Your sleep consulting questions answered by Kelsey Atkinson, RCC, Pediatric Sleep Coach, Vancouver BC
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Sleep Consultants Covered by Insurance / Extended Health Care Benefits?
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) who specializes in pediatric sleep and perinatal mental health, my sleep counselling services are covered under most extended benefits & health insurance plans in British Columbia. Full payment is due at the time of the appointment. The Baby/Toddler sleep package breaks down to 5-9 billable hours (depending on package). Please check with your insurance provider for counselling coverage by a Clinical Counsellor or Psychotherapist. I am registered with the BCACC.
Should I sleep train my baby?
So why consider sleep training? For one, it can help improve your baby's overall sleep quality, leading to better health and cognitive, emotional and behavioural development. It can also help establish healthy sleep habits that will benefit them for years to come. But perhaps most importantly, sleep training can also help you as a parent. When your baby is sleeping better, you'll be better rested and more able to care for them during the day. Plus, you'll have more time to take care of yourself, recharge your own batteries, and spend time with your partner. More here
Does sleep training affect attachment?
Sleep training can be a controversial topic among parents. While some swear by it, others worry that it may harm the attachment between parent and child. However, research has shown that sleep training does not have any negative effects on attachment and may even have some positive benefits.
Attachment is a deep emotional bond between a child and their primary caregiver. It is formed through consistent and responsive care, which helps the child feel safe, secure, and loved. Some parents worry that sleep training, which involves teaching a baby to fall asleep on their own, may disrupt this bond. However, studies have shown that sleep training does not have any negative effects on attachment. In fact, it may even improve attachment by helping parents to be more responsive to their baby's needs during the day. When parents are well-rested, they are better able to engage with their baby and respond to their cues. Read more here.
Can I still provide night feeds during sleep training?
Absolutely! Sleep training does not mean that your baby will go all night without a feed. Many babies under 6 months old still take 1-2 feeds a night and many babies up to a year are taking 1 feed. If you’d like to include night feeds in your sleep training plan, we will start with the number of feeds you feel comfortable with. If you are looking to wean or cut out feeds, you can also work towards that. A baby’s nutrition is an important part of any sleep coaching plan.
What types of sleep training methods do you use for babies?
I customize my sleep training plans to first ensure that all sleep foundations are optimized including daytime schedule, room environment, feeding schedule, bedtime routines, and daytime activity. I’ll then outline responsive sleep training methods that range from a parent-present/in-the-room method to out-of-the-room (leave and check) method. The in-the-room method allows you to stay in the room with your child the entire time, whereas the leave-and-check method allows you to comfort your child with timed checks (similar to Feber). Within choosing a sleep training method that aligns with your parenting philosophies, child, and family dynamic, we’ll also make adjustments to ensure you feel 100% comfortable with the plan. My goal is that you feel supported and confident in the method and plan you choose.
What is the best age to sleep train?
I recommend any time after 4 months old. By 4 months, most babies have reached a stage of neurological and physiological development that allows them to self-settle and develop healthy sleep habits. Their sleep patterns become more consolidated, making it easier to establish consistent routines. Older babies may have developed strong sleep associations such as rocking, nursing, or being held to fall asleep. Sleep training can help them learn to self-soothe and fall asleep independently, reducing dependency on external sleep aids.
When is the best time to sleep train my baby?
The ideal time to sleep train is when your little one can sleep in their bed for a minimum of 2 consecutive weeks (with no nights out). This means it’s probably best to wait until after your upcoming vacation to sleep train. You can still book your consultation prior to your trip so that you know all the necessary information to sleep train, but you’ll implement the plan after your trip. Many parents like booking the consultation before trips so that they can have a game plan and gradually work towards their goals by implementing small changes at a time. Once you’re back, you can start the official 3-week sleep training plan with my assistance.
Will my baby cry?
Probably. The baby sleep coaching methods and plans will be sensitive to you and your baby’s needs, however, I cannot promise that your baby won’t cry. Babies cry for many reasons: the temperature is too hot, too cold, etc. One of the main ways babies communicate is through crying and when changes have been made to their routine, they are usually frustrated and protest. That being said, I’ll always make a plan that you feel comfortable with.
Do you provide bedtime support?
If you are feeling nervous or apprehensive about starting sleep training, you are not alone! I can support you through the first night’s bedtime for up to 3 hours via text messaging support. Text messaging support is a great way to ease your nerves by offering reassurance and answering any questions that may arise during the first night. Check out the Silver and Gold Packages for more information.
Do I have to get rid of my baby’s pacifier during sleep training?
Pacifiers are an excellent tool for soothing your baby. They can be used to comfort fussy babies at night, soothe colicky or teething babies, and reduce SIDS risk. If you are at the point where you are constantly needing to pop back in your baby’s pacifier and are ready to eliminate it, we can include this in your sleep training plan. If your baby (and you) are not quite ready to part ways with the pacifier, then you can most definitely keep it. Read more here.
Is a virtual sleep consultation the same as an in-person appointment?
I offer in-person sleep consulting appointments at my North Vancouver counselling office and in-home appointments in the lower mainland. However, virtual appointments are the preferred choice by most families. When you book a virtual appointment, you won’t need to worry about commuting, parking, naps, or feeding on the go. It gives you the flexibility to take care of your little one from the comfort of your home. An additional bonus of a virtual consultation is that you can give me a tour of your baby’s room, which allows me to make recommendations to improve their sleep environment. If you prefer an in-home appointment, I can come to you!
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