Self-care has always been hugely important to me and is the reason I started my sleep training business. How can you take care of everyone around you if you aren’t taking care of yourself? It’s the best thing you can do for yourself, your family, and your work life. Believe me, your kids will be grateful for the extra patience and connection they get when YOUR bucket is filled up.
As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to recharge and reflect on what truly matters. Health is usually at the top of New Year’s resolutions, with goals like signing up for a gym membership, committing to Dry January, or tackling Whole30. But one thing that’s often missing? Prioritizing quality sleep. Let’s change that because sleep is the foundation of good health and happiness.
A Good Night’s Sleep IS Self-Care
One of my favorite ways to practice self-care is taking a walk while listening to podcasts. Lately, I’ve been diving into episodes about the dangers of multitasking, manifesting goals, and even celebrity interviews. There’s been one consistent theme across the board: the vital importance of sleep. As a pediatric sleep consultant, I can’t help but get a little excited when I hear that because, well, sleep is kinda my thing.
Not only is sleep the cornerstone of self-care and good health, but it’s an absolute must for emotional balance, physical well-being, and overall happiness. Keeping your child’s sleep on track (or improving it—I can help with that!) is essential. Bonus? When your little one sleeps well, you’ll gain those precious hours of uninterrupted time in the evenings—time you can use for self-care, connecting with your partner, or simply relaxing.
Emotional and Physical Health Benefits of Sleep
I could talk for hours about the science behind sleep, but here’s what matters most: when your kids (and you) are getting enough rest, incredible things happen. Here are just a few benefits:
Boosts memory
Regulates emotions
Reduces stress
Strengthens the immune system
Processes and consolidates learning
See? Sleep is like magic for your brain and body. If I could give you one piece of advice as we kick off 2025, it would be this: honor your kids’ (and your own) sleep needs. To help you get started, here are my top four tips for building healthy sleep habits.
4 Tips for Healthy Sleep Habits
1. Watch the Waking Hours
Make sure your child is staying awake just the right amount of time between naps. One of the biggest enemies of sleep—especially for babies and toddlers—is overtiredness. Pay attention to their sleep cues, but don’t forget to keep an eye on the clock too. Use this handy guide for appropriate wake windows based on age:
2. Create a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Kids thrive on routines, and a predictable bedtime sequence signals their brain that it’s time to wind down. Keep it simple: bath, pajamas, a story, and a lullaby can work wonders.
3. Make the Sleep Environment Ideal
A cool, dark, and quiet room is the recipe for great sleep. Consider blackout curtains, a white noise machine, and comfortable sleepwear to set the stage for success.
4. Prioritize Your Sleep Too
Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing your own rest isn’t selfish; it’s essential. When you’re well-rested, you’re more patient, energetic, and ready to tackle whatever parenthood throws your way.
Ready to Transform Your Family’s Sleep in 2025?
If your family’s current sleep situation feels unsustainable, I’m here to help. You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s work together to create a plan that works for your family and brings peace to your nights.
Book a discovery call today, and let’s make 2025 the year your whole family sleeps soundly.