Sleep and Sanity: Recent Episodes
Michele DiSpirito
The Sleep and Sanity Podcast is for the parent that craves structure and predictability but struggles to find either with their child's sleep or within parenthood at all. In each episode, I share encouragement, practical sleep tips, and advocate for good mental health to improve your family's sleep and save your sanity.
If you love to travel, it doesn’t need to stop once you have children for fear of poor sleep! If you have a great sleeper at home, it’s possible to have a good one while away! With these tips and expectations, your trip can be a wonderful experience (though, maybe not necessarily deemed a “vacation”)
You don’t want to miss:
- How to prepare for travels with children
- What to take with you to ensure the best sleep possible
- How to handle sleep disturbances
PLUS, what “rules” to stick to and the ones you can be flexible with while away!
Links and resources:
- SlumberPod: Use code GOODNIGHTFAMILIES20 for $20 off!
- Download the free Travel + Sleep Checklist here
- Podcast Episode 19: Sleep Cues, Wake Windows, or Set Schedule?
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Sickness can happen any time of year, of course, but we’re in the throes of the worst time of year for it. I know when you have a great sleeper (or even a mediocre sleeper), the worry of their sleep being wrecked is real. Or, if you’re not worried it’ll be wrecked, you may be wondering how to go about it when they either want more or less of it. So, today’s episode is going to give you all you need to know about how to handle your child’s sleep while they’re sick.
You don’t want to miss:
- How to manage daytime sleep
- What to do when you need to keep a close eye on your child at night
- How to get back on track once your child is better
PLUS, a few products that can help your child sleep better when congested!
Links and resources:
- Free quiz: Find your child's ideal nap time(s)
- WebMD article: OTC decongestants don’t work (new study finds)
- Product links: cool mist humidifier, Nose Frida, chest rub, kid-safe Edens Garden essential oils
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- Want to work with me? Let’s chat! or you can check out what I offer here!
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
- It’s good to know that none of these are rules, just recommendations. When littles are sick, survival mode kicks in and sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do so everyone makes it through! And that’s ok!!
- And, as always, this is not intended to diagnose, prescribe, or prevent any illness and in no way should it replace the guidance and recommendations given by your child’s doctor!
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
I don’t know a parent that loves Daylight Saving Time, but it’s coming to an end again on November 5, 2023! For those of you who want to adjust your child’s schedule with the time change, today I’m sharing a few ways you can go about it!
You don’t want to miss:
- How to get ahead of the game with Daylight Saving Time
- The gradual way to adjust your child’s schedule with the time change
- When it’d be appropriate to do a partial adjustment
PLUS, find out who’s a great candidate for skipping the change altogether!
Links and resources:
- Free download: Routine Cards
- Episode 30: 5 Causes and Fixes for Early Morning Wake-Ups
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- Want to work with me? Let’s chat! or you can check out what I offer here!
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
When the inevitable bad dream or nightmare interrupts your child’s sleep (or if the less common night terror happens), it’s good to know how to handle it while also prioritizing great sleep. It is possible to comfort your child without bringing them to your bed (unless that’s what you want! That’s ok, too!) If you want some tried and true strategies to help your child feel heard and comforted without sacrificing independent sleep, this episode is for you!
You don’t want to miss:
- The differences between a bad dream, nightmare, and night terror
- How to prevent their occurrence
- How to intervene
Links and resources:
- Free Download: Routine cards and chart
- Episode 42: Are you afraid of the dark? Dealing with bedtime fears
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- Want to work with me? Let’s chat! or you can check out what I offer here!
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
The fear of the dark is a common one among children and it can definitely hinder their sleep. As parents/caregivers, it’s our privilege to help our children work through their fears with support and encouragement.
You don’t want to miss:
- How to tell if your child is actually afraid of the dark or of something else (or just stalling)
- Ways to prevent the fear from developing (as best as you can prevent something like that)
- 7 practical ways to help your child truly overcome their fears and how to help them and get sleep in the meantime
Links and resources:
- Free Download: Routine cards and chart
- Free Download: Ideal Sleep Environment Guide
- Blog post: All About Nightmares and Night Terrors
- Nightlight links: Hatch or a salt lamp
- Shines red flashlight link
- The book “Uncle Lightfoot Flip that Switch”
- Want to work with me? Let’s chat! or you can check out what I offer here!
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Sleep regressions are inevitable - no matter how great of a sleeper you have, but you don’t have to just suffer through them! Today is a throwback episode where I share how to handle a sleep regression and when you’ll know if it’s more than just a regression.
You don’t want to miss:
- The 5 top ways to get you through any sleep regression.
- How to build an age-appropriate schedule.
- How to potentially shorten a regression.
PLUS, how to tell whether you’re facing a sleep regression or a sleep problem!
Links and resources:
- Download my free guide: Your Nap Transition and Sleep Regression Survival Guide
- Blog post: 5 Tips to Ease Sleep Regression Struggles
- Blog post with a link to download the room checklist: Creating the Perfect Sleep Environment
- Find your child's wake windows here!
- Want to work with me? Let’s chat! or you can check out what I offer here!
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Life with a newborn is exhausting whether you’re a sleep consultant or not, but there are a few things I’ve done knowing what I know to make this season a little less tiring. Some of these things might take you by surprise!
You don’t want to miss:
- 3 things I’ve done to help everyone get more sleep
- How these newborn days are different from the previous ones from my first two kids
- My thoughts on bedsharing and nursing to sleep 🫣
PLUS, why I’m not stressing about not having a strict schedule or plan!
Links and resources:
- Download the FREE Newborn Cheatsheet!
- The Newborn Sleep Guide and Newborn Sleep Support!
- La Leche League: Safe Sleep Seven Bed-sharing Safely
- Want to work with me? Let’s chat! or you can check out what I offer here!
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Hear the story of how Fletcher, our third child and third son, was born! This is the third time I used the nurse-midwives at our somewhat local hospital for an unmedicated hospital birth! I also share a few things I’ve learned after 3 unmedicated hospital births as well as a few things I would change if I were to do it over.
Links and resources:
- The Newborn Sleep Guide
- Newborn Sleep Support
- Want to work with me? Let’s chat! or you can check out what I offer here!
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Having a completely dark space to sleep in is crucial to great sleep. Creating that completely blacked-out space isn’t hard, but there are a few ways to go about it!
You don’t want to miss:
- The reason your children (and you!) need a completely dark space to sleep in
- A few ways (inexpensive and not-so-inexpensive ways) to blackout the bedroom
- How to make your blackout solution look good from the outside and the inside!
PLUS… Other areas to consider in the room that brings in light.
Links and resources:
- Free Download: The “Perfect” Sleep Environment Checklist
- Podcast episode: All About Melatonin
- Podcast episode: How to Prevent and Stop Crib Climbing
- Podcast episode: All About the SlumberPod
- Links to products:
- Window Static Cling
- Blackout EZ Covers (affiliate link)
- Blackout Paper Shades
- SlumberPod and HomeBase (use code GOODNIGHTFAMILIES20 for $20 off)
-
Indow Window Sleep Panels
-
Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
You can’t make it through the newborn days without a few spit-up mishaps, but what do you do when those “mishaps” become consistent and interfere with sleep?? Today I’m sharing how to help your baby with reflux (minimal or severe) get the sleep they can despite the discomfort.
You don’t want to miss:
- The 3 types of reflux and the one that’s most common
- When to see/talk to your child’s pediatrician
- Practical ways to help your baby get to sleep without aggravating their reflux.
PLUS… The best way for YOU to get some sleep!
Links and resources:
- The Newborn Sleep Guide
- Free Download: Newborn Cheatsheet
- Podcast Episode 18: How to Settle a Fussy Newborn
- Newborn Support
- The study referenced in the episode: Effect of nonnutritive sucking on infant gastroesophageal reflux
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- Check out my website for more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
You can’t make it through the newborn days without a few spit-up mishaps, but what do you do when those “mishaps” become consistent and interfere with sleep?? Today I’m sharing how to help your baby with reflux (minimal or severe) get the sleep they can despite the discomfort.
You don’t want to miss:
- The 3 types of reflux and the one that’s most common
- When to see/talk to your child’s pediatrician
- Practical ways to help your baby get to sleep without aggravating their reflux.
PLUS… The best way for YOU to get some sleep!
Links and resources:
- The Newborn Sleep Guide
- Free Download: Newborn Cheatsheet
- Podcast Episode 18: How to Settle a Fussy Newborn
- Newborn Support
- The study referenced in the episode: Effect of nonnutritive sucking on infant gastroesophageal reflux
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- Check out my website for more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Babies are not exempt from struggling with “bedtime battles”, they just present themselves differently. There are a few common causes of babies fighting their bedtime routine and this episode digs into those as well as how to overcome them.
You don’t want to miss:
- The 2 main causes for babies struggling through their bedtime routine
- How to help your baby overcome their bedtime struggles
- Questions to ask yourself to find the root cause(s)
Links and resources:
- Free Quick Quiz: Find your child’s ideal nap schedule
- Podcast episode: Importance of bedtime routines
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Babies are not exempt from struggling with “bedtime battles”, they just present themselves differently. There are a few common causes of babies fighting their bedtime routine and this episode digs into those as well as how to overcome them.
You don’t want to miss:
- The 2 main causes for babies struggling through their bedtime routine
- How to help your baby overcome their bedtime struggles
- Questions to ask yourself to find the root cause(s)
Links and resources:
- Free Quick Quiz: Find your child’s ideal nap schedule
- Podcast episode: Importance of bedtime routines
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Some children hold on to their naps until age 5! Though I don’t personally know what it’s like to have a child still napping at that age… I do have some tips for those of you who do and you’re struggling with preschool or kindergarten interfering with the said nap.
You don’t want to miss:
- Learn how much sleep your child needs
- 3 options to help ensure your child gets the sleep they need
- Find out what to do if all else fails [spoiler: EARLY BEDTIME]
Links and resources:
- Free Download: Routine cards and chart
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Some children hold on to their naps until age 5! Though I don’t personally know what it’s like to have a child still napping at that age… I do have some tips for those of you who do and you’re struggling with preschool or kindergarten interfering with the said nap.
You don’t want to miss:
- Learn how much sleep your child needs
- 3 options to help ensure your child gets the sleep they need
- Find out what to do if all else fails [spoiler: EARLY BEDTIME]
Links and resources:
- Free Download: Routine cards and chart
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
‘Tis the season for schedules and routines to be refined! If you have a little one that’s starting back to school (or it’s their first time!), daycare, or preschool, this episode will help you keep your sanity at home and prioritize sleep!
You don’t want to miss:
- The 2 biggest things to help your kids get the sleep they need
- How to encourage your children to rest
- Ways to help your children engage with the routines established
Links and resources:
- Free Download: Routine cards and chart
- Podcast episode: Importance of bedtime routines
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
‘Tis the season for schedules and routines to be refined! If you have a little one that’s starting back to school (or it’s their first time!), daycare, or preschool, this episode will help you keep your sanity at home and prioritize sleep!
You don’t want to miss:
- The 2 biggest things to help your kids get the sleep they need
- How to encourage your children to rest
- Ways to help your children engage with the routines established
Links and resources:
- Free Download: Routine cards and chart
- Podcast episode: Importance of bedtime routines
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Baby showers are so fun and new parents often get TONS of things for their newest addition, but… what do you really NEED for your newborn? Today I’m sharing my 3 must-haves for newborn sleep as well as a few other favorite newborn items of mine.
You don’t want to miss:
- Why less is more when it comes to newborn sleep
- The 3 things that will help your newborn sleep well (and why!)
- Thoughts on pricey “gizmos and gadgets”
PLUS, a few of my other favorite newborn items!
Links and resources:
- Free download: Newborn wake windows quick reference
- The Newborn Sleep Guide and Newborn Sleep Support
- Episode 18: How to Settle a Fussy Newborn
- Episode 19: When and How to use Wake Windows, Sleep Cues, and a Set Schedule
- Episode 20: How to Practice Naps in the Crib with a Newborn
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
If your little one is in a “big kid bed” (toddler bed, twin bed, or larger) and they’re consistently getting up when they should be staying put, this episode is for you!
You don’t want to miss:
- Why I don’t recommend a toddler bed.
- The ideal age to transition to a “big kid bed”
- 5 tips to helping your big kid stay in bed that doesn’t involve sleep training
Links and resources:
- Free Download: Toddler Routine Cards + Planner Pages
- Episode 5: Transitioning to a Big Bed
- Episode 25: How to Use a Toddler Clock
- Episode 7: How to Stop Crib Climbing
- Schedule a FREE call
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Want to know what it’s like for a sleep consultant to travel solo with her two young children? Well, today’s episode is a recap of my short trip to visit my sister-in-law with my 5-year-old and 2-year-old sons while Daddy was out of town.
You don’t want to miss:
- How we set up their sleep space while giving them some control
- How we handled the unfamiliar situation of the boys sharing a room
- How I handled bedtime fears from a storm [HINT: not the same way I’d handle it at home!]
PLUS, how I’m crazy and forgot that I have an allergy that sent us home early!
Links and resources:
- Grab your SlumberPod discount! Use code GOODNIGHTFAMILIES20 at checkout for $20 off!
- Free download: Travel Checklist
- Episode 8: All About the SlumberPod
- Episode 23: How to Sleep Well While Traveling with Children
- Episode 25: Toddler Clock How-To
- My favorite Toddler Clock: The Hatch
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Early morning wake-ups happen even among the best of sleepers. But, when they’re happening consistently, it’s time to do some investigating! This episode gives you 5 things to consider when trying to solve your child’s early morning wakings.
You don’t want to miss:
- Learn when early is too early
- The common causes and fixes to early wakings
- Ways to promote long, restful nights of sleep
Links and resources:
- Free Download: The Perfect Sleep Environment Checklist
- Episode 4: Bedtime Routine
- Episode 25: How to Use a Toddler Clock
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave a rating and/or a review? Thank you!!
Here in the States, we’re soon to celebrate our independence, and often that celebration comes with late-night fireworks. Today's episode shares a few tips for how to handle bedtime if you’d like to enjoy that later night of celebration with your little one(s) this 4th of July.
You don’t want to miss:
- How to handle bedtime according to your child’s age
- Ways to make up for the lost sleep
- How to arrange your day and prep your little ones for a late night
PLUS, a little story about our first time taking our oldest to see fireworks!
Links and resources:
- FREE Nap Scheduler Quiz: Find your child’s ideal nap schedule!
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Sometimes it just makes sense to have your children share a room. Other times, it’s the only option. Either way, it can be a little nerve-wracking moving your great sleepers into the same room! But, room-sharing doesn’t have to be at the expense of your children’s sleep - or yours! This episode shares the 5 biggest tips I have for your children to share a room and sleep well!
You don’t want to miss:
- The biggest thing to ensure great sleep for room-sharing kids!
- How to handle bedtime.
- Ways to handle talking, night-wakings, and morning wake-ups.
PLUS, suggestions on how to handle other common struggles with room-sharing
Links and resources:
- Download your free room checklist here!
- Download your free Toddler Routine Cards here!
- Episode 25: Toddler Clock How-To
- My favorite toddler clock: The Hatch!
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
As we spend more time outside in these warmer months, you may be wondering how to get your little one to take their nap outside while you’re at the beach, pool, or park. It may be possible!! Here are 3 tips on how to best manage naps on days you'd like to spend the day outside.
You don’t want to miss:
- What to expect/what ages are most likely to sleep while you’re out.
- How to set up a napping space
- If a nap won’t happen outside, how to adjust the schedule to keep overtiredness away.
PLUS, a little pep talk for you!
Links and resources:
- FREE nap scheduler here!
- Episode 23: Travel + Sleep
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Toddlerhood comes with many struggles, but sleep doesn’t have to be one of them! Today I’m sharing my top 5 tips for helping toddlers get the sleep they need with minimal fuss!
You don’t want to miss:
- Ways to promote great sleep throughout the day
- How to make bedtime go smoother
Links and resources:
- Download the free Toddler Routine Cards + Planner Pages
- Episode 7: How to Prevent + Stop Crib Climbing
- Episode 25: Why You “Need” a Toddler Clock + How to Use It
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
There aren’t many products I encourage parents to buy to help their children sleep (most are just gimmicks and really expensive!), but one of the few products I recommend for every toddler and preschool family is a TODDLER CLOCK!
You don’t want to miss:
- What makes a clock a “toddler” clock
- Why you’d want a toddler clock
- How we use our toddler clocks for our 5- and 2-year-olds
PLUS, how to choose the right toddler clock for your family!
Links and resources:
- Download the free Toddler Routine Cards + Planner Pages
- Video: How to Program the Hatch Toddler Clock
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Life isn’t always predictable nor does it always go as planned. When your child is on a predictable schedule, having a day that doesn’t go according to plan (an “off day”) can be a little triggering (I’ve found for Mom mostly). This episode gives you a framework on how to work around plans that interfere with sleep times and how to make up for any lost sleep.
You don’t want to miss:
- How to prepare for planned off days (doctor’s appointments, for example)
- What to do when the day spontaneously derails
- How to handle sleep disturbances
PLUS, what to do after that off day to get back on track!
Links and resources:
- SlumberPod: Use code GOODNIGHTFAMILIES20 for $20 off!
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
If you love to travel, it doesn’t need to stop once you have children for fear of poor sleep! If you have a great sleeper at home, it’s possible to have a good one while away! With these tips and expectations, your trip can be a wonderful experience (though, maybe not necessarily deemed a “vacation”)
You don’t want to miss:
- How to prepare for travels with children
- What to take with you to ensure the best sleep possible
- How to handle sleep disturbances
PLUS, what “rules” to stick to and the ones you can be flexible with while away!
Links and resources:
- SlumberPod: Use code GOODNIGHTFAMILIES20 for $20 off!
- Download the free Travel + Sleep Checklist here
- Podcast Episode 19: Sleep Cues, Wake Windows, or Set Schedule?
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
The struggle of chronic short naps can be quite frustrating, but they don’t have to be forever! This episode shares how to lengthen those naps!
You don’t want to miss:
- What’s considered a short nap
- 5 causes of short naps and how to correct them
- What to expect when it comes to naps in general.
PLUS, when short naps are OK!
Links and resources:
- Download the free Perfect Sleep Environment Checklist here
- Free Nap Scheduler here
- Free Nap Transitions and Sleep Regressions Guide
- Free Toddler Routine Cards
- Podcast Episode: Sleep Regressions: What they are and when they happen
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Ideally, we’d love to be able to lay our children down for their nap in their crib and they fall asleep. Buuuut, that’s not always the case, especially if the little one isn’t used to sleeping in their crib. In today’s episode, I’m sharing some easy-to-follow tips to help encourage your baby or toddler to nap well in their crib.
You don’t want to miss:
- A few reasons crib naps are encouraged.
- 5 tips to encourage your baby to nap in their crib.
- What to expect when it comes to naps in general.
PLUS, when crib naps aren’t crucial! (HINT: When you deem them “not crucial”)
Links and resources:
- Download the free Perfect Sleep Environment Checklist here
- Free Nap Scheduler here
- Podcast Episode 19: Sleep Cues, Wake Windows, or Set Schedule?
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
It’s never too early to establish great sleep habits and since newborns need a lot of sleep, there are lots of opportunities to implement and practice those habits. In this episode, I’m teaching you how to get your newborn to sleep in their own crib or bassinet.
You don’t want to miss:
- What you really need to be focusing on during the newborn days (HINT: it’s NOT sleep 🤭)
- The only WRONG way to get your baby to sleep
- What to expect when it comes to newborn sleep
PLUS, how to tell when it’s not the best time to work on crib naps!
Links and resources:
- FREE: Newborn Cheatsheet: The 5 S’s + Newborn Wake Windows
- Blog post: How Newborn Sleep is Different than Ours
- Safe Sleep Guidelines: https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/safesleep/index.html
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Getting your newborn, baby, or toddler to nap can be hard enough, but knowing WHEN to get them down for their nap can be just as confusing! Do you follow their sleep cues, wake windows, or do you just make a schedule and stick to it?! In today’s episode, I’m sharing the role of each approach and when it’s ideal to use each!
You don’t want to miss:
- The most common sleep cues and why they’re NOT always the most reliable
- The reason we use wake windows and HOW to make them work for your little one
- WHEN and HOW to create the best clock schedule for your baby or toddler
PLUS, why they're all important!
Links and resources:
- FREE: Nap Scheduler! Find the best schedule for your child with this short quiz
- Blog post: 3 Ways to Help Your Newborn Sleep Well
- Blog post: How to Nap Train (for babies 4 months old and older)
- Blog post: 5 Ways to Encourage Crib Naps
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
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Newborns do a lot of eating, sleeping, and pooping, but occasionally (or more than occasionally), there’s fussing, crying, and general crankiness that happens. It can be hard as Mom or Dad trying to soothe them when you’re not sure what’s actually wrong - if anything. So, in today’s episode, I’m sharing a few ways to help prevent fussiness and then things to do when it happens (because there’s no getting around the occasional fussiness).
You don’t want to miss:
- 3 simple ways to PREVENT fussiness in newborns
- What to assess when fussiness happens
- The 5 things to do when nothing else helps
PLUS, ways to help calm yourself in the midst of the crying!
Links and resources:
-
The Newborn Cheatsheet: Newborn Wake Windows & The 5 S's
-
The Newborn Sleep Guide & Newborn Sleep Support
- Blog Post: 3 Ways to Help Your Newborn Sleep Well
- Blog Post: 3 Things to Focus on with a Newborn
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Night-wakings are the most common sleep struggle parents face with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Often, the advice given by pediatricians is to “cry it out”, but is that going to solve the root problem? In today’s episode, I’m sharing common root causes of children waking in the night and what to do about them (besides just letting them cry)!
You don’t want to miss:
- The TRUTH about night-wakings
- What you can expect from your child at night, depending on their age
- How to set your child up for a successful, full night of sleep
PLUS, the NUMBER ONE thing I ask each family I work with that’s struggling with night-wakings!
Links and resources:
- Freebie! Take the Nap Quiz to find your child’s ideal schedule!
- This episode in Blog form: goodnightfamilies.com/post/night-wakings
- Reference: The 2015 study about how bedtime routines help with sleep (linked)
- Blog Post: Sleep Props + Associations: What they are and how to stop using unhelpful ones
- Blog Post: How to Nap Train: 3 Steps to Long, Restful Naps
- Podcast Episode/Blog Post: What is Sleep Training and is it Right for You?
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Today is my oldest’s 5th birthday! FIVE!! I’m sharing 5 (random) things these 5 years have taught me both as a mother and as a person. (I’ll give you one guess on what the first thing is related to 😉)
Links and resources:
- Download my free guide: Your Nap Transition and Sleep Regression Survival Guide
- The Newborn Sleep Guide or Newborn Sleep Support Packages
- Schedule your free 15-minute Discovery Call HERE
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
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And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please share with a friend, leave me a rating, and/or a review? Thank you!!
Around 3 years old, your toddler/pre-schooler will be showing signs that they’re ready to drop their nap or at least reduce its length significantly. Many parents dread this transition the most, not wanting to lose that 1.5-2 hour break midday. Allow me to introduce to you “Quiet Time”. This time will replace their once needed nap time, giving them the rest and independence they need as well as for you.
You don’t want to miss:
- When this transition typically happens
- The best way to be SURE it’s time to transition - the signs!
- How to make this transition as smooth as possible
PLUS, the benefits of Quiet Time and how to get your little one on board with the idea!
Links and resources:
- Download my free guide: Your Nap Transition and Sleep Regression Survival Guide
- My favorite toddler clock: The Hatch Rest
- Blog Post/Podcast: Nap Transition 3-2
- Blog Post/Podcast: Nap Transition 2-1
- Schedule your free 15-minute Discovery Call HERE
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
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And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please share with a friend, leave me a rating, and/or a review? Thank you!!
By 18-months-old, your toddler will be ready to transition from 2 naps to 1 nap. The signs for this transition can start to show as early as 12 months, but before you take the leap, listen to this episode!
You don’t want to miss:
- When this transition typically happens
- The best way to be SURE it’s time to transition
- How to make this transition as smooth as possible
PLUS, a heads up about what this nap will look like until it’s time to drop it completely!
Links and resources:
- Download my free guide: Your Nap Transition and Sleep Regression Survival Guide
- Find out your perfect nap time!
- Schedule your free 15-minute Discovery Call HERE
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
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And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please share with a friend, leave me a rating, and/or a review? Thank you!!
Within the first year of life, babies transition from roughly 6 naps a day down to 2, and the majority of those nap transitions happen within the first 6 to 8 months! Talk about a whirlwind! Today I’m talking specifically about the transition from 3 naps to 2 naps. You don’t want to miss:
- When the 3 to 2 nap transition happens
- The signs that it’s time to transition
- How to make this transition as smooth as possible!
Links and resources:
- Download my free guide: Your Nap Transition and Sleep Regression Survival Guide
- Take the quiz: Find your ideal nap schedule!
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
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And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
I know no parent that loves Daylight Saving Time, but the springtime one can help those of you that want a later bedtime and morning wake up! For those of you who want to adjust your child’s schedule with the time change, today I’m sharing a few ways you can go about it!
You don’t want to miss:
- How to get ahead of the game with Daylight Saving Time
- The gradual way to adjust your child’s schedule with the time change
- When it’d be appropriate to do a partial adjustment
PLUS, find out who’s a great candidate for skipping the change altogether!
Links and resources:
- Download The DST Spring Ahead Cheatsheet and Screen Grabs!
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
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And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
If your little one isn’t sleeping well, sleep training may be something you’re considering. But, what exactly is sleep training? How do you choose the right sleep training method? How many methods are there?? These questions and more are answered in this episode!
You don’t want to miss:
- What sleep training really is.
- Whether sleep training is right for your family.
- How to choose the best plan for you!
PLUS, ways OTHER THAN SLEEP TRAINING to help your child sleep well!
Links and resources:
- Free Discovery Call if you’re looking for help building a plan and need or want support.
- Nap Scheduler
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Sometimes overtiredness hits - no matter how much you try to prevent it. Today I’m sharing what exactly overtiredness is, the signs, how to overcome it, and ways to prevent it. You don’t want to miss:
- The #1 way to overcome overtiredness
- What to do if you can’t do that number one thing
- The 3 best ways to prevent overtiredness
I think you’ll be surprised by some of the signs!
Links and resources:
- Take the quiz: Find your ideal nap schedule!
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Whether you’re planning a night out for Valentine’s Day, a day date, or just a solo evening out, when you have little ones there’s a little more planning involved. Today I’m sharing how to prep your children and your sitter for your absence. I’ll help you get your thoughts organized so you don’t miss a detail and hopefully ease any anxiety about your child’s sleep while you’re out. [SPOILER: It’s ok if the sitter does things differently] You don’t want to miss: * 4 ways to ease your child’s anxiety about you leaving. * How to prepare the sitter for handling the schedule, routines, and expectations. * What to do if the sitter doesn’t follow the schedule, routines, and expectations.
Links and resources:
- Download the free Babysitter Checklist
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
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Traveling with children can bring enough anxiety on its own, worrying about how well your child will sleep doesn’t need to be a part of it. Today I’m all about the SlumberPod: the best portable blackout solution for your little one that sleeps in a pack-and-play or toddler cot! It’s a total game-changer for traveling with babies and toddlers! You don’t want to miss:
- What a SlumberPod is
- Why it’s safe and effective
- How to introduce it to your child
PLUS, get $20 off your purchase of a SlumberPod with code GOODNIGHTFAMILIES20 at slumberpod.com (affiliate code)*
Links and resources:
- Download my free travel checklist: The Sleep Essentials Travel Checklist
- Helpful blog post: Traveling with Children (and still getting sleep!)
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
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And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
*This is an affiliate code. I get a $10 commission for each purchase made with my code.
Crib climbing is so common and a common reason for moving babies from the crib to a big bed too soon! Today I’m sharing ways to prevent and deter your little climber from scaling the crib. I’ll be focusing on ways to keep your little one in their crib until at least age three, but I know there are times that even with the best efforts, it’s not possible. So, we’ll chat about how to handle an earlier-than-ideal move from the crib to a big bed, as well! You don’t want to miss:
- 4 ways to STOP crib climbing.
- How to PREVENT it [as best as possible!]
- What to do if NOTHING holds back your little one.
Links and resources:
- Download the Toddler Routine Cards and Planner!
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
- Baby gate, door monkey
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
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Sometimes you just want your child to sleep and to sleep now! Today I’m sharing a common remedy, melatonin. I’m sharing what naturally occurring melatonin is and how it affects our bodies along with what studies show about the effects, benefits, and potential side effects of synthetic melatonin when used as a sleep aid for children.
You don’t want to miss:
- The natural way to boost melatonin production
- The common indications and contraindications for melatonin use
- What studies have to say about the effects of melatonin in children
PLUS, find out the possible truth about the bottle of melatonin at your local grocery store!
Links and resources:
- Download The Perfect Sleep Environment Checklist
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
- The episode of Sleep and Sanity: The Importance of Routines and How to Create Them
- Melatonin-rich foods: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5409706/
- How synthetic melatonin works and when not to use it: https://answers.childrenshospital.org/melatonin-for-children/
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health’s review of the 18 studies of melatonin use in children, the 2017 study testing 31 different melatonin supplements for integrity: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/melatonin-what-you-need-to-know
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As soon as you think you’re done with all the transitions, it’s time to move your no-longer-a-baby baby from their crib to a big bed. Today I’m sharing all the ways to make this transition as smooth as possible.
You don’t want to miss:
- The recommended age to transition to a big bed (AND how to keep them in their crib until it's time to transition).
- The 3 steps to make the transition as smooth as possible.
- Ways to prevent your child from getting out of their now easy-to-get-out-of-bed. (HINT: It’s not telling them to stay in it!)
PLUS, what to do if they do get out of their bed!
Links and resources:
- Download my free Toddler Routine Cards + Planner Pages
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please share it with a friend, leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Sleep regressions are inevitable - no matter how great of a sleeper you have! Today I’m sharing what exactly a sleep regression is and when they typically occur. I’ll be focusing on sleep regressions that happen due to rapid developmental growth, but sleep regressions can also occur because of sickness, travel, teething, or any other disrupter to your child’s normal schedule and routine.
You don’t want to miss:
- The common ages sleep regressions occur.
- How long each sleep regression can last.
- The differences between each regression.
PLUS, how to tell whether you’re facing a sleep regression or a sleep problem.!
Links and resources:
- Download my free guide: Your Nap Transition and Sleep Regression Survival Guide
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Sleep regressions are inevitable - no matter how great of a sleeper you have, but you don’t have to just suffer through them! Today I’m sharing how to handle a sleep regression and when you’ll know if it’s more than just a regression.
You don’t want to miss:
- The 3 top ways to get you through any sleep regression.
- How to build an age-appropriate schedule.
- How to potentially shorten a regression.
PLUS, how to tell whether you’re facing a sleep regression or a sleep problem!
Links and resources:
- Download my free guide: Your Nap Transition and Sleep Regression Survival Guide
- Blog post: 3 Tips to Ease Sleep Regression Struggles
- Blog post with a link to download the room checklist: Creating the Perfect Sleep Environment
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
Many people, especially children, thrive on routines! Routines bring comfort because there’s a sense of knowing what’s ahead instead of a lingering fear of the unknown future. Today I’m sharing the many benefits of having routines in place and how to create and start implementing them! I’ll share an example of a bedtime routine and how to adapt that for nap time as well.
You don’t want to miss:
- The 7 benefits of routines for young children
- What research has shown about the link between good sleep and routines
- How to build the ideal routine for your family
PLUS, a tip that may improve bedtime at your house!
Links and resources:
- Download my Free Toddler Routine Cards and Planner Pages
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!
The four-month sleep regression. It likes to sneak up on unsuspecting mothers, sometimes as early as 3 months or as late as 5 months old. It’s a significant sleep regression because of it permanence. Today I’m sharing what makes the 4-month sleep regression different, what about it is permanent, and how to get through it and sleep again.
You don’t want to miss:
- What this regression looks like.
- The number 1 reason the 4-month sleep regression is different than the rest.
- Ways to help get you through it and onto better sleep.
PLUS, ways to encourage your baby to sleep with a few changes to their sleep environment!
Links and resources:
- Download my free guide: Your Nap Transition and Sleep Regression Survival Guide
- Download my free checklist: Creating the Best Sleep Environment Room Checklist
- Schedule your free 15-minute Discovery Call HERE
- Blog post: Why is Newborn Sleep so Different Than Adult Sleep?
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please share with a friend, leave me a rating, and/or a review? Thank you!!
Welcome to The Sleep and Sanity Podcast! I’m so glad you’re here!! I’m Michele DiSpirito, your host, pediatric sleep consultant, and owner of Good Night Families Sleep Consulting. On this podcast, you’ll find encouragement and practical, ready-to-use sleep tips that will save your sanity and improve your family’s sleep.
Today I’m sharing a little about who I am and what brought me to you as your sleep consultant. I’m a former massage therapist turned stay-at-home mom turned work-from-home mom. My two boys under age 5 have given me a lot of “on-the-job training”. I completed 200+ hours of training through The Cradle Coach Academy and continue to add to my knowledge through continuing education, the reading of books and studies about sleep and sleep science, and working with families. I have helped dozens of families one-on-one with the desire to help as many families as possible get the sleep they need.
Be on the lookout for a new podcast every other week (with hopes that I can get one out to you every week!)
Links and resources:
- Download my free guide: Your Nap Transition and Sleep Regression Survival Guide
- Follow me on Instagram: @goodnightfamilies
- For more about me, what I do, what I offer, and more free resources check out my website.
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any sleep tips, sleep science, and encouragement.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, would you please leave me a rating and a review? Thank you!!