep problems and therefore they don't know where to turn for help. Thankfully, Joyce was honest with a group of moms in her daughter's class and one of the other moms had successfully solved the same issue and was happy to share my services as a trustworthy resource.
Much like yours, this family faced not only the typical hurdles of establishing healthy sleep habits, but also contended with bedtime anxiety. Through their journey, we highlight the power of communication, the value of setting appropriate boundaries, and the importance of customizing sleep strategies that respect both the child’s needs and the family’s dynamic.
This video isn’t just about overcoming sleep challenges; it’s about reimagining bedtime as an opportunity for connection and calm, even in the face of busy schedules and external demands. It’s about empowering your child with the skills they need to embrace rest, irrespective of the day’s activities or the worries on their mind.
If you’re navigating the nuanced sleep needs of a school-aged child, caught in power struggles, or balancing a calendar brimming with activities, I invite you to watch our video. Discover how, with a little patience, understanding, and the right approach, you can guide your child towards restorative sleep, laying the foundation for happier days and healthier futures. Together, we can turn the challenge of bedtime into a blissful journey for your entire family. Your adventure towards peaceful nights and vibrant mornings starts here.
Joyce wants all exhausted parents to know:
“Sleep coaching can be done in a gentle way with just a little bit of patience. Sleep training in a very sweet and loving way to help kids understand their bodies, understand what to do, and calm their nerves. Joanna is a wonderful guide and cheerleader. There is nothing wrong with asking for help.”
So remember, don't let shame keep you from asking for help. I'm so glad that this family had a friend with a helpful and reliable resource to help solve the sleep struggles once and for all.
Whether you're tucking in a toddler or negotiating bedtime with a ten-year-old, I'm here to share a heartening message: it's never too late to foster healthy sleep habits in your children.
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
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Well, hello, I'm Joanna Clark with Blissful Baby. Sleep Coaching, and I'm here with Joyce, a mom of an 8-year-old. Hi Joyce, how are you? Good. Hi, Joanna. So today we're gonna review the journey, her success story of working with an 8-year-old. So many, many families think that by the time they have an 8-year-old, that it's just the way it is that they will either like magically grow out of it and magically have beautiful sleep habits, or they feel like by the time they're eight, like I guess I just don't have a good sleeper and I guess I just got a bad lottery number, but Joyce is here to tell you something differently, right, Joyce? Absolutely.
I'd love to share our journey with Joanna. Okay. All right. So let's talk. So what did life look like with your 8-year-old daughter before you called me? So there was a lot of anxiety, a lot of frustrations, nor was waking up multiple times throughout the night. She needed us with her to sleep. She needed us with her when she woke up to get back into bed with her and get her back to sleep.
So things felt very claustrophobic, you know, we had to stay in the room and it, it, this could have taken up to three hours, sometimes a night. So there was not much time to do with my husband and even for myself even doing things around the house. So there was a lot of frustration and resentment as well. Yeah, yeah. And a lot of this kind of anxiety and frustration started around dinner, dinnertime. So Correct. It was like dinnertime started and all of a sudden it was like anxiety, power, struggle, negotiations, and then finally like lying with her, lying there, lying there, lying there until she fell asleep, only to find her waking up and traveling down to the master bedroom, wanting somebody to come back to the bed with her musical beds. Yes. You know, it was, Yeah, it, even, even dinner time was leading up to bedtime, like you said, where she would start getting anxious because she didn't wanna go to bed herself. So that was also a struggle. Right. Yeah. She, that just wasn't wanting to be alone. I mean, she was just frantic about needing someone in the room with her. Correct. At bedtime at, in the middle of the night. And it got more and more demanding. And of course, like you said, just it became kind of claustrophobic for everybody because Right. She just couldn't be satiated, you know? Right. So that's what life looked like before you called me.
So what then made you decide to ask for help? So it was, so, it was, it was really by coincidence. We have a mutual friend, NORS classmate, and we were just sharing our experiences and she highly recommended you. And we were at a point where we just had no solutions. We've tried everything we can, and so we, we decided to give you a call. Yes. And, and I'm happy. Happy we did. Exactly. And again, you know, like us moms, like we, you know, I mean, I hope us moms are honest about our struggles. Right. Because you never know where help is gonna be available to you if you actually share like,
wow, bedtime is kind of mayhem. Wow. We're up all night with her. And then that other mom is like, well, I totally get it, because that was me too. Exactly. And as your child gets older, there's less opportunity to kind of have these conversations because it kind of feels like we shouldn't even be having this problem when I'm Correct. 5-year-old, a 6-year-old, a 7-year-old, an 8-year-old, a 9-year-old, 10-year-old. But it's true, like there's a lot of parents that are still struggling with children's sleep, even in elementary school. And it is important for everyone to know it's never too late for your child to learn sleep skills. Absolutely. So I'm so glad that you, that you had a friend to talk to and that your friend had a resource for you.
Okay. So what was it like to go through the process? Like what did you love most about the, the gentle sleep coaching process with me and you guys? My dog back here. Yes. I know. I love it. That's, that's magic. He's all like, Hey, I'll be on the, I'll Be a part of it on the video.
Yes. Well, we loved having you with us as, as our kind of cheerleader, our guide, the cheerleader to our daughter and just helping us through the process, providing us with scientific information about sleep cycles, signs to be aware of with our children, of when they should be ready for beds. And we were not paying attention to any of these.
So having you with us every step of the way was a tremendous help. And even understanding a lot of these behavioral health and psychological and scientific things that could affect sleep. Right. And you guys are probably noticing mom is wearing scrubs, so she's a physician herself, right? Yeah. And so having kind of that science backed approach was really important to you.
Yeah. And I also know what you mentioned to me that you, that both you and your husband loved about the process was the teamwork element. Can you talk about that teamwork component? Yeah, absolutely. And The collaboration that, and also not only collaboration with your husband, collaboration with your daughter, that she was very much a part of this process.
Yes. So, you know, I'm, I'm a person that needs their sleep. So my husband and I, we had decided to, for him to help be the coach while I can get my rest. But, which, which was wonderful because, you know, our daughter had the structure of who's gonna be the coach and who's gonna be with her and someone reliable, somebody that's gonna be able to handle those evenings that were difficult, you know, the first couple of weeks. So, so having you guiding us and having Joe and I, my husband and I worked through the process, but really he, he, he was a great coach. Exactly. He was a great coach. And it, this is very much a team process.
This is a family system issue. When we have child who, you know, it's, it's really about getting the entire family, including the child, very much a part of the process. It becomes like a group project, really a family project. And so, you know, when I'm working with an older child, like they are absolutely part of the process.
We are having conference calls with them, right? They are, they know exactly what's happening. They have a say. They are, they get to e experience their pleasure or their displeasure. They get to experience their wins. We celebrate their wins. So it's incredibly collaborative with the child and, you know, and bridging and really creating unity Right. Between the parents and the, and the child. And one thing that, that your dad had, that dad had said that I thought was such a great, great analogy is that before starting this sleep training process, he had kind of a perception in the father figure role that he would have to kind of be like the brick wall, like the really tough guy. Like, I'm the dad, so therefore this is what we're gonna have to do. Correct. And then It turned out that he was so happy and you were happy and your daughter was happy that that is not what this process is at all. There is no brick wall. So can you talk about that part so that parents don't have this feeling that this is this rigid experience? 'cause it's not, it's, It's not. And I think, yeah, and I think every child is different and I think every approach is different. Yes. And you kind of have a recipe for every child. And so, you know, I don't think our recipe really followed maybe a lot of the, you know, other experiences that you had and, and you were kind enough to tailor it for our daughter.
And it was a very gentle approach. We, it took us maybe a little bit longer than normal, but we got to a point where we're very happy with where she's at. And it wasn't where we had to lock the door and tell her, okay, this is how it's gonna be. You're gonna deal with your feelings, you just have to stay in your room.
It was not like that at all, which was my fear initially. 'cause I don't believe in that disciplinary way. And, and it was, it was really nice that it was tailored to her personality. So she had severe anxiety like we talked about. And so we eased into a lot of the different techniques and strategies to get her to sleep on her own and, and stay in her room. Yeah, exactly. Exactly. So super collaborative and super. Yeah. You know, really, again, like it became kind of her, her like she's at the point, in fact, let's just say this. Let's talk about what life looks like now. Right. That will explain how going from where we were to what we look like now and knowing it was a collaborative process.
We'll put all of this into context. So mom, what does it look like now? Tell us how ugly. So now And beautiful. Yeah. We, we all sit down for dinner. Everybody knows after dinner is we're going to go up and we're going to get ready for bed. And so there's no, there's no crying about that. There's no anxiety or fear about bedtime.
So we're enjoying a lot of different books, a lot of different classic books with our daughter. We'll read She'll, she's gotten very comfortable figuring out how to fall asleep. And so even just last night she was like, I'm trying to get comfortable in my bed. And I said, oh, okay. This is wonderful. I'm like, you know, do what you need to do. And so now she does not come to our room and she does not wake up. She does not wake me up. Which was another struggle that I was dealing with because, you know, I need my sleep and we don't have her in our bed. And so that's, that was our goal. Our goal was so she could be well rested.
She could feel like she has energy for the day, for a full day at school. She's improving in school, she's happier. So it, you know, it's like night and day. Yeah. It's like night and day. It's night and day. It's night and day. So it was like from dinner time throughout the night, it was just chaos and power struggle and arousal.
And now it's like pleasant family dinner. Like family dinner the way you hope it can be. Where exactly you're and laughing, easy bedtime. She's confident and happy, falling asleep. She stays asleep all night, she wakes up well rested, and then she goes off to school and is having a great day. She's Well rested And well rested. And she's like coming out with like better grades, better, like better everything. And just, and she says she feels better too. She actually told you guys that the other day. She's like, I feel right. She does. And she does. And she, and the other thing I'd like to add, she, if she can't sleep, she's figured out a way to not have us around, not need us. So she'll pick up a book and she'll read for a few minutes, right. And then try and go back to sleep again. So she's learned these skills on what to do without having us around all the time. Amazing. And I think that's huge. Yeah, it's Huge. So, you know, this is what my goal is, is that we want your children to have sleep skills so that they can go to sleep independently. And if they have an arousal, which they will, because all human have arousals, she knows how to go back to sleep without anybody doing something to and for her. Right. So, you know, she has sleep skills now, so therefore she has healthy sleep habits. And so now life is just easier. So, right. So my question to you now is, is if you were to meet a family, whether their child was six months old or eight years old, somewhere in between or 10 years old and they were sleep deprived and they had this belief that nothing will ever work for them, or they have a belief that doing some sleep coaching would would be mean or not nice.
Or they had a belief that oh, maybe their kid will just grow out of it. Like what do you want them to know about asking for sleep support now that you've been through this entire process? I mean, it, it's possible. It's possible. We have learned so much about, you know, psychological and, you know, systemic it, things that can affect sleep.
We have a lot more research and I think it can be done in a gentle way with it, with just a little bit of patience. And like you said, it's collaborative, so everybody's gotta be a team and we think you're just a wonderful guide that's helped us hours on end on, on the phone and, and been a cheerleader for our daughter, which is also helpful. Somebody that is not their parent to be able to let them know that they're doing a good job. So I do think it's possible gentle parenting is possible, which means that you could definitely sleep, train in a, in a very sweet and loving way Yes. And help them understand their bodies. Help them understand what to do.
Yeah. Yeah. To calm their nerves. And so these are skills that we have to teach our children. Yeah. They're not born knowing what to do. And so, you know, even humans nowadays need these skills and I think ands nothing wrong with asking for help. So Exactly. And exactly. And I, I remember what dad also said that I thought was really great is like just this idea of like,
don't doubt the process. Like be open. Yeah. Be open to the fact that there are multiple ways that we can go about creating the circumstances for the learning to come online. Yeah. And just being really open, like again, going from that brick wall, feeling like my only option is brick wall. And then realizing there were all these other options available to really work in this very sequential way. Right. Where the end result is everything you wanted, but you got there in a way you never even imagined. Correct. Yes. So thank you so much for trusting me and Absolutely thank you for Your time. And I'm so proud of all of you guys for all the work you've done. And now I get to say my favorite thing, which is welcome to the well Rested Family revolution.
Thank you, Joanna. We loved having you and getting to know you and everything about this process. Thank you. Thank you.
The Hidden Impact of Low Ferritin Levels in Children: What Every Parent Should Know
As a sleep coach, I've seen a wide array of factors that can affect a child's sleep quality and overall well-being. While we often focus on routines, environment, and emotional well-being, there's a less visible, but equally critical factor to consider: your child's ferritin levels. Recent findings have shed light on the prevalence of low ferritin and its implications, highlighting a crucial area of child health that parents and caregivers should not overlook.
Understanding Ferritin and Iron Deficiency
Ferritin serves as a storage container for iron in our bodies. It's like a savings account, ensuring that we have a backup supply when our daily iron intake doesn't meet our body's demands. However, when the body starts using this stored iron, ferritin levels drop, which can be an early warning sign of iron deficiency, even before it affects hemoglobin levels and causes anemia.A comprehensive study by Gupta et al. (2016) found that a significant percentage of young children in the United States exhibit signs of iron deficiency. Specifically, 13% of children between 1 and 2 years old have low ferritin levels, indicating that their iron reserves are being depleted. This is a critical developmental period, and iron plays a pivotal role in cognitive, motor, and behavioral development. The distinction between iron deficiency, anemia, and iron-deficient anemia is crucial for understanding the specific health challenges a child may face and addressing them appropriately.
Why Ferritin Levels Matter
The body prioritizes the use of iron in hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body, over the iron stored in ferritin. As explained by Özdemir (2015), when the body's iron needs exceed intake, it first uses the iron stored as ferritin. This means that a child can have normal iron levels while their ferritin stores are being depleted. By the time hemoglobin levels are affected, the body's iron stores may already be significantly diminished. This gradual depletion highlights the importance of early detection and intervention.
Implications for Sleep and Development
Iron and ferritin deficiencies can have profound effects on a child's health, including their sleep quality. Iron plays a vital role in the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep cycles. Low ferritin levels can lead to restless sleep, difficulty falling asleep, and more frequent nighttime awakenings. Beyond sleep, iron deficiency in early childhood can lead to cognitive and motor development delays, affecting a child's ability to learn and interact with their environment.
What Parents Can Do
Awareness is the first step. Regular check-ups with a pediatrician should include discussions about diet, iron intake, and, if necessary, blood tests to monitor ferritin and iron levels. For children at risk of iron deficiency or showing signs of sleep disturbances, early dietary interventions or supplementation can make a significant difference. Foods rich in iron, like lean meats, beans, and fortified cereals, can help boost iron intake. However, in cases of diagnosed iron or ferritin deficiency, a healthcare provider may recommend specific iron supplements.
A Gentle Sleep Coach, I work with parents to address sleep issues and collaborate with healthcare providers to monitor and manage nutritional concerns. Low ferritin is one of the medical conditions I often see in families struggling with their child’s sleep. Once these families work with the medical providers to get the low ferritin levels addressed we are able to move forward with successful sleep coaching which finally offers these families a total family sleep transformation. Hear from a few families that had success sleep coaching after we identified low ferritin was playing a role in their struggle.
As guardians of our children's health, it's our responsibility to look beyond the surface and understand the underlying factors that contribute to their well-being. Low ferritin levels can be a silent issue, often overlooked until more significant symptoms arise. By staying informed and proactive in monitoring and addressing iron and ferritin levels, we can support our children's health, development, and sleep quality, laying a strong foundation for their future.
For more information on the impact of iron deficiency in children, I recommend reading the articles by Gupta et al. (2016) and Özdemir (2015) for a deeper understanding of this critical health issue.
References:
Gupta, P. M., Perrine, C. G., Mei, Z., & Scanlon, K. S. (2016). Iron, Anemia, and Iron Deficiency Anemia among Young Children in the United States. Nutrients, 8(6), 330. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8060330
Özdemir, N. (2015). Iron deficiency anemia from diagnosis to treatment in children. Archives of Turkish Pediatrics, 50(1), 11–19. https://doi.org/10.5152/tpa.2015.2337
Remember, a well-rested child is a happier, healthier child. Let's give our children the best start.
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching Receives 2023 Best of Mountain View Award
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching Receives 2023 Best of Mountain View Award
Mountain View Award Program Honors the Achievement
MOUNTAIN VIEW September 4, 2023 -- Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching has been selected for the 2023 Best of Mountain View Award in the Life coach category by the Mountain View Award Program.
Each year, the Mountain View Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Mountain View area a great place to live, work and play.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2023 Mountain View Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Mountain View Award Program and data provided by third parties.
About Mountain View Award Program
The Mountain View Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Mountain View area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.
The Mountain View Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to recognize the small business community's contributions to the U.S. economy.
SOURCE: Mountain View Award Program
CONTACT:
Mountain View Award Program
Email: PublicRelations@citieshonorcompany.com
URL: http://www.citieshonorcompany.com
To Learn more about Mountain View:
Catch Flights, Not Tears: Our Family's Sleep Coaching Triumph
Life feels “smaller” and “restrictive” when you are sleep-deprived, but incredible things become possible when you are a well-rested family.
For Jessica’s family it was when they received an invitation to a fabulous destination wedding, but it had a strict "no kids" policy. Previously, this invitation would have been an automatic "no" due to the baby's sleep struggles.
But now, with a well-rested and content child, they can confidently say "yes" to attending the wedding because their child now sleeps successfully at Grandma’s house and so these parents have the confidence that they can travel and enjoy a well-deserved break.
This family indeed experienced a Total Family Sleep Transformation!
Before they embarked on their sleep coaching journey, life for this family was tough. By 14 months, their baby had never slept through the night. There were multiple wake-ups and constant feeding. These parents kept thinking…"Well, he's still a baby," but things only got worse. The baby would only sleep while being held, and even then, transfers to the crib only gave them 1.5-2 hours of sleep, leaving the parents exhausted and on edge.
Then came the turning point.
Their initial reluctance to seek help melted away when they discovered the compassionate and effective approach of Gentle Sleep Coaching with Joanna. The Stairway to Sleep Approach does not resort to the "cry-it-out" method, but rather a gradual, gentle process that allowed their child to adjust and learn at his own pace. Through this, they learned more about their child's needs, communication cues, and unique personality, making them better parents during the day as well.
At first, the idea of admitting they needed help with their child's sleep felt strange. But as they sat down with Joanna, they realized the value of having an expert guide them through the process.
Their son now has a bedtime routine that he understands and enjoys. Rolling around, babbling, and singing to himself has become his way of winding down. Through the work with Joanna, they established clear routines for bedtime and waking up, and their son quickly caught on.
After just a short period of sleep coaching, their baby now falls asleep within 15 minutes at 6 PM, sleeps a solid 12 hours each night, and stays asleep without a battle. Naps are easy now in the crib. No more contact naps required! Imagine the relief!
Suddenly, there was TIME to accomplish tasks, enjoy a leisurely dinner, or work on those neglected house projects. Mornings became reliable, allowing for showers, preparation for the day, and yes, even dreaming about vacations.
Does this all sound familiar to you?
Are you a parent who feels like you've tried everything to get your little one to sleep through the night?
Are the nights getting more difficult and thus creating a grumpy child and parents during the day?
Has family offered to babysit, but the bedtime battles and night wakings are so bad that you would never put this sleep-deprivation on someone else?
Maybe you have heard of “sleep training” but, you are fearful this will cause emotional trauma for you and your child?
Do you find yourself thinking…“I am their parent, I SHOULD know how to help them sleep” ?
If you're reading this and nodding along, feeling the weight of sleepless nights and the exhaustion of trying everything, know that there is hope. This Sleep Success Interview video featuring this family's journey is a testament to the life-changing impact of sleep coaching.
Don't let exhaustion and sleepless nights define your family's life. Take a step towards freedom, rest, and peace of mind. You deserve it, and so does your child. Here's to better sleep and brighter mornings ahead!
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Vote for Me by 4/27! I am a Finalist for the People's Choice Health and Wellbeing Award
(Vote in the Health and Wellbeing Drop-down Menu).
I am thrilled to share my nomination as a finalist for the 2024 Women Changing the World Awards. I'm more than a sleep coach; I'm a dream nurturer and a family empowerment advocate.
Being nominated as a finalist for the People's Choice Health and Wellbeing Award is an honor that fills me with both gratitude and excitement. This recognition by the Women Changing the World Awards Organization is a testament to the hard work and passion that I, along with countless other women, pour into endeavors to make a positive impact in areas ranging from health and education to sustainability.
Presented by influential figures such as Sarah Ferguson Duchess of York, and Dr. Tererai Trent, these awards are a beacon of hope and encouragement, spotlighting the indomitable spirit of women who strive to create a better tomorrow.
Your vote for me, Joanna Clark, is a step towards endorsing a future where sleep is understood as an essential pillar of wellbeing, families thrive, and children grow up with life-long healthy sleep habits and confidence. Let's champion the transformative power of sleep and support each other in creating a better, well-rested world.
Why am I creating a “Well-Rested Revolution”
My path to becoming a certified Gentle Sleep Coach was born out of my own struggle with sleep deprivation as a new mother. The journey from feeling helpless and exhausted to helping thousands of families find peace and rest has been incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about the sleep; it’s about empowering parents and changing lives.
Honoring the Family: Beyond Sleep Training
The focus of my work at Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching goes beyond the basics of sleep training. I delve into the intricacies of each family's dynamics, offering personalized, guilt-free, and gentle coaching solutions that are rooted in the latest sleep science, behavioral science and attachment theory scientific research. I also help parents know their child and build confidence in their parenting journey.
A Philosophy of Compassion and Pediatric Sleep Science
My approach is defined by its gentle, child-led philosophy. I firmly believe in creating a nurturing environment that fosters sleep without the trauma or guilt associated with the 'cry-it-out' method. It's about enhancing the well-being of the entire family and doing so with kindness and understanding.
Collaborating With Other Women for Greater Impact
I credit much of my success to the support and collaboration with a community of sleep coaches, pediatricians, doulas, and lactation specialists. My Board Position Involvement with WO3, an initiative that supports women-owned businesses, underscores my belief in the strength of community and the impact of united efforts.
A Vision for the Future: “A Well-Rested Family Revolution”
Looking forward, I am committed to continuing my work in empowering families towards better sleep and, consequently, a better life. Getting great sleep for their child not only creates the momentum and focus families need to feel more like themselves, but it also strengthens relationships, boosts confidence, allows them to wake up refreshed, enjoy more free time, get in great workouts, and most importantly, feel like themselves again.
Every Vote Counts: Vote by April 27th
This announcement isn’t just about my achievements; it's a rallying call for you to help other families know how and where to find accurate and reliable sleep help. By voting for me, you're championing my mission that promises a healthier, more harmonious future for families across the world.
More on Women Changing the World
The winners will be announced at the Women Changing the World Global Summit and Awards in London on May 25, 2024. I can't wait to be a part of this momentous event by supporting me on this journey. To know more about the Women Changing the World Awards go to the finalists page.
Your vote is more than just a tick on a page; it's a step toward healthier, happier families and a brighter, more restful future. Let's celebrate the change-makers and shape a better world, together.
Discover the Journey to Blissful Sleep: Joanna Clark's Feature on Shout Out Colorado
It is with immense joy and gratitude that I share the exciting news I have been featured on Shout Out Colorado. This feature not only shines a light on my personal journey, but also delves into the mission and philosophy that drive Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching towards transforming families into well-rested havens of harmony and tranquility.
In this interview we delve into answers:
How I thought about starting my own business?
Why I became a sleep coach.
For those who might not be familiar with Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I will tell you more about what I do.
Obstacles I have overcame in my business?
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
If I had a friend visiting me in Los Altos and Palo Alto, California, here are some of the local spots that are not to be missed.
I invite you to join me on this journey towards blissful sleep and harmonious family living. As you explore the featured conversation on Shout Out Colorado, you'll discover the heart behind Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching and the passion that drives me to empower parents towards restful nights and joyful days.
To read the full feature and dive deeper into the world of gentle sleep coaching.
Are you struggling with your child’s sleep?
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Sleep Success Story: Time-strapped Parents Rejoice: Joanna's Sleep Coaching Strengthens Family Bonds And Unlocks Quality Time.
Perhaps you've been there, nights blending into days, the exhaustion seeping into every moment, and the worry gnawing at your heart.
Maybe you've scoured books, forums, and advice columns, hoping for that one solution that feels right.
You understand the deep desire to nurture your child's growth while navigating the complexities of sleep struggles.
Parenthood can be a whirlwind of emotions, filled with love beyond measure and challenges that test your resolve. Let me tell you about the incredible journey of this amazing family.
Before they found me, life was a constant battle with sleepless nights, exhausting routines, and the struggle of parenting felt overwhelming. When they reached out, they were at their wit's end, trying everything but finding no relief.
What truly touched my heart was their unwavering commitment to their child's well-being and their desire to preserve their strong emotional bond. They chose a path that felt right for them, and after working together, the transformation was profound.
Bedtime became a peaceful ritual, boundaries were set with love, and their son blossomed into a happy, expressive child. I was moved by their dedication to learning and growing as parents, and the trust they placed in me to guide them.
It’s not just about sleep; it's about the strength of family, the joy of connection, and the empowerment of finding what works uniquely for your child.
If you've ever felt lost in the sea of sleep advice, or if you're seeking a customized approach that truly fits your family, I invite you to watch this heartfelt journey. It's a testament to the power of understanding, compassion, and the beauty of a well-rested family. Watch now and see the incredible transformation for yourself.
Samantha and Neel want everyone to know:
“Being a parent means you are guiding your child through life. But the reality is…sometimes “the guide” needs “A GUIDE” and it's nice to have someone who's well-versed in child development and what is most appropriate. With Joanna, it was a priority every single meeting to know how we were feeling and our perspective on the learning process for both parents. Joanna was making sure me and my husband were always on the same page and agreeing to each step and that we felt good about the process.
If families are worried that sleep coaching is going to jeopardize any attachment- NOT THIS METHOD WORKING WITH JOANNA. It's made us come together stronger and it's made me understand my role and what's most effective. Our emotional attachment to our son is even stronger now. Working with Joanna is so worth it. You're never alone in doing it, I consider Joanna part of our village.
For those you, who have tried sleep training with no success- we definitely went through that and we realized we needed customization. YouTube videos and books might work for 50% or 70% of other kids, but it might not work for you. Joanna really customized our sleep coaching journey to exactly what we were dealing with and that was key for us. I had done so much research and read so much about sleep and every method, but nothing was really working. I was always against cry-it-out. I considered it, but there was something inside my heart, that just would not let me do that and I had to go with my own intuition. I wanted to honor our parent-child relationship, keep our emotional connection alive, respect my child and make sure he knows he's loved. I didn't want something to come in and jeopardize our attachment or our communication with our child. We talked to our pediatrician about the sleep struggles and she recommended Joanna.
After sleep coaching, 7pm bedtime is so smooth. We have such healthy, strong boundaries and our son understands them. He's happy to read his books, he understands what's going to happen next and moves on easily to the next step of the bedtime routine. He is way happier and enjoys what he's doing so much. The time we spend together now is actually QUALITY TIME. We're doing bike rides, we're learning things. We're enjoying the day. He's learning so much. Our son had his speech delay and after sleep coaching, he had this burst of vocabulary. He can talk and it's understandable. Because he is now so well-rested and speaking well, we felt comfortable in starting preschool. There's more time for everything with a happy, rested child. I'm working out again. Dad learned a lot about being consistent and being on the same page with our co-parenting.
The thing I liked most about working with Joanna was that we both learned so much through this journey about our son, about ourselves, what kind of parents we are and what kind of parents we want to be. All the detective work that Joanna did was so impressive and I know no other sleep coach would've been so thorough and dedicated to our success.
Are you struggling with your child’s sleep? Could you use some support?
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!