FAQ

What is a sleep coach?

Just like every other coach,I'll be behind you encouraging, supporting, guiding and helping you to succeed, to achieve your family a restful sleep.


Why do I need a sleep coach?

We all know how hard it is to function when we are sleep deprived, and yet, we don't bat an eye when our babies are up several times a night! We will evaluate your situation and your parenting style, and I will work with you to create an individualized, step-by-step sleep plan that will factor in your parenting philosophy, your child’s age, health and temperament, mother’s well-being and the related family dynamics. The sleep training process is never easy, especially the first couple of nights when many parents want to give up. As a certified sleep consultant, I've coached parents in many different scenarios and situations helping them to reach their goals. And most importantly I will support and coach you through the process from beginning to end- for night sleep and naps!


Who should use The Gentle Sleep Coach Approach?

The Gentle Sleep Coach Approach is a gentler alternative for families who:

01// Emotionally or philosophically resist letting their babies cry it out. For families who tried the “Ferber” method, or controlled crying, and were unsuccessful.

02// Let their baby cry-it-out earlier but now find it doesn’t help.

03// Believe in co-sleeping but find that their children aren’t really sleeping all that well, even nestled snugly with their parents.

04// Did co-sleep for a few months to a few years and now want the family bed to revert back to the marital one.


WHAT MAKES EASY SLEEP SOLUTIONS DIFFERENT?

The main difference for The Gentle Sleep Coach certification and other programs is the amount of work and training it takes to achieve the certification.  We strive to be the gentlest on the market with additional training on PPD, secure attachment, breast feeding, and recognition from The Wonder Weeks Academy.  To keep our certification, we require on going training.  I feel that since I'm in the midst of having young children myself, I can relate to my clients.


WhEN CAN I BEGIN SLEEP TRAINING MY BABY?

I work with parents of children ages 6 months to 6 years old. For babies under 6 months, I will consult with parents on how to set up healthy sleep habits from the start and, if appropriate, how to gently shape their sleep.


Will my child cry during the sleep coaching method?

Some tears are inevitable during the sleep coaching process. For this reason, we will formulate a sleep plan that you are comfortable with with the goal of minimizing your child’s cry. This is why we encourage parents to make a gradual change that allows you to stay with your child and offer both verbal and physical reassurance during the sleep coaching process. This helps your child to learn how to sleep better in a safe and secure way.

For example, if you as the parent have taught your child that the way to fall asleep is to be held to sleep for all naps, bedtime and wakings and you decide that you want to change this; your child will naturally protest or resist this change. After all, they don’t know why you have changed your approach. And, if your child is pre-verbal then they will cry.

My goal is to have as little crying as possible.

 

Will I have to stop breast feeding?

Breastfeeding is best and it is never necessary to end breastfeeding in order to successfully sleep coach your child. I fully support your preferred feeding style whereas breastfeeding, formula or a combination of both.   I will factor in your routine and preferences and create an individualized sleep plan that fits.


Will I have to stop room sharing?

You do not have to stop room sharing to successfully sleep coach your child.  We will factor in your routine and preferences and create an individualized sleep plan that fits.


How long will the sleep coaching process take?

Each family has its own sleep issue and specific sleep goals. In general, the more patient, committed and consistent you are, the better.  Older children typically take longer than babies and require a bit more patience. On average, the amount of time spent during the active phase of the sleep coaching process is about 2-3 weeks. 


What kind of sleeping issues do you help with?

We help families address sleep challenges, including:

  • Sleeping through the night
  • Gradually dropping nighttime feedings
  • Early morning rising
  • Bedtime battles
  • Establishing nap schedules
  • Nap transitions (from two to one, from one to none)
  • Getting back on schedule after an illness or travel
  • Moving from the crib into a big kid’s bed
  • Expecting parents preparing for a new baby or sibling
  • And much more...


How do I schedule a sleep consultation with you?

If you are ready to take back your sleep, let’s get started!  Please send me an email to amandahanki@outlook.com or complete the form located on the Get In Touch page. Within 48 hours, I'll contact you to set up a free 15 minute initial phone call. During this phone call we will briefly discuss your child’s sleeping issues, we’ll answer all the questions you may have  and schedule our consultation. 


WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?

Easy Sleep Solutions is available to Edmonton and surrounding areas including Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Leduc, Spruce Grove and Stony Plain.