The One Piece of Sleep Research Every Parent Should Read

As a Norland Nanny, a sleep consultant, and, most importantly, a mummy myself, I’ve seen firsthand how much of an impact sleep (or lack of it!) can have on little ones and their families. Whether you’re juggling work, home life, or simply navigating the challenges of parenthood, sleep is a cornerstone of wellbeing, and it's so easy for it to slip through the cracks.

One thing I’ve noticed throughout my years of working with families and children all over the world is that sleep is often misunderstood, and it’s something many parents wish they had more guidance on. That’s why I want to share with you the one piece of research I wish all parents had read, as it could be a game changer in how we approach our little ones' sleep needs.

The Research I Wish Every Parent Knew:

According to the National Sleep Foundation, babies aged 4-12 months need 12-16 hours of sleep, including naps, to support healthy development. That’s a lot of sleep, isn’t it? But here’s the thing—when babies don’t get enough sleep, it doesn’t just affect their mood. It impacts their growth, their ability to learn, and even their immune system. This is why sleep isn’t just about making sure our babies are well-rested for the next day; it’s about ensuring they’re thriving and developing as they should be.

Even more crucial than the hours of sleep itself is how the sleep is structured. Research shows that having a consistent sleep routine is one of the key factors that promotes good-quality sleep. And let me tell you, creating a solid sleep routine isn't just for babies—it’s for all of us. When little ones know what to expect, their bodies and minds feel safe and secure, which naturally leads to better sleep. The same principle applies to us as parents—when we have consistency and structure around sleep, it makes all the difference.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re struggling with your little one’s sleep or feeling like you’re in a never-ending cycle of trying to get them to settle, you’re not alone. It can be overwhelming, especially when we’re sleep-deprived ourselves. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

I’ve worked with countless families who have felt trapped in sleep battles. One of the things that consistently works is creating a sleep routine—not just any routine, but one that fits your family’s needs and makes everyone feel supported. It doesn’t matter if you're a working mum, a stay-at-home mum, or a mum who has a Norland Nanny (although that would be lovely for all of us, wouldn't it?).

Your Child’s Sleep Doesn’t Have to Be a Mystery:

The good news is, sleep is something that can be taught. And you can absolutely create a sleep routine that works for your family, no matter how chaotic life may feel. There’s no need to figure this out on your own.

That’s why I’m here—to help parents like you understand how sleep works for little ones and how to make it work in your home. Together, we can create a plan that makes everyone’s nights (and days!) a little easier.

Let’s Chat

If you’d like to learn more or talk through your baby’s sleep and settling challenges, I offer a free, no-obligation call. It’s a chance to share what’s happening and explore how I can support you and your family. Click here to book your free call today!

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