How Long 'Til Bedtime?

In honor of Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month, we're revisiting one of our most popular episodes exploring the emotional and mental shifts that come with new motherhood. In this encore conversation, Allison Egidi is joined by Ellen Jones and Holly Kennedy, maternal wellness coaches and co-founders of Mother Tree Wellness, to talk candidly about their own experiences with postpartum depression and anxiety—and how they turned those struggles into a mission to support other moms. Inside this episode, you'll learn: How postpartum anxiety and depression can show up—even when you're “doing all the right things” The personality traits that may increase vulnerability to postpartum mental health challenges The real meaning of “losing yourself” in motherhood—and how to start finding your way back How partners can be better prepared to offer support The difference between therapy and maternal wellness coaching What to say (and not say) to new moms who might be struggling ✨ Whether you're a new mom, an expecting parent, or someone supporting a loved one through this transition, this episode is packed with validation, wisdom, and hope.

Is your newborn wide awake at night, but sleeps peacefully all afternoon? You're likely dealing with day/night confusion, a completely normal—but totally exhausting—part of early parenthood. In this episode, pediatric sleep and wellness coach Allison Egidi breaks down: What day/night confusion really is and why it happens The simple environmental changes that help your baby reset their internal clock How to use light and dark to gently guide your newborn's circadian rhythm How long it can take to "fix" day/night confusion When and how to start capping naps What “progress” actually looks like during this phase (hint: small wins matter!) You'll also learn why this is a temporary developmental phase, and how consistent day/night signaling can help it resolve sooner—often by 6 weeks of age. If you're in the thick of it, Allison's guidance will help you feel reassured and empowered as you support your baby's sleep development from the start. ✨ If you found this episode helpful, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. It helps other tired parents find the show! Links Mentioned: Need more support with newborn sleep? Join Allison's Have Baby, Need Sleep program for step-by-step guidance, expert modules, and live weekly Q&As. Learn more here! May is Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month. Each of the ten episodes we have dedicated to this important subject offers a slightly different perspective. Listen in and help spread the word by forwarding an episode or two to a new mom in your life.  Episodes: 29. My Postpartum Anxiety Story 30. How to Keep Reaching for the Light with Britt Davis 31.  Sleep Makes Such a Difference with Caroline Vasquez 32. Where Did I Go with Ellen Jones and Holly Kennedy 82. The Postpartum Journey from the Perspective of Three Husbands with Mike Vasquez, Alex Grant and Todd Kennedy 84. Planning for Your Mental Health Postpartum with Kayce Hodos 135. Maternal Mental Health From The Perspective of an OB/GYN with Dr. Nicole Rankins 136. Maternal Mental Health From The Perspective of a Pediatrician with Dr. Stephanie Grice 137. How Postpartum Support International Supports Parents with President and CEO Wendy Davis 138. Maternal Mental Health: What I Want Every Parent To Know   Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

Allison Egidi welcomes a unique and inspiring guest—12th grader Lizzie Pisani—who shares powerful insights from her year-long capstone project on the relationship between teen sleep, anxiety, and screen use. After struggling with her own sleep during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lizzie became curious about how disrupted sleep impacts mental health in teens. Her passion for the topic led her to dive deep into research, survey her peers, and interview professionals—all culminating in a project aimed at helping teens and parents better understand the connection between sleep and emotional well-being. In this episode, you'll learn: What inspired Lizzie to research teen sleep and anxiety The clear correlation she found between poor sleep and higher levels of anxiety in her high school community How screen time and inconsistent sleep routines exacerbate mental health challenges in adolescents Simple, actionable strategies that teens (and their parents!) can implement to improve sleep hygiene Surprising stats about how many teens aren't getting enough rest—and the real consequences Lizzie's compelling ideas for how schools can support student well-being through sleep education Personal reflections from Lizzie on the challenges and rewards of applying her own sleep tips Whether you're raising a teen or preparing for the teen years ahead, Lizzie's thoughtful perspective and practical advice are not to be missed.

You've probably heard that feeding your baby to sleep can create a sleep crutch—but what about keeping a feeding in the bedtime routine without letting your baby fall asleep during it? In this episode, I'm breaking down why a bedtime feeding can be a helpful part of your evening wind-down, how to include it without reinforcing a sleep association, and simple tweaks that support independent sleep while keeping that sweet feeding moment. In this episode, you'll learn: Why feeding before bed doesn't have to be a “bad habit” The key shift that makes a bedtime feed work with your sleep goals What to do after the feeding to help your baby fall asleep on their own How this small change can lead to longer stretches of sleep overnight If you've been wondering whether to keep or change the bedtime feeding, this episode is for you. Resources & Links: DM me your bedtime routine @sleepandwellnesscoach Want to work together 1:1? Learn more at sleepandwellnesscoach.com   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Is your child calling you back in night after night (or worse—multiple times a night) just to be re-tucked? You're not alone—and you don't have to stay stuck on the tuck-in merry-go-round. In this episode, Allison walks you through a simple, empowering strategy to help your child learn to pull their blanket back on independently—even as young as age two. You'll learn: Why your child may have developed the habit of calling you back in at bedtime (and how it becomes part of their routine). The key approach to help your child learn how to pull their blanket back on themselves. How to use calm encouragement to help your child gain independence at bedtime, even if they resist at first. How Allison used this method with her own child at age 2, and how quickly it worked to stop the bedtime interruptions. If bedtime has become a nightly struggle, check out Allison's Your Preschool Sleep Champion program—designed specifically for kids 2.5 to 6 who resist bedtime or wake during the night or too early. You'll learn exactly how to reduce drama, build confidence, and get your evenings and nights back. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

Ever had a perfectly good nap day derailed by a five-minute car ride? You're not alone. In this short and actionable episode, Allison breaks down the real reason why even a micro-nap in the car can totally throw off your baby or toddler's nap schedule. Whether it's a one-minute snooze on the way home from daycare or a quick doze during errands, these tiny naps pack a surprisingly big punch. You'll learn: Why short car naps mess with your child's natural sleep pressure What to do in the moment if your child dozes off in the car Tips for handling that tricky 5 p.m. post-daycare nap How to quickly get your baby's sleep rhythm back on track If car naps have been sabotaging your little one's sleep, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do about it. Mentioned in this episode:

Puberty doesn't just bring growth spurts and mood swings—it also changes the way your child sleeps. In this episode, Allison breaks down what's happening biologically when tweens start staying up later and struggling to get up in the morning. You'll learn how to recognize the signs that your child's internal clock is shifting and get practical tips to help them stay well-rested—even as their sleep needs evolve. What You'll Learn: Why your tween is suddenly taking longer to fall asleep How puberty affects melatonin production and circadian rhythms Real signs your child's sleep is shifting (and what's still normal) What to try when your child is staying up too late and still has an early wake-up How Allison is navigating this season with her own kids (and what's working!) Mentioned in this episode: Calm app for bedtime meditations Peloton app for bedtime meditations and stretching Know a parent with a tween or teen? Forward this episode their way—it might just save a few hours of sleep this week. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

We all want our kids to embrace bedtime and develop a positive relationship with sleep, but sometimes we miss key opportunities to reinforce this mindset. In today's episode, Allison is sharing a simple, go-to response to your child's “I'm tired” that can encourage a healthy sleep attitude. Episode highlights: The golden moment when your child says, "I'm tired" at dinner and how to respond Why validating your child's feelings of tiredness can be a game-changer How to reinforce the importance of listening to their body's signals The power of using positive language around sleep What to do if your child truly needs sleep more than food Tips for shaping a positive sleep narrative that reduces bedtime resistance Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Teething and sleep is one of those parenting topics that sparks a lot of debate. In this episode, Allison is addressing a question she hears constantly: Should you wait to sleep train if you know or suspect that your baby is teething? Spoiler alert: No, you don't need to wait! In fact, helping your baby learn to sleep well might actually help them manage teething discomfort better at night. Listen in as Allison dives into the latest research published in The Journal of Pediatrics, which reveals that teething does not actually cause night wakings. She'll share the findings from a brand-new study, which used advanced video monitoring to track the sleep patterns of babies on teething vs. non-teething nights. The results may surprise you! If you've been waiting to sleep train because of teething, this episode will reassure you that it's not only possible but beneficial to start sleep training now. Allison and Sophie Kuzjak discuss the transition out of the swaddle in our Before We Dive In segment. Learn more about the Zipadee-Zip transition swaddle they mentioned.  Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!    Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

If your child has figured out that potty breaks are a perfect excuse to delay bedtime, it can quickly turn into a frustrating routine. But don't worry—Allison has some straightforward strategies to help you set boundaries and restore peace to bedtime. It can be difficult to determine whether or not your child actually does need to use the restroom when they are asking multiple times each evening. Listen in for Allison's tips for sorting through the stall tactics and setting your child up for sleep success without the multiple trips to the potty at bedtime. Plus, she's sharing language you can use to set and keep a clear structure around your child's bedtime routine.  Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Use code SLEEP to get free shipping on your first order at Shenanigans Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

  If you have a toddler, you likely have some questions when it comes to their sleep. This age group can be tricky with their big emotions and all the sleep transitions they naturally go through. In this episode, Allison is answering the five questions she gets asked the most about toddlers. She'll cover sleep regressions, the transition from crib to bed, toddler clocks, night lights, and how and when to introduce a pillow and blanket.   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   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.    Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!    Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Melatonin is often marketed as a natural and harmless sleep aid, but is it really safe for kids? In this episode of How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Allison is diving into why she doesn't recommend melatonin for most children. We'll explore the lack of long-term research, the potential impact on puberty, and why relying on melatonin might be masking deeper sleep issues. You'll learn: ✅ Whether or melatonin is well studied in children ✅ What emerging research says about its potential effects on puberty ✅ Why fixing underlying sleep habits is a better long-term solution If you've ever considered giving your child melatonin or want to understand the risks, this episode is a must-listen! Check out the Acquired podcast: Costco that Allison mentioned. Learn more about the Sleep and Wellness Coach programs and services Allison mentioned: Your Preschool Sleep Champion Program 1-on-1 Coaching Services Free Guide: Help Your Child Thrive With Sleep: 3 to 10 Years Old   Click here to watch or listen on YouTube     Use code SLEEP to get free shipping on your first order at Shenanigans   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Good news! The dreaded daylight saving spring time change is EASIER to navigate than the fall time change. Today, Allison is going to share how you can have your child adjusted to the new time in ONE DAY. And, she's going to answer the common question about whether you can use this time change to switch to a later bedtime and later morning wake time.  She'll share why she doesn't recommend the method of the gradual shift and walk you through a step-by-step plan for tweaking naps and bedtimes to make this transition as smooth as possible. Parents with newborns not on a schedule yet, she's got simple guidance for you too. Plus she's created a Spring Time Change cheat sheet to help you make the switch with ease. Click here to request your copy! Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Use code SLEEP to get free shipping on your first order at Shenanigans Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

If you are considering hiring a sleep coach or consultant, listen in to hear Allison's tips for choosing the ideal person to help your family.  Allison mentioned Dr. Temple's Instagram Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Some parents are able to help their babies or young children learn to sleep well without any professional help. There is a plethora of books and information online that parents can use to educate themselves on sleep. Other babies, however, continue to struggle despite their parents best efforts. In these cases, a sleep coach or consultant can be a valuable resource.  In this episode, Allison is sharing the key benefits parents receive from working with a sleep coach.   Links for items Allison mentions in the episode: Boiron Oscillococcinum Dr. Temple's flu advice Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Is your child between the ages of 2 and 5? Listen in to hear the FOUR items Allison believes need to be in every toddler's bedroom – and the ONE item she strongly encourages you to leave out of their bedroom. She provides her reasoning behind all these recommendations, as well as complete details on her must have items. Allison mentions these previous episodes: 173. 4 Things I Like To See In Every Infant's Room 167. [ENCORE] 5 Myths About the Crib to Bed Transition 46. The Key to Success with a Toddler Clock 64. Nap, Rest Time or Drop the Nap? Let's Discuss. Links for items Allison mentions in the episode: Canopy humidifier Levoit humidifier Blackout blinds  Hatch Toddler Clock Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Do you have a baby under 2 or are you expecting? Listen in to hear the FOUR items Allison believes need to be in every infant's bedroom. She provides complete details on the items, as well as why she believes these items are necessities.  Links for items Allison mentions in the episode: Canopy humidifier Levoit humidifier Blackout blinds  Hatch Sound Machine  Dohm White Noise Sound Machine  Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

Many working moms who juggle careers and daycare often experience some form of mom guilt. It can show up in many ways, but one that Allison frequently hears about is the guilt that comes with having limited time with children in the evening because of early bedtimes. Allison herself struggled with what she calls "working-mom-bedtime-guilt." After solving her older daughter's sleep puzzle, she discovered that a 7pm bedtime worked best for her children. However, this early bedtime left little room for hanging out together after a long day of work and daycare. As a result, Allison grappled with feelings of guilt about not having enough time to bond with her girls each evening. In this episode, Allison shares how she was able to shift her mindset and find peace with the early bedtime schedule, recognizing its benefits for everyone in the family. She opens up about her personal experience in hopes of helping you find your own path to easing that persistent working mom guilt. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Have you ever wondered if it's too late to embark on sleep training with your baby, toddler, or young child? Parents often ask Allison this question. It's very common for parents to wonder if they've missed the window to improve their child's sleep situation. In this episode, Allison's sharing her thoughts on if it's ever too late to sleep train a baby or child. Allison mentions Episode 153. When is the best time to sleep train a child? Click here to watch or listen on YouTube Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Figuring out the ideal number of naps per day for a 4 month old can often be challenging for parents. In fact, the entire 4 to 5 month window is a particularly unique period of time when it comes to naps schedules. Prior to 4 months, babies don't have a mature circadian rhythm, which means they aren't generally ready for a set nap schedule. Add in the sleep interruptions that the four month sleep regression often brings, and parents can really be at a loss for how to structure their baby's naps at this age. In this episode, Allison will help you figure out exactly how many naps per day your four month old should be taking. And she'll discuss whether you should be using wake windows or a set schedule to organize the naps. Allison mentions Episode 23. Good News About The 4 Month Sleep Regression Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Kim Grenawitzke from Solid Starts joins Allison for a discussion on introducing solid foods and developing adventurous eaters. Kim is the Senior Feeding and Swallowing Specialist at Solid Starts and a mom of two.  This episode is packed from start to finish with actionable advice for your family, no matter what feeding stage you're in. You'll hear strategies for starting solids with your young baby and for improving eating habits if your child is a picky eater. Kim shares approaches to feeding if you're concerned about food allergies, and language you can use to keep mealtimes positive and to encourage your children to become confident eaters who enjoy sharing the experience of eating food with people they love. Allison and Kim share personal experiences and lessons learned from feeding their own children, and provide professional tips and guidance for avoiding the many pitfalls parents encounter around feeding and mealtimes. Here are the topics they discussed with time stamps to help you find sections of interest: [9:52] When to start introducing solids and why? What development signs are you looking for in your child to know the time is right? [14:29] What to do if your child shows no interest in food, but is developmentally ready to start solids? [16:10] At what age should you consult your healthcare provider for help if your child is not interested in food? [16:48] What are the fundamentals of Kim's approach for introducing solid foods and the physiological reasons driving these principles? [21:02] How do you choose what food to introduce to your child first? [23:29] How to make sure the solid food you choose to share is safe for your child? What size and texture is appropriate for young eaters? [30:21] How to handle feeding if your child is gagging when food is in their mouth or choking while eating? [34:29] What are the pros and cons of feeding homemade food and store bought baby food? [38:02] Do I need to feed my baby a special baby yogurt or is regular yogurt a good choice? [42:59] How and when do you introduce foods in the nine major allergy groups (peanut, tree nut, dairy, egg, tinned fish, shellfish, soy, sesame, wheat)? [47:54] Which babies are considered high-risk to develop a food allergy? What is the strategy for introducing allergy foods for this group? [52:19] Why are food allergies more prevalent today than they were in the past? [53:44] What are strategies for improving mealtimes with toddlers and preschoolers who have become picky or sensitive eaters or are refusing food?  [59:30] Is it ok if my child chooses to skip a meal or goes to sleep without eating dinner? [1:00:55] In what situations would I need to take my child to a feeding specialist? [1:08:29] How do parents set up a mealtime environment to encourage children to become adventurous eaters?  [1:09:44] Who do I consult if my child is struggling to gain weight due to not eating enough? [1:13:51] If a parent feels they've handled food introductions incorrectly and now has a picky eater, how do they make changes and improve the situation? [1:16:54] Allison and Kim discuss how building family connections at the dinner table can help improve eating behaviors and result in smoother bedtime transitions as well. What are interesting conversation starters and ways to foster connection at meal times? [1:22:56] What language should you use with your children when it comes to food and mealtimes? And what language should you avoid using? [1:35:29] What services does Solid Starts provide and who can benefit? How can I get help feeding my family? Learn more about Solid Starts on Instagram or at their website Solid Starts discount code: use code BEDTIME20 to receive 20% off your first year of an annual subscription at https://solidstarts.com/app/ Pre-order your copy of Solid Starts for Babies: How to Introduce Solid Food and Raise a Happy Eater (available April 1, 2025) This episode is sponsored by Stacey Olson. Find out more about Stacey at her website or order your copy of Your Balanced and Bold Life: Work Less, Live More and Be Your Best.  Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Studies clearly show that getting the optimal amount of sleep improves a child's impulse control, emotional regulation, and learning retention. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children 3 to 5 years old get 10-13 hours of sleep in a 24 hour period and that children between 6 and 10 years old get 9 to 12 hours of sleep in a 24 hour period. These are big ranges and it can be difficult to determine the sweet spot of optimal sleep for each child. Allison believes that many children can get by on the lower end of these ranges, but will really thrive on the higher end. Listen in to hear the details of her own personal experience and many of her clients' experiences that have led her to this conclusion. Get your copy of Allison's free download that accompanies this episode: Helping Your Child Thrive With Sleep Allison mentions: Episode 107. How Many Hours of Sleep Do Babies Need? Matthew Walker's talk on sleep Interested in getting more personalized guidance from Allison? We invite you to schedule a 15 minute free call or check out her free workshop called 3 Steps to a Successful Sleep Reset for 2.5-6 Year Olds. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Are you considering moving your child from the crib to a bed? Is someone in your life pressuring you to ditch the crib? Expecting another baby and wondering if you actually need to buy another crib? This episode is for you. Allison often tells people that one of the most valuable pieces of advice she can give them is to keep their child in the crib longer than they think they need to. Listen in as she explains why she gives that advice and break down 5 myths about the crib to bed transition. Access Allison's workshop: How to Prepare Your Child For A Smooth Crib To Bed Transition Allison mentions Episode 11: Potty Training Without Disrupting Your Child's Sleep Allison's favorite sleep sack. Find out more about Allison's Preschool Sleep Program  Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

After each guest interview we do for the podcast, Allison asks our guests some rapid-fire questions unrelated to their area of expertise. Today's episode is a compilation of all the great “bonus answers” they shared with us in the last six months. These four guests will share their favorite stress-relieving self care strategies, family game and book and podcast recommendations, charities and nonprofit organizations they support, and the personal goal they are working towards this year.    Links to the previous episodes referred to in this episode: 145. Transitioning From One To Two Kids with Ellen Hayden 149. The Power of Exposure in Building Inclusive Communities with Angela O'Brien 150. How Two Small Changes Helped This Mom Achieve Smoother Bedtimes with Jessica Oliveri 164. Learning More About The Sober Curious Movement with Casey Davidson  57. Celebrating Our First Anniversary 90. Our Guests Have Even More To Say 115. Our Guests Have Even More To Say - Part Two 144. Our Guests Dive Deeper Games mentioned in this episode: Hungry, Hungry Hippos Bananagrams Uno Trouble Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Monopoly Deal Books mentioned in this episode: When Breath Becomes Air The Anxious Generation Charitable organizations mentioned in this episode: Isaiah 117 House Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas Notre Dame School of Dallas Boston Children's Hospital Mass Eye and Ear Curing Kids Fund   Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Welcoming a new baby into the house is life changing, for parents AND for older siblings. This big change, or even just the anticipation of it, can often trigger a sleep regression in toddlers and preschool age children. Allison is sharing three tips to help you avoid a sleep regression with an older sibling when you bring home a new baby.  Allison mentions Episode 146. Going From One to Two: Fears and Challenges Find out more about Allison's workshop: How To Quickly Recover From A Sleep Regression for 15-30 Month Olds Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Have you thought about taking a break from drinking alcohol? Or have you just wondered what being Sober Curious is all about? Join Allison for a candid conversation about the Sober Curious movement with Casey Davidson. Casey is a Certified Life Coach and Master Practitioner in Core Energy Leadership and is eight years sober. After finding out how much happier and healthier she felt after removing alcohol from her life, Casey made it her mission to help other busy, driven women reevaluate their relationship with alcohol and create lives they love. Listen in for Casey's story and a discussion about how you could explore options for taking a break from alcohol. Learn more about Casey Davidson and her Hello Someday Coaching Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Our three coaches share gift recommendations for the children and adults in your life. The 2024 holiday season is the inspiration for this episode, but their ideas are gifts you could give at any time throughout the year.   Allison mentions our gift idea episode from 2023: Episode 112. Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List - Our Team Favorites Details on the products mentioned in this episode: Journal Kit Small Pouch Makeup and lotion spatula Pet mug Toniebox  Garages Geometry towels School Bus Pop Out Tent Outdoor Playset Blue Light Glasses  Whoop Adjustable Sleep Mask Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

The holiday travel season is upon us. You may be preparing to take your family on a long car ride or be flying somewhere. Your travels may be taking you to stay with family or to stay in a hotel. Some children will be sleeping in their own room during these travels and some of you will need to roomshare. And on top of everything else, many will be traveling to different time zones. So today, Allison is sharing tips to help you with all of these different travel scenarios along with her advice on managing family expectations.  Get 10% off a Slumberpod with Allison's affiliate code, SLEEPANDWELLNESSCOACH Allison's favorite travel white noise machine Allison mentions Episode 6. Managing Family Expectations Click here to watch or listen on YouTube Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

There is no evidence based answer as to when a baby no longer “needs” night feedings. Based on her experience working with over 1,000 babies, Allison tends to find that by 6 months or 16 pounds, whichever comes first, most babies are ready to sleep through the night without feeding. Sometimes, however, these babies need help dropping those night feedings. If you are considering dropping one or more of your child's night feedings and are looking for a plan to drop one, listen in for Allison's simple advice. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Allison is addressing the two most common questions and concerns she hears from families after the fall time change and the end of daylight saving time.  Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Infant and toddler sleep needs to be balanced throughout a 24 hour period. Both nighttime and day sleep are important for our babies' growth and development. Even though the bulk of our children's sleep happens at night, naps are very important. Some babies are naturally inclined to take long naps before they learn to sleep well at night… and sometimes those naps can be too long. In this episode, Allison will provide guidelines for your child's optimal allocation between daytime naps and nighttime sleep to help you determine when waking them from a long daytime nap is beneficial. To find out how much day and night sleep Allison thinks is optimal for children based on their age, request your copy of her FREE GUIDES for 0-2 year olds or for 3 to 10 year olds. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

The dreaded fall time change is upon us again. But there's no need for concern. Allison has guided her community through this transition for years with great results. Her plan makes it a very quick and mostly painless process. In this episode, she shares how you can help your child smoothly transition to the new time and avoid getting stuck with crazy early wakings. She also discusses where we currently stand as it relates to the proposed end to switching the clocks twice per year (the Sunshine Protection Act).  Click here for the free cheat sheet download Allison created for you Allison mentions episode 46. The Key to Success with a Toddler Clock Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

What do you do if your 3 month old baby suddenly starts taking 30 minute naps and becomes difficult to put back to sleep at night? We've got the answer for you today in this Sleep SOS episode. Earlier this week, Allison asked her Instagram community to submit questions about their child's sleep. Katie, a mom of a 3 month old baby girl, is asking for guidance on improving her daughter's naps and looking for simple tips to help her put her daughter back to sleep after night wakings. Based on the details Katie has provided, Allison has deduced that this three month old is likely experiencing the dreaded 4 month sleep regression. In this episode, Allison provides three tips for Katie, and addresses how you too can handle sleep when your baby takes this developmental leap.   Find out more about Allison's Have Baby, Need Sleep Newborn Sleep Coaching Program for parents with babies who are 12 weeks or younger Follow Allison on Instagram so you don't miss the next chance to have your question answered in a Sleep SOS episode Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

October is SIDS awareness month. SIDS, which stands for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, is the reason it's important to understand what it means to practice safe sleep. One of the recommendations you'll see around safe sleep is room sharing with your baby, but with the baby in their own safe sleep space, i.e. a crib or bassinet. With some babies, room sharing truly makes sleep easier, but for others, it makes sleep more challenging for all parties involved.  In this episode, Allison strives to help parents figure out if room sharing is helping or hurting their baby's sleep. Listen in If you have wondered if room sharing is contributing to sleep struggles and/or aren't sure about when exactly you want to transition your baby into their own room. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

The majority of daycares in the United States shift babies from two naps per day to one midday nap at 12 months. For many 12 month olds, this transition is happening too early and can lead to a variety of challenges. Dropping to one nap too early can result in an overtired child, which can lead to unpleasant evenings and bedtimes and may trigger night wakings or extra early morning wakings. If you have a little one in this situation, you'll want to hear Allison's three tips for improving sleep during this tricky period of transition. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

If you have a child who is not sleeping well, it can be very difficult to determine the next right step to take for better sleep. And if you and your partner don't agree on what that next step should be, the situation becomes even more challenging.  Our sleep coaches meet with a lot of couples who are trying to decide if a formal sleep training approach is right for their family. Sometimes, one parent believes sleep training is necessary, and one parent is hesitant. In this episode, Allison is sharing some of the common concerns she hears from parents who are considering sleep training, and explains how she works through these concerns with her potential clients. She provides advice for getting on the same page with your partner, and determining what steps you can take to improve your child's sleep, whether you decide to sleep train or not. Allison mentons episode 124. My Parenting Mantra: Reserve The Right To Change My Mind Schedule a free 15 minute Get Acquainted Call with one of our sleep coaches Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

If you have a baby or young child who isn't sleeping well, you may have wondered when it is the “best time” to implement a sleep training plan or you may have searched the internet to try to figure out if you are “too late.” Allison has helped over 1,000 families teach their children to become independent sleepers and she's sharing her thoughts on identifying the “best time” to sleep train your child. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

As children get older and move into the elementary school years, evening activities often begin to push bedtimes a bit later and interrupt sleep schedules. Families with young children who are thriving with their early bedtimes may worry about or even start to feel the negative effects of these later bedtimes. In this episode, Allison is offering a plan for balancing evening activities, homework, and sleep. She's sharing tips for keeping kids well rested without sacrificing the chance to participate in sports and other after school activities.  Allison mentions Episode 1. My Case for an Early Bedtime Click here to watch or listen on YouTube Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Many children between 3 and 5 years old attend a daycare where rest or nap time is offered daily. Often, a child who is struggling with sleep at home catches up on their sleep by taking a long nap at daycare. And when bedtime is a struggle at home, parents sometimes ask the daycare to either skip the nap or cap it after a certain amount of sleep. It's not uncommon for daycares to respond by telling parents that they are legally required to offer a nap and can't wake their child up until the end of the nap period. So what can a parent in this situation do?  Listen in as Allison offers advice to help you figure out if the nap is the reason bedtime is a struggle, then navigate the necessary changes both at home and at daycare. FREE Challenge Starts September 4th - 3 Days To Smoother Bedtimes. If you have a 2.5 to 6 year old and you want to go from bedtimes that take forever to shorter bedtimes and your child falling asleep faster, sign up today! Contact Allison if you're looking for more help creating smoother bedtimes.  Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

If you have a child between 2.5 and 6 years old and you've been dreading bedtimes because your child resists, stalls or is falling asleep crazy late, Allison's 3 Days To Smoother Bedtimes sleep challenge is for you. We're kicking off this FREE challenge for the third time on September 4th. Hundreds of parents have participated in our two previous challenges and have found that a few simple tweaks have allowed them to improve their child's sleep habits and regain some free time for themselves in the evenings. In today's episode, Allison is joined by Jessica Oliveri, a mom who participated in our April challenge. Jessica and her husband implemented a couple changes during the challenge and saw huge improvements in their son's sleep situation. Listen in as Jessica shares the ways in which her son's sleep got off track, how she and her husband implemented Allison's suggestions, and the advice she gives to other parents when it comes to preschool sleep.  FREE Challenge Starts September 4th - 3 Days To Smoother Bedtimes. If you have a 2.5 to 6 year old and you want to go from bedtimes that take forever to shorter bedtimes and your child falling asleep faster, sign up today! Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

Allison is joined by Angela O'Brien for a vulnerable conversation about the importance of exposure and inclusion as it relates to the special needs community. Angela is a professional organizer, host of the Especially Organized podcast, and a special needs mom.   Allison and Angela discuss the reasons it's important for our young children to be exposed to people with special needs, the biases that still exist in today's communities and why we need to work towards a more inclusive society. Both Allison and Angela share their own personal stories of how individuals with special needs have impacted their families.  Angela opens up about the joys and challenges of parenting a child with intellectual disabilities, makes suggestions for how parents can approach and include families with special needs children, as well as offers guidance on how parents of special needs children can find support and community in their own lives. Learn more about Angela on her website or on Instagram The National Down Syndrome Society holds Buddy Walks across the country to celebrate Down Syndrome awareness. Find a Buddy Walk in your area Click here to watch or listen on YouTube Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

August is the month many families find they need to tighten up their sleep schedules to prepare for back to school. In this episode, Allison is providing back to school sleep tips for elementary school aged children. Time and again, studies have shown that children who receive an optimal amount of sleep have greater learning engagement and retention, improved emotional regulation and impulse control, and even have reduced anxiety, which translates to less separation anxiety at drop off and greater independence at school. Listen in as Allison explains the amount of sleep that is appropriate for this age group and how to find an appropriate sleep schedule that will help your child thrive at school. Allison mentions: Episode 128. Sleep To Get By Or Sleep To Thrive? Sleep For 3 to 10 Year Olds Episode 147. Back to School Sleep Tips: Preschoolers and Daycare Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

August is the month many families find they need to tighten up their sleep schedules to prepare for back to school. In this episode, Allison is providing back to school sleep tips for preschoolers and toddlers starting daycare for the first time. The research is clear - children who receive an optimal amount of sleep have greater learning engagement and retention, improved emotional regulation and impulse control, and even reduced anxiety, which translates to less separation anxiety at drop off and greater independence at school. Listen in as Allison explains the amount of sleep that is appropriate for toddlers and preschoolers. She'll help you set the necessary sleep schedule - from identifying the time they'll need to wake for preschool or daycare, to shifting them to the corresponding bedtime. Plus, she discusses how naps at home and naps on cots at school or daycare play into their overall sleep needs. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

Parents often have concerns about the changing dynamics when you prepare to add a second child to their family. Their fears vary - from how they'll spread their love and attention across two children, to the logistics of getting through life with two little ones, to how this new addition will affect their career, marriage and relationship with their first child. Some parents also worry about being older and sleep deprived the second time around, or how they'll manage if they don't have a local support network to lean on. We dove into the topic of going from one to two children in last week's episode with Ellen Hayden. Ellen shared her personal experience of welcoming her second child. She shared that the transition went better than she expected and she was pleasantly surprised with how naturally she and her family were able to work through the issues she was most nervous about before giving birth. While this is the case for many families, others face more challenges during this transition. Allison is back this week to provide a slightly different take on this transition. She shares two more stories of moms expecting their second child, both her own story and that of another mom in this community. She elaborates on the worries they both had before their second child arrived - some similar to the worries Ellen had, and some very different. She provides a glimpse into her own family during this delicate time - the biggest challenges her family faced after her second daughter's birth, what strategies they put in place that really improved the situation, as well as her lessons learned along the way.  Allison mentions: Episode 29. My Postpartum Anxiety Story Episode 100. My Story - Why I Became A Sleep Coach Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

Going from one to two children is a transition point that parents often have angst about and find challenging. Our sleep coach Ellen Hayden recently welcomed her second baby. To provide a first-hand account of the ups and downs that happen during the months before and after welcoming a new baby, Allison had two candid conversations with Ellen. They spoke first before the new baby's arrival to discuss how Ellen was feeling about the idea of becoming a mom of two. Allison asked Ellen about her concerns, the things she was most looking forward to, as well as the challenges Ellen and her husband were preparing to tackle after the new baby's arrival. Their second conversation took place after Ellen's second baby's arrival. Ellen shared the differences in her two experiences with labor and delivery, recovery, feeding, and sleep during the early newborn weeks. She explained how the reality of adding a second baby to the family differed from what she anticipated.  Find out more about Allison's Have Baby, Need Sleep Newborn Sleep Coaching Program that was mentioned in the episode Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

After each guest interview we do for the podcast, Allison asks our guests some rapid-fire questions unrelated to their area of expertise. Today's episode is a compilation of all the great “bonus answers” they shared with us in the last six months. These six guests will share their favorite stress-relieving self care strategies, family game and book and podcast recommendations, charities and nonprofit organizations they support, and the personal goal they are working towards this year.    Links to the previous episodes referred to in this episode: 117. How To Execute a Smooth Crib to Bed Transition with Sophie Kuzjak - Part One 118. How To Execute a Smooth Crib to Bed Transition with Sophie Kuzjak - Part Two 122. Self-Leadership as a Parent with Kara Ryska 126. Transitioning Back To Work After Maternity Leave With Rebecca Olson 129. Co-Parenting and Single Parenting with Alicia Robertson 133. Encouraging Our Children To Engage More With Household Responsibilities with Lori Sugarman-Li 137. How Postpartum Support International Supports Parents with President and CEO Wendy Davis 57. Celebrating Our First Anniversary 90. Our Guests Have Even More To Say 115. Our Guests Have Even More To Say - Part Two   Games mentioned in this episode: Candy Land Guess Who Blokus Mario Kart Sushi Go Uno Attack Five Crowns Mexican Train Dominoes Laser Tag Dog-Opoly Dog Bingo Monopoly Deal   Books mentioned in this episode: Why We Sleep Michael Connelly Books The Book of Awakening   Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

Buckle up listeners, this is a good one. This episode is packed with helpful information. Allison talks to Bev Sidders, a chemical engineer turned licensed master esthetician, about all things sunscreen…. plus a little bonus on bug spray as well.  Each question Allison asks Bev yields tons of great information. Here are some of the highlights: how to choose the right sunscreen for everyone in your family, which sunscreen ingredients you should look for and which you should avoid and why, how to use the EWG app to check the safety of the products your family uses, Bev's recommendations for specific sunscreen products for the whole family, what SPF we should be using and how often we need to reapply, bug spray brands Bev recommends and tips for applying, how to treat a sunburn, whether sunscreen really expires, whether going outside unprotected to boost Vitamin D levels is a good idea, the scoop on all those foundation and SPF combos out there… and much more.  Notes from Bev: – choose a 100% mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide – avoid aerosol sprays to limit risk of exposure to benzene – avoid chemical sunscreens with aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and trolamine salicylate (both were deemed unsafe by the FDA in 2019) – avoid chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate (both are potential endocrine system disruptors and are not reef safe, but are found in nearly 65% of all non-mineral sunscreens) – avobenzone is the least dangerous choice if you have to use a chemical sunscreen  – avoid sunscreens containing shea butter, petroleum, sweet almond oil, cocoa butter, retinols and niacinamide if you are prone to acne You can find out more about Bev or ask her a question on her website, Instagram and Facebook Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

As the United States prepares to celebrate July 4th with a long weekend of fireworks, Allison shares thoughts on protecting good sleep for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube

Allison definitely learned from personal experience that summer vacations with infants or young children can be difficult. These adventures definitely can feel more like trips than vacations because young children still need constant care and they have the ability to derail any plans very quickly. In this replay of our listeners' favorite episode, Allison will help you navigate the sleep aspect of your summer travel so all the other pieces can flow more smoothly. She'll cover how to work around naps and bedtime when traveling by car, how to best navigate your child's sleep schedule when flying, how to set up your child's sleep space in your new location, what items are true necessities when traveling with young children, what to do if you're sharing a bedroom with your child while you travel, and, probably most importantly, she'll walk you through how to reset your sleep habits quickly once you've come back home. Allison recommends these products in this episode: travel white noise, Slumber Pod (use code SLEEPANDWELLNESS to save 5%), SlumberTot Toddler Bed (use code SLEEPANDWELLNESS to save 5%), travel toddler mattress Allison mentions episode 26 on the crib to bed transition. Use this link to purchase a 30 minute call with Allison for personalized guidance. Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

School's out and summer reading is in! Are you looking for a good book for your child to dive into this summer? Does your young reader need a little inspiration to fall in love with reading? This episode is packed with book recommendations from Allison's two daughters, who just finished third and fifth grade. Allison provides descriptions of books her girls loved throughout elementary school, as well as insights as to how her family has built a shared love of enjoying good books together. Tune in to find the right book to keep the young minds in your house engaged and entertained during the summer break.  Books or series recommended in this episode: Magic Tree House Keeper of the Lost Cities The Spy School Emily Windsnap  The One and Only Ivan Whatever After Harry Potter  Allison mentions Episode 63. Learning to Read - What I Discovered After My Daughter's Struggle Click here to watch or listen on YouTube  Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube  

Stacey Olson, a Leadership and Positive Psychology Certified Coach, is returning to the podcast to discuss her new book, Your Balanced and Bold Life. Stacey helps leaders and professionals, many of them working parents, create more balance and less stress as they juggle being a parent, a high performer at work, taking care of themselves, and all the other aspects of their life. Allison and Stacey discuss some of the topics covered in her book, namely how parents can identify their values, practice making their own needs a priority, and learn to say no with confidence.  Check out Stacey's new book or her website Allison mentions Episode 89. Ditching Mom Guilt, Setting Boundaries and Creating Balance with Stacey Olson Click here to watch or listen on YouTube   Want to hear more from Allison? Provide your email address here to receive Allison's weekly email about the podcast and other fun topics.  Enjoying How Long ‘Til Bedtime? Please consider rating and reviewing the show. This helps Allison support more parents. Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the podcast, and select “Write a Review.” And if you're a Spotify listener, you can now leave reviews on Spotify by clicking here. Also, if you subscribe to the show, you won't miss any episodes!  Connect with Allison: Instagram Facebook Website YouTube