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Lights Out, Brain On: Navigating the Sleepy Maze of School Age Slumber"
Today, we're diving into the magical realm of school-age sleep challenges and the incredible transformations that happen when Gentle Sleep Coaching steps in to save the night. I've been at this for 13 years, and trust me, I've seen it all – from midnight negotiations to anxiety-induced bedtime dramas. But fear not, because where there's a sleep challenge, there's a solution, and I'm here to spill the beans.
It's never too late to learn the skills of sleep!
The Mom-in-the-Room Chronicles:
Remember those nights when bedtime was more negotiation than relaxation? Picture this: a weary mom perched at the end of her child's bed, quietly tiptoeing out once the Sandman claimed victory. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. The mom-in-the-room chronicles are real, and they often come with an invisible ticket to the middle of night wake-up circus.
The Middle of the Night Wake-Up Circus:
Ah, the art of multiple wake-ups! It's like your child has an internal alarm clock set for inconvenient intervals. But worry not, because with the right gentle guidance, we can turn those annoying wake-ups into uninterrupted dreams that even Sleeping Beauty would envy.
The Early Rising Enigma:
Early risers –waking between 4-6am- the bane of every exhausted parent's existence. But guess what? There's hope! Gentle Sleep Coaching can unravel the secrets to the early rising enigma, so you can savor those precious extra moments of shut-eye.
Stress and Anxiety Chronicles:
Stress and anxiety have a knack for sneaking into the bedtime routine, creating a tumultuous sea of worries. But take heart, dear parents! With the right tools and techniques, we'll navigate those choppy waters and lead your child to the calm shores of peaceful slumber.
I have been working with my clients Jennifer and Dustin for 5 years now sleep coaching their children and guiding them back to blissful sleep when regressions arise. Most recently, the family reached out when their nights included multiple wake ups and difficulty falling asleep fueled by stress and anxiety of their 8 year old daughter. Traveling for work was HARD on everyone. Nights out with girlfriends weren't happening. Mom and Dad knew there were resources available, a village to support them and a process to get back to Beautiful Blissful Sleep.
Watch their Sleep Success Story to hear how this family got back to calm nights and waking up rested.
Jennifer wants everyone to know:
"Having the right coach to walk us through this process was completely game changing for us. Years ago, when we first called Joanna, I had in the back of my mind "I'm a mom, I should know how to do this." It takes a village and it takes help. You have to reach out and ask for help and know that there's so many great resources available. There are processes that have been proven and techniques that can be used. As a mom you don't need to know everything and it's okay to reach out for help."
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!
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So, hello, I'm Joanna with Blissful Baby. Sleep Coaching. And today is a a celebration call with one of my longtime clients. Jennifer, thank you so much for being here. Absolutely. We're gonna have a great conversation today because we've actually worked together three separate times. We worked together first when her daughter was three years old and we did sleep training from top to bottom in the crib.
Great. Got her sleeping on we go. Then number two, baby came along when that baby was old enough, we sleep trained the son, no problem. Life goes on. So then between the ages of three and nearly eight, I don't hear from Jennifer and her husband. So that's what, how many years? That's like five years. And then all of a sudden one day I see them pop up on my phone 'cause I have all my clients on my phone and I'm like, Hey, and why were you calling mom? You're like, help. Yeah, We were calling because our daughter had a regression and we were in a place where she was not able to put herself to sleep and it was causing quite a bit of impact, you know, within our family and getting her to bed and getting her to stay asleep at night.
Yeah. So we had, so in other words, like we had kind of an interesting situation because technically this child had all her sleep skills, meaning she knows how to self-regulate, she knows how to self-settle, she knows how to self-soothe. She knows how to go to sleep. She knows how to go back to sleep. But all of a sudden, none of the above was happening. And what was replaced was fear around bedtime, anxiety around bedtime, fear in the middle of the night and being very mommy preference and kind of barnacle the mommy barnacle. Like just utterly devastated if mom was not, was not in view, you know, had to be in view all the time in every right. Like if you've tried to leave the house that's out of view.
She couldn't handle it and it just kind of started and then it kind of spiraled and like it started and then it kind of like ended up, really started seeping into bedtime and then seeping into the middle of the night. So it was like a slow build A little bit. Yeah. It was a very slow build. She had done well going to sleep for quite a while and then we had noticed, you know, we'd have a little bit of trouble getting her to sleep at night and then she would, you know, come downstairs in the middle of the night, we'd have to walk her back up. And then, you know, when she had started in elementary school is where we started seeing quite a bit of the difference. And I think that was due to just a lot of change going on with her life changing schools and you know, being in kindergarten, being in first grade And covid covid. Yes. And being outta school for a long period of time, there was just so much, so much change. So many things that were happening in her life. And I feel that that her concern around those things came out, you know, and how she was falling asleep or not falling asleep I should say. And then resting throughout the night. Those stressors were really impacting her sleep schedule. Exactly. Exactly. And so that's when Jennifer called and said, okay, we have a regression, but it's not your typical regression of, you know, oops, we went on a vacation, we ended up co-sleeping and now all she wants is co-sleeping. There was more going on.
There was the, the fear, the anxiety and, and and also just this neediness of the mommy preference, right? Yeah. She had a lot of anxiety built up and that that's something that we, you know, worked through and talked through, you know, quite a bit, which I didn't even recognize until we really started talking quite a bit bit how much her anxiety over going to sleep was truly impacting the, the entire process of her going to sleep. Exactly. So we did a really thorough assessment. Obviously dad was involved in all of these conversations. Like this was definitely a family system. And we got Brooke involved in, oh, excuse me, I don't wanna say her name. Anyways, we got your daughter involved in all the conversations so that she understood exactly what we were doing, why we were doing it, that we were working with her, with the team. I was kind of her sleep teacher, sleep coach. I forget what did she call me? She had, didn't she call me something? I mean, she knew me as Miss Joanna, but I think she kind of saw me as like the sleep teacher or something like that sleep Teacher.
She kind of saw me in that role. And so it was very collaborative with her. So there was nothing that was like put upon her or forced upon her. It was very much step by step, day by day integrations that she was highly aware of that she, that we had cre co-created with her. And so we are now, like, now we reached all her goals.
Like, so mom, now tell me what it looks like now. You know, it is, it's absolutely amazing. So I travel for work here and there and you know, I recall leaving and there just being so much fear and anxiety built up to where, you know, I would get upset. She would get upset, everybody in the whole house would be upset.
And I mean, just a complete fear of me being gone and not being there to put her asleep. I was at a point where I was laying at the end of her bed and I would quietly get up when she, you know, fell asleep and tiptoe out. I mean, there was times where I would even, you know, just sneak out of the room hoping that the floor wouldn't creak and make noise to wake her up.
And, you know, all of that, you know, went on for a, a very long time. And I think a lot of it was my fear of like, you know, how are we going, how are we going to to, you know, get to the place where we need to be, get back to that place where we need to be.
And so now you know that we've gone through the steps, we've done the process, we've worked with Joanna, we've worked with you, you know, to really uncover, you know, what is gonna motivate Brooke, what is going to increase her confidence and going to bed and make her proud of herself. And I think that, you know, she felt so much fear.
She was so worried that she couldn't do it, that we had to build that confidence up. We had to build, you know, her self-esteem around knowing that she could go to bed and do it on her own. And now, you know, when I leave for work to go outta town, you know, I get a hug goodbye. I get a mom,
I'm gonna miss you and I'll talk to you in just a little while, I'll call you. And there's not fear around what's gonna happen at bedtime. It it's, it's been such a difference in our lives. And you know, Brooke is proud of herself. Oops. Yes. She's so, she's so confident now. When we go to bed, we get ready for bed, we use our sleep manners, we go into the room, we give hugs, we give kisses. She'll sit and read a book too to or herself sometimes to settle herself and she lays down and goes to sleep. Sleep. And I'm not sitting outside the door or I'm not sitting in a chair or sneaking outta the room at night. And, And this is at seven 30 and this is at seven 30.
Everyone I want you to know. So again, eight, she's, she's almost eight. So what grade is she in? Second. Second grade, huh? Yeah. Yeah. So, so you know those of you that have older, older children that are like, oh my gosh, it's too late. I just have a bad sleeper. I just have to like lay down with her every night.
You know, this is just my life. The answer is no, it doesn't have to be your life. Because this child now happily goes to bed, lights out at seven 30, she's asleep by eight. And mom says that on the weekdays sometimes she actually has to wake her up in order to go to school 'cause she's willing to like literally sleep like 11 to 12 hours at night.
Whereas before she was having early rising and always up and out the door and wandering down the hallway and finding, you know, going to the bedroom, the master bedroom and stuff. So we've got a child now that is like confident, loves her bed, has a bedtime routine, she likes sleeping 11.5 to 12 hours all night long. And then you told me how it's changed her demeanor.
So you told me in the morning, what does she like in the morning Waking up excited and happy and just ready for her day. She's well rested, we're all well rested, which is has been an, an amazing experience to get to this point. Yeah, Yeah. And also no drama anymore. No barnacle like behavior with mom. Mom you just said told me that you just went out with your girlfriends last night for a girl, a girlfriend's dinner and all you to do is say, okay, I'm going out to dinner with my friends, I'll be back. And she goes, okay. Yep. Exactly. And then you went on a business trip and it was like, okay. Yep. And then you did two other things that were like things, your goals on your list that recently that went well.
Tell us about that. Yeah, she was able to stay over at her grandparents' house and have a fun slumber party and everyone was able to get, be rested and not exhausted at the end of the day, you know, or waking up in the morning. She did great with that and she's having her first real slumber party this weekend and we can't wait for her to be able to experience that little milestone in life. So you can see you guys, it's never too late. So when, when you, when you think that people like, you know, again, now you've been this through three times at all different ages, all different stages. Male, female, you know, one boy, one girl. Like if you, if you met a mom that was just totally, you know, or met some parents that just had, you know, sleep, had been struggling with sleep and, and their child was between the ages of six months and 10 years of age, like what do you wanna tell 'em about sleep training and, and sleep coaching and, and and finding the right coach to support them? Yeah, you know, I, having the right coach and having a coach walk us through this process was completely game changing for us when we, you know, years ago when we first called Joanna, you know, I had in the back of my mind that, you know, I should know this. Like I should, I'm a mom, I should know how to do this. And it takes a village and it takes help and it's, you know, you have to reach out and ask for help and know that there's so many great resources, so many, you know, processes that have been proven and techniques that can be used. And, and as a mom you don't need to know everything and it's okay to reach out for help and it's okay to know that, you know, there is a light at the end of the tunnel and it will get better. You will get sleep, I promise you'll get sleep eventually. And we are, we're getting sleep now. And I, you know, I've just gotta say that, you know, we, we Joanna we greatly appreciate you. You've, you've been there for us and our babies, you know, for years through different regressions and, and given us the tools, you know, to really be able to give them, you know, the sleep that they need for them to be, you know, successful in school and successful in their day and confident and you know, everything. And this again, it, it trickles over to other things in their life, you know, where they're building confidence in around. So we just, we greatly appreciate it. Good. Yeah. 'cause your life gets easier as a parent too, right? So, you know, you're able now to go on the business trip without guilt. You're able to now go out to go out to dinner with your girlfriends without guilt. Dad is saying, fine, go out with your girlfriends 'cause these kids are so easy to take care of now I'm happy to be in the house. I'm gonna put these kids to bed and now I have a quiet house for a couple hours while you're out. And that was never the case whenever you left, dad was kind of left with a mess. And so now he can leave, he can enjoy a quiet house while the kids are sleeping and you get to go out and ha and see some friends or vice versa. He can go out with his guy friends and you can have a quiet house 'cause both kids are going to sleep at seven 30 at night. You know, I mean, it just opens up a whole world of possibility. And like you said, it takes a village and that as a mom, you know, we have this perception that we've gotta figure it all out on our own or that just our immediate circle is gonna be enough to provide the insight to help us solve things. And the reality is, is that, you know, you don't know what you don't know.
And so if you're in your own world and then you're only asking your friend or your grandma or your best friend, but they're all doing the same thing that you're doing, like you're still all Works for us, Right? Like you're, you're, you're, you're still stuck inside your own vacuum. You, you don't know all this knowledge that's sitting on the periphery ready to,
to be accessed. Right? And I think that, that reaching out to talk to a coach is just not a scary thing. 'cause you always, as a parent, you wanna know what your options are. And the good news is that for a lot of families, they think that if they have an older child, there's no options. But there's absolutely,
sleep is a learned skill. We can teach the skills of sleep to any child. I tend to work with children up to age 10. Some people will say, but what if my child is 12, 13, 14, 15? That can also be t taught, I can refer you to people that need that. But you know, as they get older, some of this fear,
anxiety and stuff starts young and it gets stickier and stickier and stickier. So parents that ignore it at the young age end up with a stickier. And so you kind of knew, you're like, no, we don't need to keep this going, that we need to get the support now. So she doesn't have to keep having that feeling anymore. So thank you for trusting me all these years.
We've got, I guess we've got like, see what's, see eight minus three is five. So five years we've known each other or three times. So thank you to you and your husband for trusting you. I'm so happy that you're a part of the well-rested revolution Are, we are very well rested now in this house. That is absolutely For sure.
Thank you.
Navigating Milk Consumption: Balancing Nutrient Intake to Prevent Childhood Anemia & Low Iron Storage (low Ferritin)
Do you serve milk with meals? Or as a stand alone snack?
We've all heard about the goodness of milk for our kids. But did you know that milk, despite its nutritional benefits, can sometimes play a tricky role in your child's diet? Recent research has pointed out how milk interacts with iron absorption, especially important in children's diets.
Understanding Milk's Role:
Milk is packed with nutrients like calcium and casein, which are great for building strong bones and muscles. However, here's the catch: these same nutrients can interfere with the absorption of iron from other foods your child eats. When milk and iron-rich foods team up in the same meal, it can throw a wrench into the body's ability to soak up that vital iron. This interference could potentially lead to iron deficiency and increase the risk of anemia or low iron storage (low ferritin), especially in growing kids.
Connecting Milk, Iron Deficiency (Anemia) and Iron Storage (Ferritin):
Studies have shown that too much milk in a child's diet could be linked to a higher risk of anemia. Pairing milk with iron-rich foods might make matters worse by hindering the absorption of iron. This double whammy could set the stage for iron deficiency anemia or low iron storage (ferritin), which can have serious consequences for your child's health. That's why being strategic about meal planning is key to ensuring your child gets the nutrients they need without missing out on iron absorption.
Practical Tips for Parents:
To help your child get the most out of their meal, it's a good idea to separate milk consumption from iron-rich foods. By serving milk as a standalone beverage or snack and saving iron-rich foods for other times, you can give your child's body a better chance to absorb the iron it needs. This simple tweak can go a long way in supporting their overall health and sleep patterns.
Why do I worry about iron as a sleep coach?
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body, and it is essential for various physiological functions, including oxygen transport, energy metabolism, and neurotransmitter synthesis. Ferritin plays a crucial role in regulating sleep quality and overall well-being. Research suggests that iron deficiency can lead to restless sleep, frequent awakenings, and disruptions in sleep architecture, such as decreased slow-wave sleep and increased arousal during the night.
Over the years, I have worked with many families where we have identified low ferritin as the culprit behind some of their child’s sleep struggles. As part of my Stairway to Sleep Gentle sleep coaching process, we assess and address potential underlying factors contributing to poor sleep, such as iron deficiency and collaborate with healthcare professionals when these situations arise.
As always, I advise my client’s to work with their pediatricians for advice about their specific child. If you are worried or have questions about your child’s milk consumption or iron levels, it’s always important to check with your pediatrician.
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!
Me Time For Moms
I have been working with this family since 2017 by doing One-on-One customized sleep coaching for all three of their children. She called me out of the blue recently and told me she wanted me to know how good life was these days!!!
House is quiet.
Kitchen is clean.
Laundry is folded.
All three of children are asleep!
Enjoying "mommy time" starting with a glass of wine since all chores and house is quiet.
me time for moms
Like so many others, they waited until 16 months with her first child when the child AND mom was ready. They had hit pure exhaustion, marital conflict and inability to go on like this any longer. Mom and Dad had the same goals, but weren't sure how to get there!
This is so common! With One-on-One Sleep Coaching, I help bring a united front where parents end up “high-fiving” each other and working together instead of “tit-for-tat” battles. There is no need to disagree on something you already agree on.
Parents DON’T have to do the "close the door, and let their child cry it out."
"Joanna customized the plan to my child which helped give me the confidence to start the process earlier with my 2nd and 3rd child." Watching this family's evolution to Join the “WELL-RESTED FAMILY REVOLUTION” has been incredible!
Talk about Getting Your Life Back...Listen to Alicia's Fabulous story!
<<< Click image or here to watch video.
Alicia wants everyone to know:
"It's never too late to start. It's ok to "mess up" and restart. I've done a lot of 20 minute tune up calls (after a sickness or vacation) and you can easily get right back on track. You can still be successful."
Are you struggling to get your child to 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!
Yipee! I am a Finalist in Women Changing the World Awards ! Winners to be Chosen May 25th, 2024
I am thrilled to share some exciting news with you. I have been selected as one of the finalists for the People’s Choice Award in Health and Well-being for the Women Changing the World Awards!
Among a pool of 2,000 applicants, the distinguished panel of judges has chosen 319 inspiring finalists across 55 categories, and I am honored to be one of the 32 finalists in the People's Choice Award for Health and Well-being.
This journey has been immensely rewarding, and I am deeply grateful for the support I have received from organizations like WO3 and communities like the Gentle Sleep Coaching Community. Their belief in my mission to empower families through better sleep has been invaluable.
The winners will be announced on Saturday, May 25th, 2024. I am excited and honored to be among such incredible individuals who are making a difference in their respective fields.
I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation for your ongoing support. Your encouragement means the world to me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with you.
Thank you once again for your support, and let's keep our fingers crossed for Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching to be selected as the final winner on May 25th!
Warm regards,
Joanna Clark
#wcwawards #finalists #global #awards #womenchangingtheworld #support #womensupportingwomen #womenempowerment #changemake #thesleeplady #wo3day #JoannaClark #BlissfulBabySleepCoaching #sleepconsultant #SleepisBliss #babysleep #babysleeptips #babysleepconsultant #babysleepexpert #howtogetkidstosleep #babysleeproutine #babysleephelp #babysleepsolutions #tiredmom #toddlersleep #newparents #newmom #parenthood #parentproblems #newborntips #sleeproutine #weaning #naps #waketime #sleeptime #parentsupport #overtired
PRESS RELEASE
Local Woman-Owned Business Named as a Finalist for Global Awards & Summit on Women Changing the World
PALO ALTO, CA – Joanna Clark of Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching has been selected as one of 32 finalists for the People’s Choice Award for Health and Well-being at the 2024 Women Changing the World Global Awards and Summit.
The Women Changing the World Awards, presented by Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, and one of Oprah Winfrey’s all-time favorite guests, Dr. Tererai Trent, celebrate and recognize women achieving outstanding success in areas such as sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, tech, product development, education, health, and innovation. The awards are designed to recognize the growing number of women who are leading the way in making the world a better place and to inspire other women to take action.
“These exceptional women are here to awaken hearts, give permission to recapture dreams, and inspire the women of the world to come together to forge a brighter path for all. The rising of women is the awakening of everybody,” explains Dr. Trent.
Joanna Clark started her Pediatric Sleep Coaching business after her own family’s sleep transformation. Her journey began when her child wasn’t sleeping like “other babies,” leaving Joanna sleep-deprived and filled with self-doubt and confusion. Seeking expert help from a Sleep Coach resulted in a true family transformation for her family. Inspired by this experience, Joanna made it her mission to help other sleep-deprived parents achieve beautiful, blissful sleep.
As a tenured and Certified Gentle Sleep Coach and Pediatric Sleep Expert, Joanna has spent the past 13 years helping sleep-deprived families become well-rested. Using proven evidence-based methods, she provides guilt-free and gentle sleep coaching solutions for children aged six months to six years. Joanna’s step-by-step and child-led approach helps parents tenderly teach the "skills of sleep" to their children.
Joanna’s work has helped thousands of families solve their child’s sleep struggles. Recognized as one of the top 200 coaches in the US by Tuck and a 3x International Amazon Best-Selling Contributing Author, Joanna’s success is further validated by her five-star reviews on Google Reviews and Yelp. She has also been a guest on numerous podcasts and featured in various media outlets and publications.
Joanna’s approach is distinguished by its depth and breadth, rooted in her personal journey and philosophy. As one of the first 50 trained and certified Gentle Sleep Coaches® in the United States, Joanna approach offers an alternative to “cry-it-out” methods and offers a scientifically-backed, gentle approach to sleep training that respects each family’s and child’s unique needs. Her aim is to nurture the family unit, eliminate guilt and shame, and build confidence and unity among parents all while minimizing tears and frustration and offering a fully customized process.
Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching is more than just achieving sleep; it’s about enhancing the well-being of the entire family. Joanna’s approach is data-driven, focusing on the details and nuances of a child’s life and the family’s values, goals, and feelings. This meticulous attention to detail, likened to being a “Sleep Detective,” sets Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching apart.
Dr. Trent’s vision for these awards is to empower women everywhere to reclaim their sacred dreams and unite to pave the way towards a better future for all.
Joanna encourages others thinking about following their calling to make a difference, stating, "Small, women-led businesses are changing the world, making a profound impact, all while infusing their work with tremendous heart!"
Joanna Clark is proud of her achievements and is creating a WELL-RESTED FAMILY REVOLUTION. She educates families daily on how to optimize their child’s sleep for healthy growth and development. Joanna’s guilt-free, Gentle Sleep Coaching® is a science-based method providing a systematic, proven process for nurturing a child’s sleep skills without “crying-it-out” and without psychological trauma or guilt.
Joanna attributes her successes to her mentor, Kim West, author of Good Night, Sleep Tight and founder of the Gentle Sleep Coaching community. She is an active participant in a global Gentle Sleep Coach community and part of a worldwide network of pediatricians, doulas, and lactation specialists.
Joanna is also on the Executive Board of WO3, a grassroots effort supporting women-owned businesses. Through this initiative, Joanna spotlights exceptional women-led businesses that support mothers and families, building a stronger, more inclusive community.
Joanna Clark of Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching is committed to making an impact through her work and vision for the future. Her approach is deeply rooted in compassion, scientific understanding, and a commitment to the family unit. Joanna is honored to be a finalist in the Health and Wellbeing category for the People’s Choice Award.
The winners of the 2024 Women Changing the World Awards will be announced at the Women Changing the World Global Summit and Awards in London, United Kingdom, on May 25, 2024. To read the complete finalist list, visit wcwawards.com/finalists.
For more information on the Women Changing the World Awards, visit wcwawards.com or contact Joanna Clark at (626) 318-4621, Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, or via email at contactus@blissfulbabysleepcoaching.com.
Media Contact:
Joanna Clark
Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching
Phone: (626) 318-4621
Email: contactus@blissfulbabysleepcoaching.com
Website:Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching
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
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