How Long 'Til Bedtime? | Sleep and Parenting Podcast

To recognize ten years of Sleep and Wellness Coach, Allison reflects on the journey that led her from a severely sleep-deprived working mom struggling with postpartum anxiety to becoming a pediatric sleep consultant who has now helped thousands of families. She shares the personal story behind the creation of her business, including the exhausting early years of motherhood, unsuccessful attempts at sleep training, navigating postpartum anxiety in silence, and the moment she finally found the support that changed everything for her family. Allison also reflects on the many shifts she's witnessed in the world of children's sleep over the past decade, including: the rise of wake window culture growing awareness around maternal mental health increasing research connecting sleep to physical and emotional health more dads taking paternity leave and the expanding understanding of how sleep impacts children of all ages She also shares how Sleep and Wellness Coach has evolved from a one-woman side business into a growing team supporting families through one-on-one coaching, courses, workshops, a weekly podcast, speaking engagements, and now daycare sleep education programs designed to help even more families thrive. In this episode, Allison discusses: Her personal experience with postpartum anxiety and sleep deprivation How improving sleep transformed her mental health What inspired her to become a sleep coach The problem with today's obsession over wake windows Why sleep rhythms matter more than rigid schedules The growing cultural conversation around parental mental health Research linking sleep to child development and overall health Why she now works with children and teens of all ages The future vision for Sleep and Wellness Coach and daycare sleep education programs 🎉 10-Year Anniversary Giveaways To celebrate 10 years of Sleep and Wellness Coach, Allison is hosting four weekly giveaways throughout June over on Instagram. On the first four Mondays in June, a new giveaway will be posted featuring a mix of sleep and wellness favorites. To enter, follow along on Instagram and watch for each Monday's post. It's a fun way to celebrate 10 years of supporting families—and to say thank you to the community that made it all possible. Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube Wondering if your child is getting enough sleep? Allison's free guides take the guesswork out of bedtime. Learn the optimal sleep ranges for every age so your little one can feel their best—day after day. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

May is Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month. It is believed that 1 in 5 new moms experience some level of perinatal mood or anxiety disorder. And when a new mom experiences postpartum anxiety or depression, her partner is 50% more likely to also experience anxiety or depression. In today's episode, we've invited three fathers to share their perspective on the postpartum journey. Mike Vasquez and Todd Kennedy are married to women who courageously shared their postpartum experiences in episodes 31 and 32. Alex Grant and his wife are former clients of Allison. In this episode, Allison asks Mike, Todd, and Alex to reflect on their own transition to parenthood and what it was like to support a partner navigating postpartum anxiety or depression. Together, they share honest insights about recognizing when something was not quite right, managing their own emotions during a stressful season, and learning how to show up as steady, supportive partners. Their stories highlight the importance of communication, support systems, and compassion for both parents during the postpartum period. This episode offers a powerful reminder that postpartum mental health affects the entire family and that partners play a critical role in recovery and healing. Listen in to learn: Why postpartum mental health challenges affect the whole family, not just the mother How partners often recognize early signs of postpartum anxiety or depression The emotional impact of supporting a struggling spouse after a new baby arrives Practical ways partners can provide meaningful support during the postpartum period Why open communication and a strong support system are essential for new families We have eleven episodes dedicated to the important topic of maternal mental health. Each 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 238. How Postpartum Doula Support Can Protect a Mother's Mental Health with Kristin Revere Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube Give your child the gift of better sleep. Allison's free, age-specific guides show you exactly how many hours of rest kids need to grow, learn, and thrive—no matter their age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

May is Maternal Mental Health Month, and in this episode of How Long 'Til Bedtime?, Allison sits down with postpartum doula and maternal health advocate Kristin Revere to talk about a type of support that can make a profound difference for new families: postpartum doula care. While many parents are familiar with birth doulas, postpartum doulas are often less understood. Kristin explains what postpartum doulas do, how their role differs from night nurses or newborn care specialists, and the wide range of ways they can support families in the early weeks and months after bringing home a baby. From overnight newborn care and feeding support to helping parents process their birth experience and build confidence, postpartum doulas provide both practical and emotional support during one of the most vulnerable transitions in life. This conversation also explores the connection between sleep, support, and maternal mental health, and why having the right help in place can be truly life-changing for new moms. In this episode, you'll learn: What a postpartum doula is and how they support new families The difference between a postpartum doula, night nurse, and newborn care specialist The types of services postpartum doulas may offer (and how they vary) How postpartum doulas support maternal mental health Why sleep support plays a critical role in emotional well-being How doulas help build confidence in new parents What to look for when hiring a postpartum doula Why asking for help is not a luxury, it's essential Support in the postpartum period isn't a luxury. It truly is a critical part of maternal well-being. Having the right support system in place can ease the transition into parenthood, improve sleep, and make a meaningful difference in a mother's mental health. Learn more about Kristin Revere and Gold Coast Doulas at their website or on Instagram or check out Kristin's book: Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby 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 listen to the episode on YouTube Looking for expert guidance on your child's sleep? Allison offers two free age-specific guides to help you discover how much sleep kids need to thrive—at any age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

If you're navigating the tricky transition from two naps to one, this episode is for you. In this short and practical episode of How Long 'Til Bedtime?, Allison breaks down when babies are actually developmentally ready to drop to one nap—and why making the switch too early can disrupt night sleep. Allison addresses a growing trend she's seeing with families of 10–12 month olds being told (or feeling pressured) to drop to one nap, often due to daycare policies or sudden nap resistance. She explains why most babies aren't ready for this transition until closer to 15 months—and sometimes even later—and how to protect your child's sleep in the meantime. You'll learn: The ideal age range for transitioning from two naps to one Why early nap transitions often lead to night wakings and regressions What to do if daycare moves your baby to one nap early How to use early bedtimes and weekend schedules to protect sleep Why nap resistance doesn't always mean readiness Simple schedule tweaks that can help preserve two naps If your baby is under 15 months and naps suddenly feel harder—or sleep has gone off the rails—this episode will help you understand what's normal, what's not, and how to move forward with confidence. Wondering if your child is getting enough sleep? Allison's free guides take the guesswork out of bedtime. Learn the optimal sleep ranges for every age so your little one can feel their best—day after day. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

Every child is born with a unique sleep puzzle—and understanding that concept can completely change how you approach sleep challenges. In this episode, Allison breaks down why some children seem to sleep effortlessly while others struggle no matter how closely parents follow the "rules." If you've read the books, followed the schedules, tried multiple methods, and still feel stuck, this episode is for you. Allison explains the idea of natural sleep talent and why sensitive sleepers often need a much more precise approach. Through personal stories from her own family—and a powerful real-life coaching example—she shows how even one missing puzzle piece can keep sleep from clicking… and how finding it can change everything almost overnight. This conversation is a reminder that sleep struggles are not a reflection of parenting failure. Some children simply have bigger, more delicate sleep puzzles—and with the right pieces in place, restful nights are absolutely possible. In this episode, we cover: What the "sleep puzzle" really means Why following advice perfectly still doesn't work for some kids Natural sleep talent vs. sensitive sleepers Why regressions, travel, and routine changes hit some children harder How one small shift can lead to major sleep breakthroughs Why you're not doing anything wrong—and never were If this episode resonates, consider sharing it with another parent who may need to hear this message. You're not alone, and your child isn't broken—just beautifully unique. Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube Give your child the gift of better sleep. Allison's free, age-specific guides show you exactly how many hours of rest kids need to grow, learn, and thrive—no matter their age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

Is your toddler suddenly fighting bedtime, waking overnight, or making you question whether the crib is still working? In this episode, Allison breaks down one of the most common (and stressful) questions parents of toddlers face: Is it time to move from the crib to a bed? This question often comes up during moments of panic—sleep regressions, big life changes, or developmental leaps—but the answer isn't always what parents expect. Allison walks through the three most common reasons families consider making the switch and offers an honest, experience-based take on each one. You'll learn why: A sleep regression is rarely a crib problem—and why switching to a bed often makes sleep harder, not easier Daycare cot or mat sleep doesn't automatically mean your child is ready for a bed at home A new baby doesn't have to mean your toddler gives up their crib Climbing out of the crib deserves attention—but doesn't always require an immediate bed transition Allison also shares practical, safety-focused strategies (including sleep sack tips that save many families from transitioning too early), guidance on the ideal age for moving to a bed, and how impulse control plays a major role in successful toddler sleep. If you're trying to decide whether to hold onto the crib a little longer—or you're worried you're "behind"—this episode will help you slow down, reassess, and make a plan that supports both your child's sleep and your own sanity. Allison mentions two of her one hour, $27 workshops that are available when you need them: How To Quickly Recover From A Sleep Regression (15-30 Months) How to Prepare Your Child for a Smooth Crib to Bed Transition Workshop Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube Looking for expert guidance on your child's sleep? Allison offers two free age-specific guides to help you discover how much sleep kids need to thrive—at any age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

Allison answers five of the most common questions she hears from parents about toddler sleep. If you're navigating pillows and blankets, sleep regressions, toddler clocks, crib-to-bed transitions, or nightlights, this episode is packed with clear, practical guidance you can use right away. This is a quick, approachable episode designed to give you clarity, reassurance, and confidence as you support your toddler's sleep. You'll learn: When it's appropriate to introduce a pillow and blanket The most common toddler sleep regression and what triggers it How toddler clocks can support independent sleep The best age to transition from a crib to a big kid bed 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 From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Looking for expert guidance on your child's sleep? Allison offers two free age-specific guides to help you discover how much sleep kids need to thrive—at any age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube

In today's episode of How Long 'Til Bedtime?, Allison dives into one of the trickiest screen-time boundaries parents face: screens in the bedroom. Allison has always held a strong stance—no TVs, tablets, or phones in children's bedrooms—and she's breaking down exactly why this boundary matters, why it's hard, and how to make it stick, even as kids get older. Inside the episode, you'll hear: Why screens in the bedroom can disrupt melatonin, sleep onset, and overall sleep quality How the "one more video" cycle impacts bedtime behavior and makes transitions harder The mental health risks associated with private, unsupervised screen use Why keeping screens in shared spaces protects kids emotionally and socially The simple logistical systems Allison uses in her own home (parental controls, charging stations, and more) What to do if you're starting this boundary late — including the exact script Allison uses when changing screen rules Encouragement for holding firm, even when kids push back Whether you're parenting toddlers, big kids, or middle schoolers, this episode offers practical steps, compassionate support, and a strong reminder that: Screens aren't going anywhere, but bedrooms can—and should—remain a place for rest, calm, and connection. Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube Wondering if your child is getting enough sleep? Allison's free guides take the guesswork out of bedtime. Learn the optimal sleep ranges for every age so your little one can feel their best—day after day. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube