Sleep is not Linear
lbenjell • January 26, 2022
For most, the decision to sleep train stems from the lack of predictability in their children’s sleep. They are tired of the multiple night wakes and would really love to see their babes get more consolidated sleep. And so they expect that once they sleep train, it’s like taking a treatment, and their baby will sleep the same way every day after that, without any effort or consistency after the training period. They also expect that once a win is acquired, like baby slept through one night, that baby can do that every night thereafter. Unfortunately this is not the case. While the effort you put in in setting up a healthy sleep foundation for your baby will give you predictability, a baby that is well rested and can sleep on their own, it will not guarantee that your baby will sleep every night the same way. Because let’s face it, your baby is not a robot and will certainly experience days and nights that will feel and look different.
Much of children’s development is not linear
Just because your baby took their first step today doesn't mean they will be walking all the way to the bedroom tomorrow and then running a marathon the next day (exaggerate much?). In reality, they might take their first step days, even weeks before they are actually considered to be “walking”. The same holds true for sleep: just because they have done it once does not mean that this is the new normal. They need time to practice and perfect the skill.
It takes time and practice to change habits
During sleep training, many babies will see major improvements to their sleep for a few nights in a row. For some kiddos, this is enough time for them to learn the skill of self settling and will be able to do that every night from then on. but for most kids, 2 or 3 days is just not enough time for them to learn a new skill or undo a habit that they have had for the last 4, 6, 12 or 24 months. They say it takes 21 days to break a habit so why should we expect less of our children? Why should we expect them to master a skill in just 2 days when it takes us so much longer to learn anything? If they have shown great progress in the first few days, this shows us that they are capable and that we can be confident in their ability to change. If they experience a setback, we just have to give them more support and more opportunities to practice and know that they can do this with time.
It takes consistency and lifestyle changes to maintain the wins
On my wrap up call with my families and clients, I often tell them that they have successfully taken the first step in their lifestyle transformation. This is because sleep training is not a one and done thing. It is not a pill you take to fix sleep. It is a change in your and your babe’s lifestyle. it is your decision to put sleep first. This means that once you are done sleep training, you can’t stop offering naps or early bedtime. It does however mean that your baby is now getting all the sleep they need and that they don't need you to fall asleep so they are more flexible. You can now follow the 80/20 rule where we try to follow their schedule for 80% of the time so we can be a little more flexible for 20% of the time. But for the majority of the time, you are putting their sleep first.
Sleep needs and patterns change over time
It is important to remember also that sleep needs are not static. As the weeks, months and years go by, baby grows and develops. And so do his or her sleep needs. They might need slightly bigger awake windows, to drop a nap or to make bedtime a little later. They might also be teething or feeling unwell which will undoubtedly impact sleep. They will learn new things and become more aware of their environment which will require us to change strategy. Or they might travel or go through daylight savings time, wreaking havoc in their schedule. As you can see, life happens to our babies too and because of that, we can’t expect everyday and every night to look the same for them. I know my nights don’t always look the same.
Babies are not robots, much like we do, they may off some "off" days
So you can see here that our little ones are very much like us. With external and internal things that affect us physically and mentally and this in turn impacts sleep and other processes. Our babies may be tiny humans but they are humans, they are not robots and cannot be programmed to replicate every night the same way.
There’s something magical about a beach holiday — the sound of waves, salty air, and the promise of slow days in the sun. But let’s be honest: traveling to the beach with a baby isn’t exactly a vacation unless sleep is part of the equation. Whether you're heading to a resort, renting a seaside villa, or visiting family by the coast, here’s how to set your baby up for restful sleep — so everyone gets to enjoy that ocean breeze. Step 1: Know That Sleep Needs Don’t Take a Holiday Babies are creatures of habit. Their little bodies thrive on rhythm and predictability — even on vacation. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun or go with the flow! It just means that your baby’s sleep needs are still there, and the better prepared you are, the easier it will be to keep things (mostly) on track. Step 2: Your Beach Baby Sleep Packing List Here’s your ultimate baby sleep packing list for a beach trip, broken down by category: Sleep Environment Essentials : Portable travel crib or bassinet – Choose one your baby is already familiar with if possible. Fitted sheets – Bring 2-3 just in case of sand, spills or spit-up. Also bring a gently used one to remind baby of home as he/she adjusts to the new sleep environment. Portable blackout blinds – Beach homes and rentals often have light, sheer curtains. White noise machine or app – Helps block out unfamiliar sounds like waves (yes, they can be loud!) or street noise. Baby monitor (if you’ll be in a larger space or stepping outside during naps). For more on the ideal sleep environment, have a read here . Comfort + Routine : Lovey or comfort object (if age-appropriate and safe for sleep). Sleep sack – Choose a breathable, summer-weight one. Favorite bedtime book – Familiarity brings comfort. Pacifiers – Always bring extras! Nightlight – A soft, warm one if needed for feeds or changes during the night. Weather + Climate Considerations : Lightweight, breathable pajamas – Think cotton or bamboo Fan – If your rental lacks good airflow or AC Bonus Tip: Have a “Nap-on-the-Go” Kit **For beach days that cut into nap time: Clip-on stroller fan Stroller or baby carrier your baby can sleep in Portable white noise machine Extra sun hats + baby-safe sunscreen (for after 6 months old) Step 3: Keep the Routine (Even on the Coast) Try to mirror your bedtime routine as closely as you can. If you usually do bath → PJs → book → feed → sleep, stick with it — even if it’s a quick version. Babies love the predictability, and it helps signal that it’s time to wind down, even in a new environment. Also, aim for naps in a darkened room when possible, especially after a stimulating beach outing. And if one nap has to happen in the stroller under a palm tree? That’s totally okay. Just go back to the routine as soon as you can. Getting There: Travel Day Tips Time your departure around naps if possible Use familiar sleep items (like the sleep sack or pacifier) during flights or drives Offer extra feeds — travel is dehydrating, especially in hot weather Keep expectations flexible – sleep may not be perfect, and that’s fine Beach trips with a baby can be full of joyful memories and restful nights — as long as you plan for sleep. With the right gear and mindset, your little one can stay well-rested and content, giving you more time to soak up the sun (or at least drink your coffee while it’s still warm!). And remember: sleep doesn’t have to fall apart just because you’re away from home. If you ever feel stuck or unsure about how to adjust things before, during, or after a trip, I’m here to help you build a personalized plan that fits your family’s travel style. Book your discovery call here .
October is SIDS Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It’s a time to educate parents and caregivers on safe sleep practices that can reduce the risk and help protect our little ones.. At Hushabye, safety is at the heart of our brand. Our focus is on providing parents with safe and high-quality baby sleepwear, such as sleep bags, that offer a safer alternative to traditional blankets. What is a baby sleep bag? A baby sleep bag, also known as a wearable blanket or sleep sack, is a specially designed garment for infants and young children to wear during sleep. The primary purpose of a sleep bag is to keep the baby warm and comfortable, but it also serves as a safe and convenient alternative to traditional blankets and quilts in a crib or cot.
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, sleep often takes a back seat to other priorities. Yet, the importance of sleep for mental health cannot be overstated, especially for parents and their children. From infancy through adulthood, sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining emotional stability, cognitive function, and overall well-being. Let’s delve into the intricate relationship between sleep and mental health, exploring its significance for both parents and kids. Understanding Sleep: The Foundation of Mental Health Sleep is not merely a passive state of rest; it's a dynamic process that facilitates vital functions for physical and mental health. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories, processes emotions, and regulates various physiological processes. For children, especially infants and toddlers, sleep is paramount for healthy growth and development. It's during sleep that their brains form crucial neural connections, essential for learning and behavior regulation. Sleep and Parental Mental Health For parents, particularly those with young children, sleep deprivation is often a common occurrence. The demands of caring for a newborn or attending to the needs of a growing child can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to chronic sleep deficits. This chronic sleep deprivation can take a toll on parental mental health in several ways: Increased Stress and Anxiety : Sleep-deprived parents often experience heightened stress levels and anxiety. The constant fatigue and inability to get adequate rest can exacerbate feelings of overwhelm and tension. Impaired Cognitive Function : Lack of sleep impairs cognitive function, making it difficult for parents to concentrate, make decisions, and problem-solve effectively. This can further contribute to feelings of inadequacy and frustration. Mood Disorders : Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to an increased risk of mood disorders such as depression and irritability. Parents may find themselves more prone to mood swings and emotional instability, impacting their ability to nurture a positive environment for their children. Strained Relationships : Sleep deprivation can strain relationships, leading to conflicts and communication breakdowns between partners. This can create additional stressors, further exacerbating mental health challenges. Sleep and Child Mental Health Just as sleep is crucial for parental well-being, it's equally essential for children's mental health and development. Adequate sleep is associated with numerous benefits for children, including: Emotional Regulation : Sufficient sleep plays a vital role in emotional regulation, helping children manage their feelings and behaviors effectively. Children who get enough sleep are often more resilient to stress and less prone to mood disturbances. Cognitive Development : Sleep is essential for cognitive development in children, as it supports learning, memory consolidation, and problem-solving skills. A well-rested child is better equipped to succeed academically and socially. Behavioral Health : Sleep disturbances in children are closely linked to behavioral problems such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and aggression. Establishing healthy sleep habits early on can significantly reduce the risk of such issues. Reduced Risk of Mental Health Disorders : Research suggests that inadequate sleep during childhood is associated with an increased risk of mental health disorders later in life, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Strategies for Promoting Healthy Sleep Given the critical role of sleep in mental health for both parents and children, it's essential to prioritize sleep hygiene and establish healthy sleep habits. Here are some strategies to promote better sleep: Consistent Bedtime Routine: Establish a consistent bedtime routine for both parents and children. A calming bedtime routine signals to the body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Create a Sleep-Conducive Environment: Ensure that the bedroom environment is conducive to sleep . This includes keeping the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Limit Screen Time: Minimize screen time, especially before bedtime, as exposure to screens can interfere with melatonin production and disrupt sleep patterns. Encourage Physical Activity: Regular physical activity during the day can promote better sleep at night. Encourage children to engage in active play and ensure that parents incorporate exercise into their daily routine as well. Healthy Sleep Associations: Help children develop healthy sleep associations by associating bedtime with soothing activities such as reading or gentle music. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Teach children and parents relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or guided imagery to promote relaxation and stress relief before bedtime. Seek Professional Help When Needed: If sleep problems persist despite implementing these strategies, seek guidance from a healthcare professional or sleep specialist. You can always schedule a discovery call with me to discuss whether working with me will help your little one get a better night sleep. For parents and children alike, prioritizing sleep is essential for maintaining emotional well-being, cognitive function, and overall health. By recognizing the importance of sleep and implementing strategies to promote healthy sleep habits, parents can nurture a positive sleep environment for themselves and their children, laying the foundation for a lifetime of mental wellness.