How to find the best sleep consultant for your family's needs

In the world of parenting, one of the 'badges' of pride seems to be a good night's sleep. For parents, the quest for sleep can feel like an unending, painful journey. It's amidst this exhausted haze that the expertise of the right sleep consultant becomes invaluable. But how do you know who the right sleep coach is amongst the many options on Google?

When answering the question of how to find the right sleep coach,or sleep training programme- the answer is pretty simple. Find the sleep consultant who has the right qualifications, and who you gel with the most. I believe that a sleep coaching programme will never be successful if your sleep coach doesn't stop and listen to what you're saying, as well as what your unspoken thoughts are subconsciously telling them.

In the world of the sleep consultant, qualifications are as varied as the sleep patterns of the babies and children they aim to assist. In Dubai, where I am currently based,  the search for a capable, qualified sleep coach is hugely daunting for parents. Especially sleep deprived parents. Type into Google 'sleep consultant near me', and literally hundreds of options arise. Even worse, most paediatric sleep coaches work digitally now, so having a sleep coach near you doesn't often matter anymore, which in turn opens up the search to find the best sleep coach in Dubai, or worldwide, even harder.

So how do you decide? First and foremost, let's acknowledge the fundamental interplay between feeding and sleep. The symbiotic relationship between these two aspects of infant care can't be overstated. A reputable sleep consultant should possess a profound understanding of infant feeding dynamics, recognising how nutrition impacts sleep patterns and vice versa. Whether it's breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a blend of both (combi-feeding), weaning or weaned, an expert understanding of feeding methods and their implications on sleep, and the mother inant dyad is non-negotiable. This is partially why I decided to become a lactation consultant (IBCLC) as well as a sleep coach.

Secondly, the ideal sleep consultant isn't just an expert in sleep solutions but a multidisciplinary expert and team player, equipped with qualifications extending beyond sleep. I find my background in paediatric and neonatal nursing, coupled with accreditations in maternal health, helps me to have a  comprehensive understanding of the needs of both mother and child, as well as the wider family unit. Specialisations in colic, reflux, and allergies further qualify me to navigate the most difficult of sleep challenges with knowledge and empathy. A network of trusted professionals is vital, as some sleep challenges can require other health professionals opinions and input.

Yet, beyond credentials and network, lies the fundamental aspect of education, and the ability to impart knowledge to others. In my opinion, the hallmark of an exceptional sleep consultant isn't just the ability to implement standard strategies, but their commitment to empowering parents with knowledge, to adapt these strategies to their very individual needs. Sustainable sleep solutions depend upon an informed understanding of infant sleep cycles, developmental milestones, effective sleep hygiene practices and, perhaps most importantly, how the family dynamic affects any given sleep training 'method'. A good paediatric sleep consultant prioritises education and equips parents with the tools to navigate sleep changes and hurdles long after their time together has finished.

So, how do you decide on the best paediatric sleep consultant for your family? How do you start to shortlist who could be the the right fit amidst the many child sleep coaches trying to get your attention? Start by checking out their credentials, ensuring they possess the requisite expertise you need for your individual situation. look at testimonials and references, finding out how the sleep coach addresses diverse and difficult sleep challenges. Never underestimate the value of rapport; the right dynamic and relationship with your sleep consultant can make all the difference in your journey towards meeting your goals.

The process to find the best sleep consultant can feel complex, especially if you haven't found the right one! From understanding the intrinsic link between feeding and sleep to prioritising education and empathy, finding the best sleep training programme for your family can take time. So, as you start the search for the best paediatric sleep consultant for you, take your time, ask the right questions, and always keep the lines of communication open with whomever you choose to guide you.

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