Should I Hire a Sleep Consultant?
If you’re considering hiring a sleep consultant, you are likely struggling with sleep and ready to make some changes. But is hiring a sleep consultant worth it? And how do you decide who to hire? Continue reading for more about:
What does a sleep consultant do?
Are sleep consultants worth it?
How do I find the right sleep consultant for my family?
What Does a Sleep Consultant Do?
Sleep consultants should have extensive training in the science of sleep and the effectiveness of various sleep training methods. A sleep consultant should be well-versed in many different sleep training methods and should be able to communicate to their clients effectively about those options. Sleep consultants write individualized sleep plans for their clients based on the child’s age and the family’s current sleep struggles and goals. The sleep plan should be tailored to meet the parenting styles and needs of their clients, and should include age-appropriate scheduling, sleep training recommendations, and various healthy sleep support strategies. The sleep consultant will hold a virtual or in-person meeting with their client to discuss the sleep plan, go over any questions, and coach implementation of the plan. The consultant will typically offer some form of coaching or support as the client implements the plan.
Are Sleep Consultants Worth It?
Those who hire sleep consultants often say that the results are priceless. Many parents express the sentiment that you truly cannot put a price on healthy sleep and feeling a weight lift from their shoulders as they finally get the help they have so desperately needed. Some parents have tried sleep training before on their own and were disappointed to find that they didn’t experience the results they expected, but having the expertise and ongoing support and coaching that a sleep consultant offers made all the difference! If the cost is a barrier, shop around, because there is a wide range in what different consultants will charge. You can also use your HSA or FSA to pay for your sleep consultant; the pre-tax funds make paying for this service more affordable.
How Do I Find the Right Sleep Consultant for My Family?
There are many sleep consultants out there, so how do you chose the right one? First of all, sleep consulting is not a regulated industry, and anyone can call themselves a sleep consultant. Always look for one who has the title “Certified Pediatric Consultant” and can prove that they have undergone training and a certification program.
Next, you will want to look for a consultant who conveys an approach that is child/baby-centered and able to be customized to your family’s needs and wishes. Some sleep consultants have a specific method that they follow that is very rigid, inflexible, and is more centered around the consultant’s goals and desire to get results that what the baby or child actually needs. A good sleep consultant will have a holistic approach and look at sleep as a part of your child’s whole day. They will take many factors into account when developing a sleep plan for your child, including nutrition, physical and motor development, sensory needs, social/emotional factors, and even mindfulness integration.
Finally, a good sleep consultant will be open to speaking with you about their process and answer all of your questions prior to asking you for a payment. The sleep consultant you work with should be honest and straightforward about their process and let you know exactly what you can expect if you choose to work together.
Summit Slumber is one sleep consulting practice that is proud to offer customized, flexible, supportive, and holistic sleep support under the expert guidance of a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant. You can schedule a Discovery Call to chat openly about your sleep struggles and have all your questions about the process answered, without having to make a commitment until you feel ready.
