What does a pediatric sleep consultant do?

A pediatric sleep consultant is a person who helps parents teach their babies and toddlers the skill of independent sleeping. Unfortunately this isn’t a skill all babies are born with. If you’re wondering “How can I get my baby to sleep through the night?,” a baby sleep consultant can help teach you and your baby these skill in a certain time period. 

How does a baby sleep consultant work with parents? 

While sleep consultants can do their work in person/overnight or virtual, I provide exclusively virtual support. The first step is a conversation with the family about the current status of sleep with the baby/toddler. Is your baby not sleeping at all? Is your baby having trouble feeding through the night? Is there a time your baby consistently wakes up?

Then, I use that information to develop a personalized plan for the parents so you can implement it. During this time you will have access to me for questions on sleep training methods, feedback on the process, and more. 

Do you offer in person consultants? 

Yes and no. All my packages are virtual support, but I do offer an in-home visit for local clients in the DMV area for the Toddler Tune-Up and the Toddler Comprehensive Sleep Package. I find this visit is very helpful for toddlers.

You are based in Washington, DC. Do you help clients in other states? 

Yes! My support is all virtual, so I am willing and able to help out parents anywhere!

When should I start sleep training my baby? 

Usually sleep training can start around 4 months of age. However, before you start any baby sleep training, you will want approval from your pediatrician. We want to make sure your baby is gaining enough weight and able to sleep through the night without needing to feed, as an example. 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, it’s typical by 4 months old, your baby is able to reach this threshold and self soothe. Self soothing is key to a successful sleep training program. While it’s expected that a baby of this age will wake up during the night, it’s crucial they can self-soothe and put themselves back to sleep! 

It’s also important to start sleep training when YOU, the parent are ready! Implementing a new routine is a commitment and your baby will learn best with consistent teaching. 

How much does a pediatric sleep consultant cost? 

It all depends. Sleep consultants usually have different packages, based on your and your baby's needs. Factors that affect costs include the type and length of support, age of child etc. Typically, my packages range from $400-$1000. Contact me today to discuss your specific needs!

What should I look for in a pediatric sleep consultant? 

Great question! Most importantly, you should feel comfortable with the pediatric sleep consultant. During  an introduction call, make sure you are thorough with your questions. This is your opportunity to ask about their sleep training techniques, how they want to communicate, and more. It’s so important for both parties, consultant and client, to be clear on their expectations up front. Also, to note, the job of the pediatric sleep consultant is to make sure you stay on track with the plan, pivot if need be, and help you reach the goal of independent sleep. There may be some tough nights but think of your consultant as your cheerleader. 

Why do I need a baby sleep consultant? 

Some parents are blessed to have good sleepers or be able to sleep train on their own. Others, for one reason or another, need help or encouragement and may not have great sleepers. That is where a pediatric sleep consultant comes in. Think of it this way. There are some people who are self-motivated to do 100 burpees to get in shape, but others may have to pay a trainer. The important thing is you are creating a healthy environment for you and your baby to get the sleep you need! 

Contact me today for a consultation so we can discuss you and your baby’s unique sleep training needs.