I’ve tried sleep training before, and it didn’t work. What makes sleep consultant support different from sleep training on my own?

Sleep training shouldn’t be a one-size fits all, generic plan. You need an individualized plan tailored to your child and family’s specific situation and needs. There are many sleep training methods out there, and a certified sleep consultant has the knowledge to help you choose the method that provides the starting point and the pace that is right for you. The ongoing coaching and support that a sleep consultant offers keeps you on track and encourages the necessary adjustments to see success.

What is a good age to start sleep training?

You can teach healthy sleep habits and “sleep shaping” from birth, but from ages 0-3 months there should not be any attempts at controlled crying or sleep training. Once your baby is out of the “fourth trimester”, or over 4 months of age, you can begin formal sleep training. And no matter how old your toddler, preschooler, or child is—it is never too late to start teaching your child independent sleep!

Does sleep training require night weaning?

Sleep training and night weaning are not synonymous. You can teach your baby independent sleep skills and still give your baby a feed or two overnight, if the circumstances require it, or if that is your personal wish!

Will sleep training harm my baby?

Some parents fear that allowing their baby to cry will be harmful. The is a myth, and there is no research to support this theory. When sleep training, you are not abandoning your baby by any means or leaving them alone to wonder where you are. While implementing sleep training, your baby will still know that they are safe in your care and supported by your loving presence; you are also simply setting and holding boundaries about what sleep looks like in your home. Sleep training actually leads to better health for your baby—your little one will be happy and healthy, and you will be well rested and therefore able to respond to and engage with your baby and form healthy attachment bonds.

Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay for a sleep consultant?

Yes, you can directly use your Health Savings Account card to pay sleep consultant fees, or you can pay for the services and apply for reimbursement through your Flexible Spending Account. Using these pre-tax funds helps make sleep consulting more affordable!