How Long 'Til Bedtime? | Sleep and Parenting Podcast

Allison Egidi | Pediatric Sleep Coach
  • 4.9 (56)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—this is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, How Long 'Til Bedtime? delivers real solutions for everything from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, desperately want your evenings back, or just need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, we've got you covered.

  1. 225. Rethinking Bedtime Mantras: When "You Are Safe" Backfires

    5D AGO

    225. Rethinking Bedtime Mantras: When "You Are Safe" Backfires

    Many parents use bedtime mantras to help their child feel calm and secure at night. In theory, it's a beautiful idea—predictable, soothing language meant to support rest. But what if the words we're using are actually doing the opposite? In this episode, Allison explores a bedtime phrase that's become incredibly common—"you are safe"—and explains why, for some children, especially sensitive or anxious ones, this well-intentioned mantra can unintentionally increase bedtime worry. Allison breaks down how a child's brain processes language at bedtime, why timing and repetition matter, and how certain phrases can shift the brain into "monitoring mode" instead of rest mode. She also shares a personal story that illustrates when reassurance is necessary—and when it's better to let the brain settle without added prompts. You'll learn: Why some bedtime mantras can increase anxiety instead of reducing it How a child's brain interprets language right before sleep When reassurance about safety is helpful—and when it isn't Simple, comforting alternatives to common bedtime phrases How small language shifts can make a big difference at bedtime If bedtime has started to feel harder, or your child seems more anxious at night despite a consistent routine, this episode offers a gentle, practical reframe that may help sleep feel easier again. Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube   Looking for expert guidance on your child's sleep? Allison offers two free age-specific guides to help you discover how much sleep kids need to thrive—at any age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

    17 min
  2. 224. Your Child's Sleep Puzzle: Why Some Kids Sleep Easily (and Others Don't)

    JAN 27

    224. Your Child's Sleep Puzzle: Why Some Kids Sleep Easily (and Others Don't)

    Every child is born with a unique sleep puzzle—and understanding that concept can completely change how you approach sleep challenges. In this episode, Allison breaks down why some children seem to sleep effortlessly while others struggle no matter how closely parents follow the "rules." If you've read the books, followed the schedules, tried multiple methods, and still feel stuck, this episode is for you. Allison explains the idea of natural sleep talent and why sensitive sleepers often need a much more precise approach. Through personal stories from her own family—and a powerful real-life coaching example—she shows how even one missing puzzle piece can keep sleep from clicking… and how finding it can change everything almost overnight. This conversation is a reminder that sleep struggles are not a reflection of parenting failure. Some children simply have bigger, more delicate sleep puzzles—and with the right pieces in place, restful nights are absolutely possible. In this episode, we cover: What the "sleep puzzle" really means Why following advice perfectly still doesn't work for some kids Natural sleep talent vs. sensitive sleepers Why regressions, travel, and routine changes hit some children harder How one small shift can lead to major sleep breakthroughs Why you're not doing anything wrong—and never were If this episode resonates, consider sharing it with another parent who may need to hear this message. You're not alone, and your child isn't broken—just beautifully unique. Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube  Give your child the gift of better sleep. Allison's free, age-specific guides show you exactly how many hours of rest kids need to grow, learn, and thrive—no matter their age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

    21 min
  3. 223. How to Help Tweens and Teens Get Enough Sleep—Even When They're Not Tired

    JAN 20

    223. How to Help Tweens and Teens Get Enough Sleep—Even When They're Not Tired

    Later bedtimes. Bedtime resistance. A tween or teen who insists they're "not tired" until 10 p.m. or later. If this sounds familiar, you're not imagining things—and you're not doing anything wrong. In this episode, Allison explains what's really happening inside your child's body as they move into the tween and teen years. During puberty, the circadian rhythm naturally shifts later, delaying melatonin release and making kids feel alert well into the evening. The problem? School start times don't shift with them. This biological mismatch often leads to chronic sleep deprivation, inconsistent schedules, and nightly power struggles. But here's the good news: even though tweens and teens don't feel tired early anymore, they can still fall asleep early enough to get the sleep they need—with the right structure and support. Allison breaks down how to work with your child's changing biology (instead of fighting it), why sleep matters more than ever during adolescence, and what intentional bedtime routines can look like at this age. This episode is especially helpful for parents who want to protect their child's mental health, academic performance, emotional regulation, and overall well-being—without turning bedtime into a nightly battle. In this episode, you'll learn: Why tweens' and teens' circadian rhythms naturally shift later How school schedules contribute to sleep deprivation The difference between "not tired" and "can't fall asleep" How inconsistent weekend sleep makes weekdays harder Why structure matters more—not less—as kids get older Simple, realistic bedtime routines for tweens and teens How stretching and meditation can support sleep readiness  Why screens in the bedroom make earlier sleep harder How sleep impacts mental health, learning, sports, and safety Ways to help tweens and teens understand why sleep matters If bedtime feels harder than it used to and you're worried about your child getting enough rest, this episode will help you feel informed, grounded, and confident about holding sleep-supportive boundaries. Allison recommends these related episodes: Episode 178. Melatonin and Children: Why I Don't Recommend It Episode 218. Why Screens Don't Belong in Your Child's Bedroom (And How to Set the Boundary) Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube  Wondering if your child is getting enough sleep? Allison's free guides take the guesswork out of bedtime. Learn the optimal sleep ranges for every age so your little one can feel their best—day after day. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

    24 min
  4. 222. Is It Time to Switch From the Crib to a Bed?

    JAN 13

    222. Is It Time to Switch From the Crib to a Bed?

    Is your toddler suddenly fighting bedtime, waking overnight, or making you question whether the crib is still working? In this episode, Allison breaks down one of the most common (and stressful) questions parents of toddlers face: Is it time to move from the crib to a bed? This question often comes up during moments of panic—sleep regressions, big life changes, or developmental leaps—but the answer isn't always what parents expect. Allison walks through the three most common reasons families consider making the switch and offers an honest, experience-based take on each one. You'll learn why: A sleep regression is rarely a crib problem—and why switching to a bed often makes sleep harder, not easier Daycare cot or mat sleep doesn't automatically mean your child is ready for a bed at home A new baby doesn't have to mean your toddler gives up their crib Climbing out of the crib deserves attention—but doesn't always require an immediate bed transition Allison also shares practical, safety-focused strategies (including sleep sack tips that save many families from transitioning too early), guidance on the ideal age for moving to a bed, and how impulse control plays a major role in successful toddler sleep. If you're trying to decide whether to hold onto the crib a little longer—or you're worried you're "behind"—this episode will help you slow down, reassess, and make a plan that supports both your child's sleep and your own sanity. Allison mentions two of her one hour, $27 workshops that are available when you need them: How To Quickly Recover From A Sleep Regression (15-30 Months) How to Prepare Your Child for a Smooth Crib to Bed Transition Workshop Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube   Looking for expert guidance on your child's sleep? Allison offers two free age-specific guides to help you discover how much sleep kids need to thrive—at any age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

    25 min
  5. 221. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Laura Brazan

    JAN 6

    221. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Laura Brazan

    What happens when retirement plans are suddenly replaced by bedtime routines, school drop-offs, and parenting kids after trauma? In this deeply moving episode, Allison sits down with Laura Brazan, host of the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren podcast, to talk about the unexpected realities of becoming a full-time caregiver later in life. Laura shares her personal journey of raising two grandchildren after a family crisis — and how sleepless nights, behavioral challenges, and profound grief ultimately led her to create the world's leading podcast for grandparents in this role. Together, Allison and Laura explore the emotional, financial, and relational shifts that come with stepping back into parenting after 50, especially when children have experienced trauma, neurodiversity, or instability. Laura speaks candidly about the isolation many grandparents feel, the strain on marriages, and the lack of clear resources — but also the deep purpose, healing, and joy that can emerge through love, structure, and connection. This conversation also offers insight for parents who aren't grandparents, including how to support children being raised by grandparents, how to navigate uncomfortable but necessary conversations, and why talking openly about trauma and mental health matters for the next generation. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, caregiver, or someone who wants to better understand families shaped by adversity, this episode is a powerful reminder that healing is possible — and that community makes all the difference. In this episode, we discuss: What it's really like to unexpectedly raise grandchildren Common challenges grandparents face: sleep deprivation, trauma behaviors, finances, and isolation How trauma impacts children's brains — and how healing happens over time Navigating parenting in a completely different generation The strain (and strengthening) of marriages when raising grandchildren How parents can support children in their community being raised by grandparents Why having hard conversations about mental health and family trauma matters Finding purpose, joy, and legacy in later-in-life parenting Connect with Laura Brazan: Website: grandparents-raising-grandchildren.org Instagram: @grandparentspodcast Facebook: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren  Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube  Wondering if your child is getting enough sleep? Allison's free guides take the guesswork out of bedtime. Learn the optimal sleep ranges for every age so your little one can feel their best—day after day. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics.  Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

    51 min
  6. 220. [ENCORE] Answers To The 5 Most Asked Toddler Sleep Questions

    12/30/2025

    220. [ENCORE] Answers To The 5 Most Asked Toddler Sleep Questions

    Allison answers five of the most common questions she hears from parents about toddler sleep. If you're navigating pillows and blankets, sleep regressions, toddler clocks, crib-to-bed transitions, or nightlights, this episode is packed with clear, practical guidance you can use right away. This is a quick, approachable episode designed to give you clarity, reassurance, and confidence as you support your toddler's sleep. You'll learn: When it's appropriate to introduce a pillow and blanket The most common toddler sleep regression and what triggers it How toddler clocks can support independent sleep The best age to transition from a crib to a big kid bed Products Allison mentions: Toddler Pillow Toddler Blanket Hatch Sleep Light   Other resources you may find helpful: Sleep Regression Workshop Crib to Bed Transition Workshop Episode 9. The Truth About Night Lights and Fear of the Dark Episode 46. The Key to Success with a Toddler Clock Episode 94. When To Introduce a Pillow and Blanket Episode 95. Q&A - If my child naps well on a cot at daycare, are they ready for a big kid bed? Episode 167. [ENCORE] 5 Myths About the Crib to Bed Transition   Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Use code SLEEP to get free shipping on your first order at Shenanigans From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Looking for expert guidance on your child's sleep? Allison offers two free age-specific guides to help you discover how much sleep kids need to thrive—at any age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old   Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

    17 min
  7. 219. [ENCORE] Introducing Solids and Developing Adventurous Eaters with Kim Grenawitzke

    12/23/2025

    219. [ENCORE] Introducing Solids and Developing Adventurous Eaters with Kim Grenawitzke

    We're replaying this episode because it was the most downloaded, most shared, and most talked-about episode of 2025—and for good reason. Parents consistently told us this conversation changed the way they approached feeding, eased stress at mealtimes, and helped them feel more confident introducing solid foods. In this encore episode, Kim Grenawitzke from Solid Starts joins Allison for a deep, practical discussion on starting solids and supporting kids in becoming adventurous, confident eaters. Kim is the Senior Feeding and Swallowing Specialist at Solid Starts and a mom of two, and she brings both expertise and incredibly relatable insight. This episode is packed from start to finish with actionable advice for every feeding stage. You'll hear strategies for introducing solids, supporting picky eaters, language that keeps mealtimes positive, guidance on food allergies, and so much more. Allison and Kim also share personal experiences and lessons learned from feeding their own children, along with professional tips that help families avoid common mealtime pitfalls. Below are the topics covered, along with timestamps to help you jump to what you need: [8:18] When to start introducing solids and developmental signs your child is ready [12:55] What to do if your child is developmentally ready but shows no interest in food [14:36] When to talk to your healthcare provider about lack of interest in food [15:14] Fundamentals of Kim's approach to introducing solids and physiology behind it [19:28] How to choose your baby's first foods [21:55] Food safety: textures, sizes, and preparing solids appropriately [28:47] How to respond to gagging and what to do about choking concerns [32:55] Homemade vs. store-bought baby food: pros and cons [36:28] Whether babies need special "baby yogurt" [41:25] Introducing foods from the nine major allergen groups [46:20] Which babies are high-risk for allergies and how to introduce allergen foods safely [50:45] Why food allergies are more common today [52:10] Strategies for supporting picky or sensitive eaters [57:56] Whether it's okay for a child to skip a meal or go to bed without dinner [59:21] When to seek help from a feeding specialist [1:06:55] Setting up mealtimes to encourage adventurous eating [1:08:10] When weight gain concerns require medical guidance [1:12:17] What to do if you feel you've "messed up" feeding and now have a picky eater [1:15:20] How family connection at the dinner table improves eating and bedtime [1:21:22] Language that helps—or hurts—during mealtimes [1:33:55] Services Solid Starts offers and who can benefit Learn more about Solid Starts on Instagram or at their website Solid Starts discount code: use code SOLIDBEDTIME20 to receive 20% off your first year of an annual subscription at https://solidstarts.com/app/ (code valid through 12/31/26) Order your copy of Solid Starts for Babies: How to Introduce Solid Food and Raise a Happy Eater Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Give your child the gift of better sleep. Allison's free, age-specific guides show you exactly how many hours of rest kids need to grow, learn, and thrive—no matter their age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

    1h 39m
  8. 218. Why Screens Don't Belong in Your Child's Bedroom (And How to Set the Boundary)

    12/16/2025

    218. Why Screens Don't Belong in Your Child's Bedroom (And How to Set the Boundary)

    In today's episode of How Long 'Til Bedtime?, Allison dives into one of the trickiest screen-time boundaries parents face: screens in the bedroom. Allison has always held a strong stance—no TVs, tablets, or phones in children's bedrooms—and she's breaking down exactly why this boundary matters, why it's hard, and how to make it stick, even as kids get older. Inside the episode, you'll hear: Why screens in the bedroom can disrupt melatonin, sleep onset, and overall sleep quality How the "one more video" cycle impacts bedtime behavior and makes transitions harder The mental health risks associated with private, unsupervised screen use Why keeping screens in shared spaces protects kids emotionally and socially The simple logistical systems Allison uses in her own home (parental controls, charging stations, and more) What to do if you're starting this boundary late — including the exact script Allison uses when changing screen rules Encouragement for holding firm, even when kids push back Whether you're parenting toddlers, big kids, or middle schoolers, this episode offers practical steps, compassionate support, and a strong reminder that: Screens aren't going anywhere, but bedrooms can—and should—remain a place for rest, calm, and connection. Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube  Wondering if your child is getting enough sleep? Allison's free guides take the guesswork out of bedtime. Learn the optimal sleep ranges for every age so your little one can feel their best—day after day. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics.  Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

    20 min
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From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—this is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, How Long 'Til Bedtime? delivers real solutions for everything from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, desperately want your evenings back, or just need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, we've got you covered.

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