6 Beliefs That Influence Lullabies Sleep Coaching

Since I got into the sleep coaching/sleep training world, I've set aside a specific time each week to focus on reflection, self-development and training. This is definitely a nursing hangover, where reflection is  key to good practice. I am so glad that I've brought this practice over into my sleep coaching business. It benefits both myself and you as it leads to me constantly evaluate and improve what I can offer to help you meet your sleep goals. The last few months has taught me an incredible amount about how business works, the type of sleep coaching/sleep training I want to offer, and the sleep coach I want to be. So just what influences Lullabies Sleep Coaching?

I spent this Monday thinking about and revisiting my core beliefs, whether they'd changed, stayed the same, or evolved. I have no clear answer to which of the 3 has happened, as is always the way with reflective sessions! I'd say they've evolved, as I've brought more of my nursing practice over into my sleep coaching/sleep training practice.

I've popped my core beliefs below for you, as I believe that it's a great way for you to see what I stand for, and how I work.

Firstly: However you get your baby to sleep is not a problem. If you rock them, feed them, co-sleep with them....whatever. Whatever you do that works for you and your family is right. It only becomes a problem when it doesn't fit your families circumstances anymore. That's when you seek help.

Secondly, I believe that it's absolutely ok to want to sleep coach/sleep train your child for YOUR mental health and wellbeing. Not to mention the physical effects of sleep deprivation! There's a reason it's used for torture after all! Society conditions us to put our child's needs and wants before our own. That we're somehow bad parents if we take a moment for ourselves. I do not believe that this is right. You can't pour from an empty cup. Sleep is vital for your child's growth (mental and physical), so why wouldn't it be the same for you?

Third, I believe that knowledge is power. It's a super power to be shared. That's why i write so many blogs on the sleep sanctuary and on my instagram! Once upon a time my job was sharing my knowledge to help new parents look after their premature/sick newborns, or teach other nurses. Now, I get to share all of that knowledge plus my sleep consultant knowledge to help parents look after their well babies/children. Not a lot changes round here huh?!

Four. I believe that you can sleep coach/sleep train your child whilst still being responsive or gentle. Divisive one this one. I believe that you can parent responsively, whilst still looking after your own needs. Find the balance. Gentle parenting doesn't mean permissive parenting. You can gently parent whilst still setting boundaries. You're not doing your health, or your child's health any good by not helping them learn how to sleep. As parents, I believe that it's our job to teach and guide our children. This is one instance where some simply need a bit more help/guidance than others!

Five. I believe it's ok to ask for help. Don't wait until habits are engrained, and you're at your absolute rock bottom. There's no need to suffer. Again, society has conditioned us to believe that parenting is something to be endured a lot of the time (whilst also telling us to enjoy every second, go figure!). Parenting is beautiful. Parenting is the most amazing and wondrous thing that you will possibly ever do. It's also incredibly hard, frustrating at times and draining at others. It's ok to ask for help, especially in today's world where most of us don't have granny or aunty down the street. Use your village. if you don't have one, let me help you create one.

Finally, number six (if you've made it this far, well done!). I believe that consistency is key. Most kids love routine. They can't tell the time, so routine let's them know what to expect, and when to expect it. So use consistency in your routines. They need consistency in actions. It's not fair on them for you to chop and change your mind in how you deal with situations. I know it's hard to be consistent at 3am when you're beyond exhausted (I've been there!), but you need to be. That's where I, as your personal cheerleader, can help. And if you weren't consistent, we explore how to help you be consistent next time.

I can genuinely say that I love being a sleep coach/sleep trainer. It fills my heart when I see a child that was really struggling, do amazingly well in learning the skills help them sleep. They are in better humour throughout the day, their appetite improves, their learning ability improves....it's the best feeling to be able to give everyone a better night's sleep!