Infant sleep challenges

Difficulties with your child’s sleep can be one of the most challenging aspects of parenting. Parents often hear advice from a range of sources who no doubt mean well, but often include strategies which are difficult to implement or go against the natural biology of the baby. Unfortunately there are many myths when it comes to baby and toddler sleep which are common in casual and professional advice, but often exacerbate sleep problems in children.

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The "Possums approach" to sleep takes a cued-care approach, emphasising parental values, and focusing on the biological sleep regulators. Evidence has shown it reduces parent-child nighttime conflict and improves family sleep overall. The Possums approach aims to make nighttimes easier, and the daytime more enjoyable. It does NOT involve any “controlled crying/cry it out” methods.

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As an NDC Practitioner trained in the “Possums Programs”, Marlo will be able to problem-solve the difficulties you are having with your child’s sleep. She will teach you about the biological regulators of sleep, to allow you to trust that your baby will take the sleep they need without you “teaching” them to sleep/self-settle, or needing to focus on tired-signs or awake times. The aim is to allow you to enjoy your day with your child without focus on their sleep, which in turn will make the nights easier, with time. This approach is likely quite different to what you have previously learnt about baby sleep.

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There is further information about the Possums Sleep Program/Neuroprotective Developmental Care on  the NDC Institute website. If you are needing further assistance and personalised strategies to address your particular challenges, please book an appointment.