New parents are tired, overwhelmed, and receiving advice from all different areas. Hiring a sleep consultant can help eliminate the mental clutter and chaos and help you get on and stay on the road to good sleep. But what does this even look like? Let’s explore this topic so that you can make an informed decision on whether or not a sleep consultant would be the best fit for you.

What Does a Sleep Consultant Do?

The journey begins with an initial consultation, usually done over the phone or via video call. During this session, the sleep consultant will ask you a series of questions to understand your child’s sleep patterns, behaviors, and any concerns you might have. A good sleep consultant will really listen and allow parents to vent and express their frustrations. This is a crucial step, as it allows the consultant to tailor their advice and strategies to your specific needs.

What is a Sleep Plan?

Based on the information gathered during the consultation, the sleep consultant will craft a customized Sleep Plan, or as I call it, a “Slumber Plan”. This Slumber Plan is a comprehensive guide that includes:

• Sleep Environment: Recommendations on how to optimize your child’s sleep environment, such as room temperature, lighting, and noise levels.
  Bedtime Routine: Step-by-step instructions on creating a consistent and calming bedtime routine.
• Sleep Schedule: A detailed schedule outlining optimal nap times and bedtime to ensure your child is getting the right amount of sleep for their age.
• Sleep Training Methods: Depending on your child’s age and your parenting style, the plan will include gentle sleep training methods designed to teach your child how to fall asleep independently and stay asleep through the night.

How Do I Implement the Sleep Plan?

One of the most significant benefits of working with a sleep consultant is the ongoing support. Implementing a new sleep routine can be challenging, and having someone to guide you through the process can make a world of difference. This support often includes:

• Regular check-ins: I will check in with parents first thing in the morning, again in the afternoon, and right before bed to discuss progress, address any challenges, and make adjustments to the plan as needed.
• Text & Email Support: Access your sleep consultant via email for quick questions or concerns. I am available from 7 AM – 9:00 PM for any sleep questions.
• Encouragement and Motivation: Sometimes, just having someone to cheer you on and reassure you that you’re on the right track can be incredibly helpful.

No plan is perfect from the start, and sleep consultants understand that flexibility is key. As you begin to implement the Sleep Plan, you might encounter unexpected challenges or find that certain strategies aren’t working as well as you’d hoped. Your sleep consultant will work with you to troubleshoot these issues and make necessary adjustments to ensure you continue moving towards better sleep.

Is It Worth It to Hire a Sleep Consultant?

The benefits are many and you will be glad you did! Here is what you can expect:

• Improved Sleep Quality: A well-rested child is generally happier and healthier. Improved sleep can also enhance cognitive development and emotional regulation.
• Reduced Stress: Knowing you have a professional to guide you through sleep challenges can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. Parents get their time together back and strengthen their relationship.
• Personalized Advice: Unlike generic sleep advice, a sleep consultant provides personalized strategies tailored to your child’s unique needs and your family’s lifestyle.
• Long-Term Success: By teaching your child healthy sleep habits now, you’re setting the foundation for a lifetime of good sleep. It’s never too late to start!

In summary, a sleep consultant does much more than provide generic sleep advice. They listen to your concerns, create a personalized Sleep Plan, offer ongoing support, and help you navigate any challenges that arise. If you’re struggling with your child’s sleep and feeling overwhelmed by the conflicting advice out there, hiring a sleep consultant might be the solution you need to get your family back on track to restful nights and happier days.

I would love to help!