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Can Co-Sleeping and Sleep Coaching Work Together? Yes—Here's How
Co-sleeping and sleep coaching don’t have to be at odds. In fact, they can work beautifully together—especially when your approach is child-led, attachment-focused, and tailored to your family’s values.
I talk to a lot of parents who are curious about improving their baby’s sleep, but feel stuck. They love the closeness and benefit of what that co-sleeping brings in those early months… for some families, co-sleeping is how they bond, how they nurse more easily and how they get any rest at all in the newborn phase 0-6 months. But as baby grows and gets more mobile and alert, sometimes things in the co-sleeping arrangement start to shift and it is no longer “as easy” as it once was…for example, , maybe their baby is waking every hour, needing to nurse back to sleep, or only settling for one parent. Maybe no one is sleeping well anymore in the co sleeping arrangement..
And yet the fear is real: “Sleep coaching means giving up co-sleeping, right?”.....Not necessarily.
Let’s unpack how co-sleeping and sleep coaching can absolutely coexist—and even thrive—when the plan is respectful, responsive, and aligned with your parenting philosophy.
First, Let’s Define What We Mean by “Co-Sleeping”
Co-sleeping can look like:
Bed-sharing: baby sleeps in the same bed as one or both parents
Room-sharing: baby has a separate sleep space (crib, bassinet, floor bed) in the same room
Floor bed setups: where the baby sleeps on a low mattress, often with a parent nearby
Many families begin co-sleeping intentionally—and others find themselves there out of sheer exhaustion. Either way, it’s a deeply personal choice. And like all parenting decisions, it’s okay for it to evolve.
You Can Honor Attachment and Improve Sleep
Here’s the truth: supporting your child’s sleep does not mean abandoning your parenting values.
You can:
Maintain your nursing relationship
Continue room-sharing or using a floor bed
Respond to your child with love and consistency
Move at a pace that feels right for you
In fact, the most successful sleep coaching plans are those that are customized to your unique situation—not one-size-fits-all methods that push harsh timelines or ignore your baby’s cues.
A truly child-led, attachment-honoring approach supports secure bonding and healthy, independent sleep.
The Turning Point: When Co-Sleeping No Longer Works
For many families I support, co-sleeping was working—until it wasn’t.
They tell me:
“We loved co-sleeping for the first few months. But now he wakes up every hour and I’m not functioning.”
“I’m ready for some space again, but I don’t want to traumatize him.”
“We want sleep support, but everything we read online makes us feel judged.”
Sound familiar?
This is where a gentle sleep coaching approach can be transformative—not because it forces a change, but because it supports the transition you're already feeling called to make.
What Does Child-Led Sleep Coaching Look Like?
Child-led doesn’t mean waiting endlessly for sleep to magically improve. It means:
Respecting your child’s temperament (especially alert babies who need structure)
Making gradual, loving changes based on readiness
Offering support when needed—and pulling back when possible
Prioritizing drowsy but awake at bedtime so your child learns to self-soothe, with you nearby as needed
We often start with small shifts: adjusting the bedtime routine, introducing a predictable sleep window, gently reducing crutches like nursing or rocking once the child is ready.
We take baby steps—literally and figuratively.
Real Families, Real Results
One of my recent clients beautifully illustrates how co-sleeping and sleep coaching can work together. This family had planned to co-sleep and loved it—until their baby began waking every hour and no one was getting rest. Mom still wanted to nurse, and they had a floor bed setup they didn’t want to give up.
We created a customized plan that introduced gentle coaching while honoring their goals. Within a couple of weeks, their baby was falling asleep independently, sleeping through the night, and still enjoying a warm, connected bedtime routine. No crying it out. No guilt. Just steady progress.
“I thought I’d have to give up co-sleeping entirely to get sleep help. Joanna met us where we were and helped us build better sleep habits without sacrificing connection.”
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Choose Between Sleep and Attachment
If you're feeling like you're at a crossroads—yearning for more sleep but afraid of what that might mean—take heart. You don’t have to sacrifice your values to improve your baby’s sleep. You just need the right support, the right tools, and a plan that puts your family at the center.
Whether you continue co-sleeping or transition to independent sleep, you can do so with gentleness, clarity, and confidence.
You are the expert on your baby. Sometimes you just need someone to walk alongside you—offering guidance, reassurance, and a clear path forward.
Please know that I do NOT advocate the "cry-it-out" method. As a certified Gentle Sleep Coach, I emphasize a guilt-free and gentle sleep coaching process that respects your child's developmental needs.
Let’s work together to restore peaceful nights for your family. Contact me today and I’ll be in touch within 24 hours with information on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
Join the "Sleep is Bliss Tribe"
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.
Happy Father’s Day
This one’s for you.
You—the dad who gets up at 2:17 AM for the third time tonight.
You—the dad who sings lullabies off-key just to calm your baby’s cries.
You—the dad who’s juggling work, dishes, and diaper duty without asking for applause.
From the bottom of my heart:
Happy Father’s Day.
Because being a dad today? It’s not about just “bringing home the bacon.”
It’s about being hands-on, heart-led, and fully present—even when you're running on fumes.
You’re not just helping with bedtime.
You’re building trust, modeling love, and shaping your child’s nervous system to feel safe and secure.
That’s not small stuff. That’s life-shaping stuff.
And while we don’t often talk about the toll it takes—the long nights, the fatigue, the mental load—you deserve to hear this:
You’re doing a phenomenal job.
We see you.
We honor you.
We appreciate you.
Your presence is the magic.
Your consistency is the security.
Your love is the foundation.
So today, enjoy your child's hug. Eat the pancake breakfast made just for you. Smile at the handmade card.
And maybe—just maybe—sneak in time for yourself.
Because you, too, deserve to be celebrated.
Happy Father’s Day,
This Father’s Day, Skip the Dinner Date—Try This Instead!
In the recent episode of "We Can Do Hard Things," titled "Date Nights: Why They Suck & How to Make Them Great," Glennon, Abby, and Amanda delve into the intricacies of maintaining connection and excitement in relationships. They discuss the limitations of traditional "date nights" and explore alternative ways to foster intimacy and understanding between partners.
As Father's Day approaches, it's an opportune moment to reflect on how we celebrate and connect with the fathers in our lives. Instead of the customary dinner date, consider embracing the concept of a "date day"—a dedicated time to engage in meaningful activities that strengthen your bond and create lasting memories.
Rethinking the Traditional Date Night
Traditional date nights often come with expectations and pressures that can detract from genuine connection. The routine of dinner and a movie, while enjoyable, may not always provide the space for deep interaction or shared growth. In the podcast, the hosts highlight the importance of breaking away from conventional molds to discover what truly brings partners closer.
Embracing the "Date Day" Concept
A "date day" offers the flexibility to explore new experiences together, free from the constraints of evening schedules. This approach aligns with the idea of "unknowing" your partner—allowing yourselves to see each other in new lights and contexts, fostering a renewed sense of curiosity and appreciation.
Ideas for a Memorable Father's Day Date Day
Outdoor Adventures: Plan a hike, bike ride, or picnic in a scenic location. Sharing physical activities can invigorate your connection and provide opportunities for meaningful conversation.
Explore Your City: Be tourists in your own town. Visit local museums, parks, or landmarks you've never seen. Discovering new places together can reignite a sense of adventure.
Shared Hobbies: Engage in a hobby that your partner loves, or discover a new one together. Whether it's cooking a new recipe, gardening, or painting, shared creative endeavors can deepen your bond.
Learning Experiences: Attend a workshop or class together—be it a cooking class, dance lesson, or a lecture on a topic of interest. Learning side by side can be both fun and enlightening.
Volunteer Together: Spend the day contributing to a cause you both care about. Volunteering can provide a sense of shared purpose and fulfillment.
Prioritizing Connection Over Convention
The essence of a successful "date day" lies in prioritizing genuine connection over adhering to traditional norms. By intentionally choosing activities that foster closeness and understanding, you honor the spirit of Father's Day in a way that resonates deeply with your unique relationship.
As we celebrate the fathers and father figures in our lives, let's embrace the opportunity to create meaningful experiences that reflect our appreciation and love. After all, it's these shared moments of joy and discovery that truly strengthen the bonds we hold dear.
But what if time away feels impossible?
If the thought of stepping away for a few hours—let alone an entire date day—feels impossible because of your child's sleep struggles, you're not alone. Many parents feel trapped by unpredictable naps, bedtime battles, and night wakings that make any kind of break seem out of reach. If this resonates with you, I want you to know that there is hope. Teaching your child to sleep well isn’t just about them—it’s about giving your whole family the rest and freedom you deserve. If you're ready to create a solid sleep foundation that allows you to reconnect with your partner (and yourself), I'm here to help. Let's talk.
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.
Alternative Methods to Cry It Out
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, Pinterest 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!
You Are Not Alone: Navigating the Emotional Struggles of Sleep Deprivation
You’re Not Alone: The Sleep Deprivation Struggle Is Real
Let’s be real—running on fumes and trying to keep a tiny human alive is no joke.
If you’re up night after night, rocking, bouncing, or doing whatever it takes to get your little one back to sleep, I see you. It’s exhausting. It’s overwhelming. And it can make you feel like you’re failing.
But here’s the truth: You’re not failing. You’re just sleep-deprived.
Sleep Struggles Don’t Mean You’re a Bad Mom
I’ve worked with enough families to know that sleep challenges are normal. They don’t mean you’re doing something wrong or that your child is doomed to be a “bad sleeper”. Some kids just need a little extra help figuring out this whole "sleep" thing. And guess what? That’s okay.
What’s not okay? Beating yourself up over it. Thinking you have to “tough it out” alone.
The Emotional Toll Is Real
When sleep deprivation takes over, the thoughts hit hard:
“I’m failing as a mom.”
“Why is this so easy for other parents?”
“I love my baby, but I’m so drained that now I feel resentful.”
“I don’t tell anyone because I don’t want to be judged.”
“My partner and I are fighting about sleep, and it’s making everything worse.”
Sound familiar? That’s because sleep deprivation doesn’t just mess with your energy levels—it messes with everything!
it messes with your mind,
It messes with your emotions,
it messes with your relationships.
And pretending “you’re fine” when you are not….That’s not the answer.
You Deserve Rest, Too
Here’s the thing: asking for help isn’t weakness. It’s smart.
Sleep coaching isn’t just about getting your child to sleep better—it’s about helping you feel like yourself again.
So if you’re in the thick of it, running on empty and wondering if things will ever get better—know this:
You are not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out on your own, either.
Let’s get your family sleeping again. You deserve it.
Ready to reclaim your evenings? Let’s connect.
Please know that I do NOT advocate the "cry-it-out" method. As a certified Gentle Sleep Coach, I emphasize a guilt-free and gentle sleep coaching process that respects your child's developmental needs.
Let’s work together to restore peaceful nights for your family. Contact me today and I’ll be in touch within 24 hours with information on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
Join the "Sleep is Bliss Tribe"
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 Training Tips for Daycare Parents
My child attends daycare, so scheduling isn't completely in my control. Can I still sleep train?
The good news is, yes, you absolutely can!
Understanding Your Child's Unique Daycare Sleep Situation
First, I want to acknowledge the challenges that come with having a child in daycare. Your daily schedule may not be entirely within your control, and you might feel unsure about how to coordinate sleep training with the daycare routine. Of course, there is the other end of the spectrum where your child is NOT sleeping. These struggles prevent you from being ready for your child to even begin daycare. At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I understand that each family’s situation is unique, and my goal is to create a sleep plan that works for you and your child’s specific needs whether that’s daycare, nanny, family member caregiver or a mix of it all.
Customized Sleep Plans for Daycare Children
One of the key elements of our sleep coaching packages is the personalized approach we take. We review and analyze every child’s unique sleep case history and customize the sleep report and recommendations based on each case. This means that we consider your child’s daycare schedule, the routines they follow there, and how we can best integrate sleep training into your family's daily life.
This client’s goal was to have her child sleeping well before starting daycare. Maternity Leave Goal Achieved!
Effective Communication with Daycare for Sleep Success
Effective communication with your child's daycare providers is essential. We encourage you to share your sleep coaching plan with them and discuss how they can support your child's sleep needs. Many daycare providers are open to working with parents to create a consistent sleep environment. We can provide you with tips and strategies to help communicate your child’s sleep plan effectively.
Things to look for when choosing a daycare & Sleep Questions for daycare checklist for parents
If you are looking for childcare options and not sure where to start? Want some tips? Check out this Blog Article All Things Childcare where I interview with childcare specialist Shannon Parola.
Creating Sleep Consistency at Home for Daycare Kids
While your child may have a different schedule at daycare, it's important to create consistency at home. We will work together to establish a bedtime routine and sleep environment that remains consistent, regardless of the daycare schedule. This consistency helps your child understand that sleep routines are predictable and comforting, which can improve their ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Flexible Sleep Plans for Varied Daycare Schedules
Our sleep coaching plans are designed to be flexible and adaptable. We understand that daycare schedules can vary and that occasional disruptions are inevitable. By incorporating flexibility into our approach, we can help your child develop healthy sleep habits that can withstand the occasional changes in routine. We focus on building a strong foundation for sleep that can adapt to different environments and schedules.
Optimizing Daycare Nap Schedules for Better Sleep
Daycare nap schedules may not always align perfectly with your ideal plan, but that doesn’t mean sleep training won’t work. We’ll assess the nap schedule at daycare and find ways to optimize your child's sleep both during the day and at night. By coordinating naps at daycare with the sleep training plan, we can help your child get the rest they need while maintaining the overall sleep goals.
Ongoing Support for Daycare Parents' Sleep Training Journey
At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, I provide ongoing support and guidance to help you navigate any challenges that arise. Whether it's troubleshooting nap transitions, adjusting to changes in the daycare routine, or offering reassurance and encouragement, I am here for you every step of the way. My goal is to empower you with the tools and confidence to support your child's sleep journey, even in the context of daycare.
Yes, you can absolutely sleep train your child even if they attend daycare. At Blissful Baby Sleep Coaching, we specialize in creating customized, flexible sleep plans that take into account your child’s unique schedule and needs. By working together and communicating effectively with your daycare providers, we can help your child develop healthy sleep habits that will benefit them both at home and in daycare. Remember, with the right support and strategies, restful nights are within reach for your family.
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!
“I’m Afraid to Sleep Coach… What If It’s a Total Disaster?”
Let’s be real for a second.
The idea of sleep coaching probably sounds a little terrifying.
Your brain is throwing out all the worst-case scenarios:
💭 “What if my baby screams all night?”
💭 “What if she NEVER sleeps without me?”
💭 “What if this totally backfires and we end up even more exhausted?”
I get it. And if that’s where you are right now, take a deep breath.
You are NOT alone in this.
I recently had a convo with a mom who felt exactly like you do. She loved co-sleeping (when it worked) but was running on fumes because she was the only one who could get her baby back to sleep. She was completely drained and honestly, she couldn’t see HOW to solve the problem and have it be a happy ending without drama or fear of doing “cry-it-out.”
So let’s walk through that same conversation—because if she had these fears, I know a lot of you do, too.
Step 1: Let’s Acknowledge the Fear
If you’ve never done this before, why wouldn’t you be nervous?
This is a big change. And big changes can feel scary.
Here’s what I don’t do:
❌ I don’t leave you to “figure it out” alone.
❌ I don’t expect you to go cold turkey.
❌ I don’t do harsh, cry-it-out methods.
Here’s what I do instead:
✅ I create a step-by-step, personalized plan for your family.
✅ I walk you through every stage, so you always know what’s coming next.
✅ I stay right there with you so you feel supported the whole way through.
Bottom line? You’re not going into this blind.
Step 2: “What Do I Have to Do to Be Successful?” I’m already exhausted and can't do anymore “to-dos” to my days.
This is such a common concern. And honestly? It’s valid.
You’re already running on fumes and you don't even have time to do the basics in life (laundry, taking a shower, household chores) and now I’m telling you to add sleep coaching to your plate? Sounds impossible, right?
Here’s the thing: preparing for sleep coaching doesn’t mean doing MORE. It means making small, smart changes that make things easier.
Here’s where to start:
1. Tiny Tweaks Now = A Smoother Transition Later
You don’t have to wait until “night one” of coaching to start shifting things.
Try these super simple adjustments NOW to make sleep coaching easier when the time comes:
👉 Identify your child’s right sleep window – Paying attention to age-appropriate sleep cues so bedtime routine is smoother
👉 Introduce a comfort item (if age-appropriate) – Something your child can start associating with sleep, like a safe lovey.
👉 Shift your role gradually – If co-sleeping, try lying next to your child without touching for a few minutes before they fall asleep.
These are tiny shifts. No pressure. No stress. But they start laying the groundwork for bigger changes.
2. If You’re Exhausted, Who’s Taking the Lead?
Listen, I know a lot of moms assume they have to do the coaching. But guess what? If you’ve got a partner, they might actually be the better coach.
Why? Because if your baby is glued to you (nursing, co-sleeping, wanting mom 24/7), they’re naturally going to protest more when YOU try to change things.
Sometimes, having dad (or another caregiver) take over bedtime makes everything go smoother—because baby doesn’t expect nursing or rocking from the “non-crutching partner”.
🚨 If you’re bone-tired, consider having your partner lead the coaching while you step back.
It’s not a magic fix, but it can make night one way easier.
3. Pick a Start Date That Doesn’t Set You Up for Failure
Timing matters. If you’re moving, traveling, or juggling way too much, now might not be the best time to dive in.
Look for a window where you have at least two solid weeks to focus on sleep. That way, you’re not throwing yourself into chaos on top of everything else.
What Happens on Night One?
Okay, so what actually happens when we start?
Here’s the quick and dirty version:
🛏 You’re not abandoning your baby. You’ll be right next to the crib/bed, supporting them the whole time and can offer verbal and physical comfort.
📉 First few nights = small steps of identifying your child’s unique settling and and soothing tactics. Your child is figuring things out, and it takes about 3-5 nights to build the skills to pick up momentum.
💡 Your job is to be their regulator. If they get frustrated, you’re there to help them calm down—but NOT to crutch them to sleep.
Think of it like teaching your kid to ride a bike. You don’t just throw them on and hope for the best. You hold on, guide them, and help them gain confidence until they’re riding on their own.
Same thing with sleep.
What About Crying?
Let’s rip the Band-Aid off: yes, there might be some protesting which is the form of frustration (not “abandonment tears” because you are NEXT TO YOUR CHILD so don’t worry, your child will not feel abandoned.
But here’s what I tell every family: Crying doesn’t always mean distress. It often just means “Hey, I don’t like this new thing!”
There are 5 reasons kids cry during sleep coaching:
1️⃣ They’re overtired (we fix this with the right bedtime).
2️⃣ They’re overstimulated (we fix this by keeping things calm and simple).
3️⃣ They’re in a power struggle (we avoid this by setting clear, predictable routines).
4️⃣ They’re frustrated/confused (this is where the learning happens!).
5️⃣ They have an unmet need (we always meet needs before sleep).
The goal isn’t to “stop” crying—it’s to minimize unnecessary tears and help your baby develop independent sleep skills.
What If I’m Still on the Fence?
I get it.
Letting go of co-sleeping or rocking to sleep can feel HUGE—especially if it’s been your go-to for months (or years).
But here’s what I see over and over from families I work with:
💡 Their baby learns faster than they expected.
💡 They realize they actually get MORE connection (because they’re now a well-rested family!).
💡 They can finally see a path forward that doesn’t feel like a never-ending cycle of exhaustion.
One mom I worked with, Hannah, was deep in the co-sleeping, nursing-to-sleep trenches. She thought there was no way her baby would sleep alone.
Now? Her baby sleeps 11+ hour stretches in his own crib, and everyone is so much happier.
This isn’t about forcing change. It’s about teaching new skills, in a way that works for your family.
Ready to Sleep Again? Let’s Do This.
If you’re thinking, “Okay, I kinda-sorta-maybe want to try this, but I still have questions,”—that’s what I’m here for.
Let’s start with an easy first step, schedule a Sleep Strategy Session so me, you and your partner can have an 1 hr long zoom session so I can properly assess the sleep situation and determine if you need one-on-one sleep coaching support.
Let’s get your baby sleeping—and get YOU your sanity back.
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!
Happy Mother’s Day—yes, even if today feels messy
Today’s not about routines.
It’s not about milestones.
It’s not even about sleep (gasp—I said it!).
Today is about you.
The you who shows up when it’s hard.
The you who juggles snack times, meltdowns, and middle-of-the-night wakeups like an Olympic-level ninja.
The you who sometimes doubts herself, but still keeps going.
From one mama to another: Happy Mother’s Day.
You are seen. You are needed. You are enough.
If today looks like messy buns, cold coffee, and Legos underfoot—just know: you’re still crushing it.
If today feels tender because you’re grieving, exhausted, or stretched too thin—just know: you’re still worthy of celebration.
And if your little one isn’t sleeping great right now (or, let’s be honest, ever), here’s a gentle reminder:
You’re not doing anything wrong. You’re just running on empty—and you deserve rest, too.
No advice. No pressure. Just a big, warm, soul-deep thank you.
For loving your kids so fiercely.
For being their safe place.
For doing the invisible work that nobody claps for—but that changes lives.
To celebrate YOU, I’m giving away my #1 International Best Selling Book:
When I decided to team up with 25 leading experts in the fields of sleep, nutrition, mindset, and more to create the book I set a goal to reach 100,000 moms with this accurate and reliable information.
Why? Because I believe this book can change mom’s lives.
Your copy of THE ONE THING EVERY MOM NEEDS TO KNOW is available now, click below and receive this #1 International Best Seller. Download available May 11-15th.
And I also want you to have the audio chapter on Baby Sleep Skills available today.
This chapter is devoted to unpacking how restful sleep originates not from having a ‘good baby’ or a ‘fussy baby’…but from acquiring the skills of sleep.
Skills you can teach your child— which will last a lifetime.
This gift is my way of saying THANK YOU for trusting me to be part of your family’s sleep journey.
Wishing you rest, joy, and a moment to exhale today
Happy Mother’s Day.
May you feel seen, cherished, and—please, oh please—get a nap today.
With love, grace, and always cheering for you,
Joanna
Wait... Is It Time to Ditch the Crib?
Is It Time for the Big Kid Bed? Here’s How to Know (and What to Do Next)
Transitioning your child to a big kid bed is a major milestone — and if you're feeling a mix of excitement and low-key dread, you’re not alone.
I’ve coached so many families through this exact phase, and what I’ve learned is this: timing really matters. Not just for your child’s sleep, but for your sanity too.
So before you start Googling beds or rearranging the nursery, let’s take a step back and talk about how to know your child is truly ready — and how to make the switch without chaos, power struggles, or 3 a.m. hallway visits.
👀 First... What’s Driving This Transition?
There’s often pressure to make the switch early — and not all of it comes from your child. It can look like:
“My friend’s toddler moved at 2 — are we behind?”
“My mom says we should’ve done this months ago.”
“My older kid made the switch super easy — why is this one different?”
Here’s the thing: every child is different.
Your second is not your first.
Your niece is not your daughter.
And timelines that work for other families might not work for yours.
It’s not about comparison. It’s about readiness.
And No — Crib Climbing Doesn’t Automatically Mean It’s Time
Let’s clear up one of the biggest myths I hear:
“She’s climbing out of the crib, so it’s time for a bed, right?”
Not necessarily.
In most cases, crib climbing has more to do with a new motor skill milestone than sleep readiness. Translation? Your child isn’t trying to escape — they’re trying to practice.
So what can you do? Let them climb! Give them time during the day to explore and burn off that new physical energy. Because if you don’t… guess when they’ll do it?
Yep. At bedtime.
➡️ Want more on this? Read: Do You Have a Crib Climber?
So... When Is the Right Time?
Great question. Most kids are ready to transition between ages 3 and 4 — but age alone isn't the deciding factor.
Make sure your child has rock solid sleep skills both at bedtime and middle of night. Meaning, they do not sleep support to go to sleep or back to sleep.
If your child still “needs you” at bedtime or middle of night, they are NOT READY to take on the responsibility of being in a big kid bed. Sleep Training may be needed first (let’s talk to help your kiddo learn independent sleep skills).
Here’s what I encourage parents to look for:
✅ An understanding of time (like morning vs. nighttime)
✅ An ability to follow boundaries and rules (even if they test them)
✅ A basic grasp of consequences (“If I get out of bed, Mom comes in… not worth it”)
If your child is also potty training, a bed can support that next level of independence. But again — readiness, not rushing, is the name of the game.
How to Make the Transition Smooth (and Honestly, Kinda Fun)
Okay, so your child is ready. Here’s how to keep this transition from becoming a sleep sabotage:
✅ Lock Down the First 7 Days- This is where most behaviors pop up — testing boundaries, leaving the bed, calling out. Totally normal! But what matters is how you respond. Create a simple, consistent strategy so your child knows what to expect — and trust me, they will rise to meet it.
✅ Plan Ahead- Mark it on the calendar. Talk about it in advance. Let your child help pick out sheets or a special bedtime buddy for their new bed.
✅ Role Play- Practice bedtime routines and staying in bed with a stuffed animal. Make it playful! This helps set expectations before the first night arrives.
You’re Not Alone in This
This milestone can bring up big emotions — for your child and for you. It’s okay to feel unsure. That’s why I’m here.
If you’re wondering whether your child is ready, or if bedtime has become one big standoff... let’s talk. Together, we can create a sleep plan that feels good, honors your child’s development, and helps everyone get the rest they need.
You're doing a beautiful job — and your little one is growing in all the best ways.
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.
Alternative Methods to Cry It Out
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, Pinterest 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!
Celebrating the Wins: The Power of Acknowledging Your Progress
One of my favorite parts of the sleep coaching journey is our celebration call. This is a time to pause, look back at the path you’ve traveled, and truly acknowledge how far you’ve come. When we first meet, families are often overwhelmed, sleep-deprived, and unsure of the way forward.
Fast forward 2-3 weeks, and the transformation is incredible. It’s a shift from chaos to calm, from exhaustion to empowerment, and from surviving to thriving.
Why is this so important to celebrate?
Research tells us that recognizing progress is a powerful motivator for future success. When you reflect on the hurdles you’ve overcome, it strengthens your belief in your ability to tackle whatever lies ahead.
By creating a “united front” as parents, you’re not just solving sleep challenges—you’re building a foundation for resilience, teamwork, and confidence.
Look at the below studies:
Strengthens Teamwork- Celebrating achievements is an important opportunity to fortify what is working, to strengthen team relationships, and to create positive momentum. LSA Global
Improves Emotional Connection- Celebrating small wins can boost your mood and improve confidence in your accomplishments, keeping you motivated as you pursue a larger goal. Harvard Summer
Boosts Motivation- Recognizing small successes activates the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine, which reinforces positive behavior and enhances motivation. Read Article : Psychology Today
During our celebration call, we cover the following:
What did life look like before sleep coaching?
What felt impossible?
Together, we recount the steps you took, the challenges you overcame
We celebrate all the victories along the way
What is possible now that was not possible 2-3 weeks ago
Time for yourself in the evenings, planned a date-night, or finally enjoyed uninterrupted sleep,
A family life has transformed—and that’s worth celebrating
It’s not just about celebrating that your baby now sleeps through the night (although that’s a huge win!); it’s about honoring the teamwork, consistency, and commitment that made it happen.
Keep Healthy Sleep Habits for Life!
Celebrating doesn’t mean the journey ends. Parenting is an ever-evolving experience, and new milestones will emerge. On the celebration call, we look ahead to what’s next based on your baby’s age and developmental stage. Whether it’s transitioning from two naps to one, handling the “big kid bed” switch, or navigating sleep regressions tied to exciting milestones like walking or talking, you’ll be ready.
This forward-looking approach equips you with tools and strategies for the future, ensuring you feel confident no matter what comes your way.
Taking time to celebrate isn’t just about feeling good in the moment. It reinforces the idea that challenges are surmountable. As parents, you’ve proven that with the right plan, support, and perseverance, you can achieve amazing things. This mindset carries forward into other areas of your life, reminding you that you’re capable, resourceful, and a strong team.
Sleep coaching isn’t just about sleep; it’s about creating space for your family to thrive. As you enjoy the benefits of well-rested nights and calm routines, new possibilities open up. Vacations, babysitters, and even quiet evenings become part of your reality—things that might have seemed impossible just a few weeks ago.
So let’s celebrate. Pop the champagne, do a happy dance, or simply enjoy the quiet. This is your moment to savor how far you’ve come and prepare for the amazing journey ahead.
Are you struggling with your child’s sleep? Wondering if I can help?
Please know that I do NOT advocate the "cry-it-out" method. As a certified Gentle Sleep Coach, I emphasize a guilt-free and gentle sleep coaching process that respects your child's developmental needs.
Let’s work together to restore peaceful nights for your family. Contact me today and I’ll be in touch within 24 hours with information on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
Join the "Sleep is Bliss Tribe"
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.