So long sleepless nights!

Every new parent struggle at some point with getting their baby to sleep. Kelly Geoghegan, a maternity nurse, emergency medical technician and registered paediatric sleep consultant with the International Paediatric Sleep Association, has 20 years’ experience in childcare.

She has helped hundreds of little ones with their sleep, with ages ranging from newborns to seven years old. In 2018, Kelly set up Sleepy Stars and to date she’s helped over 550 families who have infants with sleep issues.

Kelly says: “I have a strong belief that every child is different, and every family is different. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to sleep; your little one is unique. Some moms choose to breastfeed, others choose formula or combination feed; some are happy with the idea of baby led feeds and naps, whereas others believe that working on a routine with their baby may be best for them.

“Every parent has the right to choose what they feel is right for their child and their family situation. Parents also have the right to change their mind if what they originally choose is not working for them. If you are struggling at any time, it is extremely important to reach out for help and support: there’s no shame in asking for help, parenting is tough, but it can be enjoyed,” says Kelly.

In terms of guiding your baby on to a routine, Kelly says: “If you decide that you would like to work towards a routine with your baby you can begin to guide your baby gently towards a routine from six weeks old. In my experience the younger a baby is when guided on to a routine, the easier it is for them to adapt to it. It’s not impossible to go from feeding on demand to a routine at six months old but it will take more effort from the parent to adjust baby’s body clock on to the new routine.”

For more information, visit Kelly’s website www.sleepystars.ie.