Episode Description: If you’ve ever Googled why your child won’t sleep, wondered whether you’ve created a “bad” sleep habit, or felt like bedtime has taken over your entire house, this episode is for you. We’re joined by pediatric sleep consultant Samantha Day for a judgment-free conversation about kids’ sleep at every age, from babies and toddlers to school-aged kids and teenagers. We talk about why sleep is so important for behavior, emotional regulation, learning, and development, plus what parents need to know about sleep training, independent sleep, bedtime battles, night wakings, early rising, regressions, separation anxiety, co-sleeping, screens, teenage sleep, and when a sleep issue could be a red flag. We also get into the part we don’t talk about enough: what happens to parents when no one is sleeping. The exhaustion, anxiety, resentment, relationship stress, and guilt that can come with trying to “fix” your child’s sleep. There is no perfectly executed bedtime in a real family. Whether you have a baby who won’t sleep unless you’re holding them, a preschooler suddenly waking at 5:30 a.m., a school-aged child afraid to sleep alone, or a teenager up all night on their phone, this is an episode to save, share, and come back to through every stage of parenting. Pink Spotlights 💗 Each week, we share something making our week a little bit better, from products we’re loving to small habits, routines, and everyday things bringing us a little joy. T: The famous Lola Blanket. After hearing multiple PIPA guests rave about them, T finally got one as a gift and officially understands the hype. Christina has loved hers for years, and you can use code CHRISTINAT35 for 35% off. Christina: Getting out of the house. When you work from home, work out at home, and can get basically anything delivered, it’s very easy to never leave. Christina has been using preschool drop-off as a reason to stay out, run errands, work somewhere else, and just be out in the world, and it’s been so good for her mood. Samantha: Journaling. Putting pen to paper has become a simple form of self-care and a way for Sam to slow down, clear her head, and take a little time for herself. This is one of those episodes we truly think every parent should hear, because sleep challenges can show up at any stage. If you know a mom or parent navigating bedtime battles, night wakings, early mornings, or simply wondering if they’re doing any of this “right,” send this episode their way. And if you loved this conversation, please take a minute to follow or subscribe to Pretty in Pink Again, rate and review the show, and share it with someone who needs it. Every listen, follow, review, and share helps more parents find these conversations, and we’re so grateful you’re here. 💗 FOLLOW ALONG 💗 To learn more about Samantha, her approach to pediatric sleep, or how to work with her, visit her website where you can also listen to her sleep podcast. Follow Pretty in Pink Again for more conversations about motherhood, friendship, identity, aging, relationships, and figuring out who you are in every new season of life. We're on Instagram @prettyinpinkagain and now on Facebook! You can also find us individually on Instagram at @christinatarabishy and @kristinabontempo. Hey PIPAS! Send us a text for episode feedback, ideas, and questions!
