Frequently Asked Questions

No.  I'm not trained in these strategies and I do not believe they are necessary.  I only recommend methods that are attachment focused and that feel right for the needs and goals of each individual family. My preference is for continued and responsive parental presence throughout any adaptation of existing sleep rituals; particularly when children are unaccustomed to sleeping alone. This transition requires patience and sensitivity.

I am a keen advocate of both. Bed sharing, baby wearing, extended breast feeding, tandem breastfeeding and elimination communication are things I have practiced with all 4 of my children.  However, 15yrs ago many thought my ideas were a bit woo woo!!  Thankfully these parenting philosophies are starting to be embraced by a broader population.

If you're feeling unsure, why not simply go with an initial consultation.  You can always upgrade to ongoing Distance support or even an in-home consultation if you need to.

Alternatively, free to drop me an email outlining your situation and your aims and I can let you know the level of service that is most likely to help you achieve your goals.

info@katiesbabies.com.

Absolutely. What better way to relax and reconnect after a busy day. A boost in your Oxytocin levels (the hormone of love and connection), will be good for you both in your readiness for sleep.

No. I will offer you recommendations for the timings of naps, bedtimes, etc, but these are flexible and may well change anyway, once you tell me how your baby responds.  Please understand it is biologically normal for your baby to have slight variations in sleep needs from day to day.   In most cases the best routines are the ones that emerge over time, once mum and baby's needs are addressed. I believe that schedules written by a stranger, for a 'typical' baby, simply set people up to feel like they're failing.  

Please see my hints and tips videos. I made a video on this one ;)

Only if you enjoy staying at home! A social life is so important for your mental health. We'll figure out how to work naps into your ideal routine. Whether these need to happen in the stroller, the car, a sling or even on the beach...I'm easy!

Not really.  Babies are quick to develop their expectations of different people. For example, breast feeding babies don't expect milk off anyone else than Mum.  If Grandma loves to rock your baby to sleep now and then, just let it go. Especially if they both love it. We all know Grandma's job is to spoil us rotten!

No.... life will always throw up random events! Unexpected guests or the occasional, surprise bedtime poo!! I usually suggest aiming for an approximate bedtime but its totally ok to just roll with it if you want to. Some people LOVE routines, but others hate them. I get that. I'm here to work alongside you, not to boss you around!
 

No. If your baby's getting a good amount of sleep across 24 hrs and they're happy and feeding well, then however long the naps are, they're doing just fine.  Don't waste precious hours resettling when you could be living life instead! 

Yes you must!  Parents need to be parented too. It won't be a problem. I can help you work it in around your baby's evening rhythm.