When I work with clients, it’s not uncommon during our first conversation for parents, especially mothers, to express guilt for not doing things the “right way”. They often tell me that if they had known what to do before they had their baby or shortly thereafter, they would have been able to prevent going down the long road of sleep deprivation and uncertainty.
I always tell these parents that the important thing is that they know now and it’s not too late to make positive changes. In feeling guilty about having tired children, parents often feel reluctant to put a new plan in place because it may temporarily disturb their child’s sleep and that seems unfair to them. I think it is unfair to have new information and not work to improve things. I also understand how hard it can be to make changes by yourself, even if all you are doing is surviving.
Children are resilient. A young baby who has a sleep association such as rocking or sucking to sleep can be taught how to self-soothe in a variety of ways. Some of these ways are very quick and sleep often improves within a few days. Others can be slower and show improvements over the course of a few weeks.
What is the solution for your family? There is no correct answer and I can help you find the one that is the best fit. If you do not attempt to make a change because you fear things will not get better, then they simply will not get better. There can be no change without change.
This is why hiring a sleep consultant can be so invaluable. We can guide and empower you as you make these changes and make sure that you follow through consistently. Change can be difficult and that is why it’s so great to have extra support! I do not judge my clients for what they have been doing and for why their children (and they) are not sleeping well. I focus on how we can make improvements so that everyone can be well-rested and guilt-free—at least when it comes to sleep!
If you would like more information, contact me for a free 15 minute consultation. Let’s get rid of the guilt!