Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! 

In this episode, I am joined by a very special guest! I first met Allison when she taught at an adoption support group last Fall, and I just knew she had to be on the podcast! Allison is a trauma informed sleep expert, something which did not exist when she was raising her adopted son who struggled at night. Needless to say, sleep is crucial for everyone’s health–physical, mental, and emotional! Yet sleep is not something we as parents fully understand and that is why this episode is so important. 

Together, Allison and I emphasize the importance of understanding the emotional and psychological aspects of sleep, shifting parental mindsets, and providing children with tools to help them feel safe and secure at bedtime. We discuss the complexities of parenting, particularly in the context of sleep issues faced by children. We explore the importance of consistency in parenting, the need for trial and error in finding effective strategies, and the significance of creating a safe and comforting sleep environment. We also address the impact of sleep deprivation on both children and parents, emphasizing the necessity of community support and self-care for caregivers. We highlight the emotional challenges faced by parents, particularly those in foster care and adoption, and offer practical advice for building confidence and reframing expectations in the parenting journey. 

I learned so much from Allison and I know you will too! So many eye-opening points which help me reframe my understanding of sleep and trauma, and how the two are connected. Here are a few key takeaways: 

-Sleep is a vulnerable act for children, especially those with trauma.

-Understanding the emotional triggers around sleep is crucial.

-Parents should shift their mindset from discipline to support during sleep struggles.

-Adding tools to a child's sleep routine can help them feel more secure.

-It's important to view sleep as an opportunity for bonding and connection.

-Children need time to adjust to new environments and routines.

-Parents should approach sleep challenges with compassion and understanding.

-Building trust takes time and consistency in sleep routines . 

I am so glad you’ve decided to join us today! Below are ways to connect with Allison:

https://www.dwellpediatricsleep.com/about-me 

https://www.instagram.com/dwellpediatricsleep/ 

You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at [email protected].

I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!