A sleep diary is a really useful tool that Gentle Sleep Coaches (like me) like to use when you're struggling with something to do with your little one's sleep! 

Sleep diaries allow you to record over the course of (preferably) at least 5 days...or as many as you can manage:

• Morning Wake up time

• Nap times (start and finish of each nap)

• Start time of settling for night sleep

• Time baby fell asleep

• Times and lengths of any overnight wakes

The more detail you can give that might be relevant i.e. unexpected or unusual settling methods used for your child or reasons they've woken overnight etc. Or location of naps even! Any bonus info is useful info! 

Taking time, as a sleep coach, and as you, the parent, to notice any obvious patterns or unusual occurrences...or wins (!) May be all that is needed to identify where small tweaks to the daily routine and sleep habits can be made to improve sleep - adding more predictability, shortening or lengthening naps, increasing or reducing overall 24hr sleep. Sometimes these little tweaks are all that is needed to make a BIG difference to your child (and family's sleep situation!)

Other times, it can be a useful guide off which you're able to identify other issues perhaps needing further investigation e.g. related to diet, medical conditions or treatments, or significant life events that may require more time and support to overcome.

So, if you're struggling with sleep in your family and are thinking of seeking support, now you can get ahead of the game (if you fancy)!