A home sleep consulting visit lasts between three and four hours (occasionally longer). During the visit I learn about the child’s sleep history, assess and possibly make some changes to their sleeping area, teach the parents why I use the methods I do, teach them how to use the self-soothing sleep method, and (depending on the child’s age) coach one or two sleep sessions.
When working with the families of children under two years of age (i.e., who take two naps a day), I schedule home appointments between 9 and 10 a.m. This appointment timing works best for two reasons. First, even if the household’s night sleep was disrupted, chances are it was the most uninterrupted sleep anyone will get that day. It is easier for adults and children to learn when they have recently slept. The second reason to start early is that it offers me the opportunity to complete two sleep practices while I am coaching the parent. If the child sleeps longer than anticipated, the lesson could go longer, as I always respect the child’s sleep needs.
For children who are old enough to take only one nap a day, I prefer to schedule the appointment between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. This appointment will be shorter than an appointment for a younger child—about three hours in length—because only one coached practice session will take place.
It is important that I hear from the parents what they have been doing to help their child go to sleep. That information lets me to know which behaviors I would encourage parents to keep, which I would help them let go of, and which I ones to add.
Part of the consultation includes setting up the child’s sleep area to maximize comfort and security. It is helpful if parents have already darkened the room with blinds, curtains, or special light-blocking shades. None of the other changes require advance preparations or purchases.
While in the child’s bedroom with the family, I explain how I coach during the sleep practices. In another room I go over all of the sleep skills and explain why I use them and why they work. I give demonstrations on how to soothe and comfort children in a way that teaches them how to soothe themselves. I discuss which sleep-related behaviors will be added to, taken away from, or kept the same for the child’s sleep routine. I also teach parents how to use the sleep method with equal success while traveling.
Before I leave I answer any developmental questions the parents may have that relate to healthy sleep—for example, about eating habits, discipline, and socialization. I also make recommendations about play equipment, toys, and childcare help.
Families are encouraged to email with any questions they may have. If progress isn’t being made daily, something needs to change. A simple mistake can delay improvement—and an easy correction will help progress continue.
