Figuring out toddler sleep with Georgina Wysiecki of Woodlands Collective
In this episode, Georgina Wysiecki, founder of Woodlands Collective, shares invaluable insights on toddler sleep transitions and challenges. Understanding that every child is unique, she emphasizes the importance of adapting to your child's specific needs. Whether it's moving from a crib to a bed or dealing with daycare changes, Georgina provides practical strategies for parents to navigate these transitions effectively.
Episode Summary
1. Toddler Sleep Transitions and Challenges (0:00 - 6:04)
Georgina discusses the impact of toddler sleep transitions and how they can disrupt a child's sleep patterns. She advises parents to be mindful of their child's needs and establish a structured bedtime routine. This section covers:
Moving from a crib to a bed.
The influence of daycare on sleep patterns.
Coping with illnesses and daycare changes.
2. Strategies for Parents (6:04 - 11:28)
To minimize bedtime battles and ensure a smooth transition, Georgina recommends spending quality time with your toddler after daycare. She also suggests meal preparation tips and incorporating "silly time" before bedtime routines. Key points include:
Quality time with toddlers after daycare.
Meal preparation strategies for busy parents.
Fun activities to wind down before bedtime.
3. Bedtime Routines and Connecting with Children (11:28 - 14:15)
Georgina emphasizes the importance of tailoring bedtime routines to each child's preferences. She also discusses the use of visual timers and addresses common questions parents have regarding sleep issues. This section covers:
Customizing bedtime routines.
Utilizing visual timers for toddlers.
Personalized sleep advice for families.
4. Toddler Sleep Challenges and Changes (14:15 - 19:17)
Georgina advises parents to wait for stability before implementing significant changes like toilet training or transitioning to a big kid bed. She offers guidance on managing multiple milestones simultaneously and ensuring a safe sleep environment. Key takeaways include:
Waiting for stability before making changes.
Challenges of simultaneous milestones.
Safety considerations for transitioning to a toddler bed.
5. Child Sleep Habits and Weaning Off Pacifiers (19:17 - 24:16)
Georgina discusses sleep training strategies and weaning babies off pacifiers. She offers practical tips for a smooth transition and address concerns about attachment issues. This section covers:
Consistency and patience in sleep training.
Transitioning from pacifiers to comfort items.
Strategies to make transitions exciting for children.
6. Toilet Training and Sleep Disruptions (24:16 - 32:25)
Georgina discusses toilet training and its potential impact on sleep disruptions in young children. She advises parents to be prepared for changes in sleep patterns during this phase. Key points include:
Genetic factors in sleep patterns.
Keeping a potty in the child's bedroom.
Transitioning to independent sleep.
7. Toddler Bedtime Strategies and Consistency (32:25 - 37:06)
The importance of consistency: Georgina suggests gradual transitions and consistency in setting bedtime boundaries. This section covers:
Addressing nighttime wake-ups.
Strategies for helping toddlers fall asleep.
Maintaining a calm and consistent approach.
8. Parenting Tips for Sleep, Consistency, and Self-Care (37:06 - 42:46)
Georgina underscores the significance of consistency in implementing changes and recommends prioritizing self-care amidst the chaos. Key takeaways include:
Taking time for you.
Allocating time for self-care.
Having partner support.
More About Georgina Wysiecki
Georgina is the founder of Woodlands Collective, where she and her team provide Infant and Child Sleep Support through one-to-one services for families, courses and workshops. Georgina lives in North Vancouver with her husband, two children, and two dogs. She grew up in South Australia and moved to Vancouver in 2012. As a registered social worker, she has worked in the mental health and substance use field for over thirteen years.
To connect with Georgina and the Woodlands Collective team click here.
To connect with Woodlands Collective on Instagram click here.
To buy or gift the Woodlands Collective Newborn Sleep Course click here.
HOSTED BY ANDREA BARR
Andrea Barr is a certified career coach, strategist, and workshop facilitator. After establishing herself in the advertising sector early in her career, she made a shift to learning and development within the corporate world. As a new mother, she was struck by a lack of support for parents looking to find a balance between their career ambitions and family lives, and decided to fill that gap. Andrea offers support and solutions for parents who want to advance their careers without compromising what matters most: their families.
