A sleep nanny or baby sleep consultant is a professional who specialises in helping parents and families establish healthy sleep habits for their infants and young children. The sleep nanny provides guidance, education, and support to parents who are struggling with their sleep training and child’s sleep patterns or experiencing difficulties with bedtime routines, night waking, or nap schedules. The role of a sleep nanny or baby sleep consultant typically involves:

1. Assessment: The consultant will assess the child’s current sleep patterns, including their bedtime routine, sleep environment, and any specific challenges or concerns raised by the parents.

2. Customised Sleep Plan: Based on the assessment, the sleep nanny will develop a customized sleep plan tailored to the child’s age, development, and the parents’ preferences. This plan may include strategies for establishing consistent sleep routines, promoting healthy sleep associations, and addressing any sleep disruptions.

3. Education and Guidance: The consultant will educate parents about the importance of sleep, age-appropriate sleep needs, and strategies for promoting healthy sleep habits. They may also provide information on sleep safety guidelines, sleep regressions, and developmental milestones that can impact sleep.

4. Support and Coaching: Throughout the process, the sleep nanny will provide ongoing support and guidance to parents, helping them implement the sleep plan and navigate any challenges or setbacks they may encounter. This support is often offered through phone consultations, emails, or in-person visits.

5. Follow-Up: Sleep consultants typically offer follow-up sessions to assess progress, make adjustments to the sleep plan if necessary, and provide additional support as needed.

It’s important to note that there are different approaches and philosophies within the field of sleep consulting, so it’s essential to find a consultant whose methods align with your parenting style and values. Some consultants may emphasize gentle techniques, while others may take a more structured or behavioral approach.

Overall, the goal of a sleep nanny or baby sleep consultant is to help parents and families establish healthy sleep habits for their children, leading to improved sleep quality for the entire family.