That's Not How A Baby Sleeps

This week, we're slowing things down and catching up—just the two of us. It's been a while since we’ve had a chance to chat about real-life motherhood stuff, and in true mom fashion, there's a lot going on. Aleni shares how she’s preparing for her upcoming 3-night trip away from Nora (and all the feels that come with it), plus details about her new workshop for families transitioning away from bed sharing. We also get honest about screen time—what it looks like in our homes right now and one of our favorite screen-free swaps that actually works.⁠Sign up for Aleni’s Workshop here⁠And because we love this community so much, we’ve got a Mother’s Day Giveaway to share! One lucky Mama will join us on the podcast to chat about their child’s sleep struggles, and we’ll offer gentle, supportive guidance—no sleep training required. Enter our Mother’s Day Giveaway hereAlicia & Aleni are both Moms and certified infant and toddler sleep specialists who don't use traditional sleep training methods to support the families that they work with.Follow along on social media for more sleep without sleep training tips.⁠Alicia's Instagram⁠⁠Alicia's Tiktok⁠⁠Aleni's Instagram⁠Work with AliciaView 1:1 support options and services herePurchase our comprehensive sleep coursesBook a FREE 20 minute clarity call hereCheck out our free resources here**The information shared is not medical advice & is for entertainment purposes only

If you’ve ever stressed about milk supply, doubted your body, or felt totally overwhelmed by the world of pumping—this episode is for you. 💛 We sat down with Katie, a Mom & Certified IBCLC, to talk everything milk supply and pumping. From what truly regulates milk supply (hint: it’s not how full your boobs feel) to how to build a freezer stash without going into oversupply panic-mode, Katie breaks it all down in a way that feels doable and grounded in what really matters—connection and confidence.In this conversation, we talk about what “normal” milk supply actually looks like, how to know if your baby is getting enough, and when and how to start pumping (without losing your mind). Katie also shares her go-to advice for troubleshooting supply dips, pump struggles, and returning to work—plus why common myths like “fussy baby = low supply” need to go. She brings her holistic, baby-and-mama-centered approach to every part of this chat, and we left feeling so much more empowered—and we know you will too.You deserve support, not pressure. Let this be your permission slip to let go of the guilt and lean into what feels right for you and your baby. 💕Katie’s websiteFollow Katie on InstagramFollow Katie on YoutubeFollow Katie on FacebookAlicia & Aleni are both Moms and certified infant and toddler sleep specialists who don't use traditional sleep training methods to support the families that they work with.Follow along on social media for more sleep without sleep training tips.⁠Alicia's Instagram⁠⁠Alicia's Tiktok⁠⁠Aleni's Instagram⁠Work with AliciaView 1:1 support options and services herePurchase our comprehensive sleep coursesBook a FREE 20 minute clarity call hereCheck out our free resources here**The information shared is not medical advice & is for entertainment purposes only

In today’s episode, we are joined by Rebeka—former client, mental health counselor, and mom to a spirited two-year-old—for a truly heartfelt conversation about navigating baby sleep without sleep training.Rebeka shares her personal journey with her daughter's sleep, what those early sleepless months looked like, and how she made the choice to parent through connection even when things felt incredibly hard. We talk about what surprised her most about doing this work without sleep training, what she’s carried with her into other parts of parenting, and the emotional shifts that happened along the way.As a counselor who supports individuals in the perinatal period, Rebeka also brings in her professional lens to talk about the mental load so many parents carry—especially when it comes to sleep. She reflects on how her own work impacted her parenting journey, and how her understanding of attachment and co-regulation deepened through lived experience.If you’re in a tough season right now, or feeling like you're the only one still supporting your child to sleep—this episode is the reminder you need that you're not alone. There is another way, and it doesn’t mean going against your instincts.Grab a cozy drink, take a deep breath, and come join us in this honest and encouraging chat. ❤️Resources Shared By Rebeka:Blog Post written by Rebeka on Postpartum Depression & AnxietyVirtual Counseling SupportPodcast Episode: Protecting Maternal SleepPostpartum support help lineAlicia & Aleni are both Moms and certified infant and toddler sleep specialists who don't use traditional sleep training methods to support the families that they work with.Follow along on social media for more sleep without sleep training tips.⁠Alicia's Instagram⁠⁠Alicia's Tiktok⁠⁠Aleni's Instagram⁠Work with AliciaView 1:1 support options and services herePurchase our comprehensive sleep coursesBook a FREE 20 minute clarity call hereCheck out our free resources here**The information shared is not medical advice & is for entertainment purposes only

Let’s be real—navigating baby sleep as a couple can feel really complicated when you’re not on the same page. In this episode, we brought on our husbands for a candid conversation about what happens when one parent wants to sleep train… and the other doesn’t. We asked them the hard questions—“Do babies need to learn to self-soothe?” “Isn’t picking them up all the time creating bad habits?”—and let them share their honest thoughts and concerns. We also reflected on our own experiences—what those early disagreements around sleep looked like, and how we worked through them without resentment.This episode is for any parent who feels stuck between wanting to protect connection and feeling the pressure to just do something to fix sleep. We unpack what’s really behind the desire to sleep train & talk about how to respond when you don’t agree and how to hold your boundaries without taking on all the night duties alone. Because sleep is a family issue—not just “Mom’s job.”Whether you’re the partner saying “no thanks” to sleep training, or the one feeling unsure of what else to do—this one’s for you. Supporting your baby doesn’t mean doing it all alone, and choosing connection doesn’t mean chaos forever. Alicia & Aleni are both Moms and certified infant and toddler sleep specialists who don't use traditional sleep training methods to support the families that they work with.Follow along on social media for more sleep without sleep training tips.⁠Alicia's Instagram⁠⁠Alicia's Tiktok⁠⁠Aleni's Instagram⁠Work with AliciaView 1:1 support options and services herePurchase our comprehensive sleep coursesBook a FREE 20 minute clarity call hereCheck out our free resources here**The information shared is not medical advice & is for entertainment purposes only

If bedtime feels like a never-ending struggle—requests for water, a million stall tactics, and a toddler who suddenly needs one more hug—you’re not alone. Toddler bedtime battles are real, and there are good reasons why they happen.In this episode, we’re breaking down why toddlers struggle with separation at night, how boundaries shape bedtime, and what role sensory needs and nervous system regulation play in settling to sleep. We’ll also talk about the difference between overtired and under tired toddlers and how to find the right balance for your child.The good news? There are simple shifts that can make bedtime feel smoother and more connected. We’re sharing actionable tips you can start using tonight to help bedtime feel less like a battle and more like a bonding experience.If you’re looking for more support, check out Aleni’s Bonded Bedtime Guide for a deep dive into bedtime struggles and solutions.Let’s make bedtime easier—for both you and your little one. 💛Mentioned in this episode:Mini push light buttonsVelcro tapeLovevery 2YR Helper Kit-Routine CardsAlicia & Aleni are both Moms and certified infant and toddler sleep specialists who don't use traditional sleep training methods to support the families that they work with.Follow along on social media for more sleep without sleep training tips.⁠Alicia's Instagram⁠⁠Alicia's Tiktok⁠⁠Aleni's Instagram⁠Work with Alicia & AleniView 1:1 support options and services herePurchase our comprehensive sleep coursesBook a FREE 20 minute clarity call hereCheck out our free resources here

Does your child insist that only one parent put them to bed? You’re not alone! Bedtime is a vulnerable time, and children often cling to the parent they associate most with comfort and sleep. But this preference isn’t rejection—it’s simply an attachment pattern built through routine. The good news? Attachment is flexible, and with patience, children can build trust and comfort with both caregivers at bedtime.In this episode, we’ll explore a gentle, connection-based approach to introducing another caregiver into the bedtime routine—without forcing it or causing distress. We’ll discuss why children develop strong bedtime preferences, small steps to ease into shared bedtime responsibilities, and how a predictable routine can help kids feel safe regardless of who is putting them to sleep. We’ll also talk about strengthening connection outside of bedtime to make transitions smoother and why it’s okay if each parent has their own way of settling a child to sleep.If bedtime has become a one-parent job in your home and you’re looking for a gradual, attachment-focused way to help your child adjust, this episode is for you. Tune in for practical, reassuring guidance to help your child feel safe, secure, and supported as they learn to embrace bedtime with both parents.Mentioned in this episode:Match making: Learn more here.Alicia & Aleni are both Moms and certified infant and toddler sleep specialists who don't use traditional sleep training methods to support the families that they work with.Follow along on social media for more sleep without sleep training tips.⁠Alicia's Instagram⁠⁠Alicia's Tiktok⁠⁠Aleni's Instagram⁠Work with Alicia & AleniView 1:1 support options and services herePurchase our comprehensive sleep coursesBook a FREE 20 minute clarity call hereCheck out our free resources here

Going from one child to two is a massive shift—for everyone. Your firstborn, your new baby, and you are all adjusting, and it’s okay if it feels overwhelming. You might find yourself grieving the one-on-one time you had with your firstborn while also feeling immense love for your new baby. The guilt, the exhaustion, and the sibling jealousy are all normal parts of this transition. In this episode, we’re unpacking the emotional and logistical challenges of adding a second child and offering real, practical support to help you navigate this season.We’ll talk about how to prepare your firstborn before the baby arrives, including age-appropriate ways to introduce the idea of a sibling and ways to keep your bond strong. We’ll also dive into the early weeks—how to validate big emotions, create simple moments of connection, and manage sleep with two kids (yes, it’s possible!). From balancing bedtime to finding ways to entertain a toddler while caring for a newborn, we cover the realities of this transition without sugar coating the hard parts.And because we know every family’s situation is different, we’re answering listener questions about co-sleeping with two, keeping your firstborn’s sleep routine intact, dealing with sibling jealousy, and knowing when to pick your battles. This transition is hard, but it won’t always feel this way. Give yourself grace, lower the bar, and remember—love and connection matter more than perfection. You’ve got this. 💛Download Alicia’s Side By Side Slumber Guide to set up a sidecar cribEpisodes mentioned:S2E24 Siblings & Sleep: Room Sharing, Bed Sharing, and Making It WorkS1E9 Parenting Solo & Navigating Your First Night Away S1E16 Navigating Bedsharing: Your Questions AnsweredAlicia & Aleni are both Moms and certified infant and toddler sleep specialists who don't use traditional sleep training methods to support the families that they work with.Follow along on social media for more sleep without sleep training tips.⁠Alicia's Instagram⁠⁠Alicia's Tiktok⁠⁠Aleni's Instagram⁠Work with Alicia & AleniView 1:1 support options and services herePurchase our comprehensive sleep coursesBook a FREE 20 minute clarity call hereCheck out our free resources here

Thinking about having your kids share a room—or even a bed? While sibling room sharing can be a beautiful bonding experience, it also comes with its own set of challenges. In this episode, we’re diving into everything you need to know about making the transition as smooth as possible. We’ll discuss when and how to introduce room sharing based on age, development, and family space, as well as key safety considerations, including AAP recommendations and the Safe Sleep 7.We’ll also cover practical tips for setting up a safe and functional sleep space for multiple kids, managing bedtime routines, handling night waking, and preventing disruptions. Plus, I’ll be sharing my personal experience with my daughters sharing a bed—what worked for us, what we had to adjust, and how we made it a positive experience for everyone.Whether your little ones are just starting to share a room or you're wondering if bed sharing is an option, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to create a setup that works for your family. Because at the end of the day, sleep solutions should feel good for everyone—not just fit into a one-size-fits-all moldAlicia & Aleni are both Moms and certified infant and toddler sleep specialists who don't use traditional sleep training methods to support the families that they work with.Follow along on social media for more sleep without sleep training tips.⁠Alicia's Instagram⁠⁠Alicia's Tiktok⁠⁠Aleni's Instagram⁠Work with AliciaView 1:1 support options and services herePurchase our comprehensive sleep coursesBook a FREE 20 minute clarity call hereCheck out our free resources here

Does your child need you to lay with them until they fall asleep? Are you feeling ready to make a change but want to do it in a way that feels respectful and connected? In this episode, we’re breaking down how to support older children in falling asleep independently—without using sleep training. We’ll walk you through what to assess before making changes, including overtiredness, separation anxiety, and connection needs. We’ll also share a gradual, attachment-based approach to easing into independent sleep, gentle strategies for handling night wakings and bedtime anxiety, and the importance of flexibility, reassurance, and meeting your child where they are.Plus, we’re covering everything you need to know to help your child adjust to the upcoming time change this weekend. Spoiler: This one’s way easier than the fall time change! If bedtime is feeling like a struggle, or you’re just looking for a way to support your child in sleeping more independently while still honoring their attachment needs—this episode is for you. ❤️Check out Aleni’s Bonded Bedtime Guide hereCheck out Dr.Deborah Macnamara’s tips for bridging bedtime separation hereAlicia & Aleni are both Moms and certified infant and toddler sleep specialists who don't use traditional sleep training methods to support the families that they work with.Follow along on social media for more sleep without sleep training tips.⁠Alicia's Instagram⁠⁠Alicia's Tiktok⁠⁠Aleni's Instagram⁠Work with Alicia & AleniView 1:1 support options and services herePurchase our comprehensive sleep coursesBook a FREE 20 minute clarity call hereCheck out our free resources here

If your little one is waking before 6 AM and you’re running on fumes, you’re not alone! In this episode, we’re diving into early morning wake-ups—what causes them, when they’re biologically normal, and how to shift them when they’re not.We’ll explore how circadian rhythms impact early wake-ups and environmental factors that may be contributing to your early morning wake up call. We’ll also break down the role of daytime sleep, looking at both under-tiredness and overtiredness, and how adjusting naps and wake windows can help build the right amount of sleep pressure.If you’ve been struggling with early mornings and aren’t sure how to make a change, this episode is for you. We’re breaking it all down so you can support your little one in getting more restful sleep—without sleep training. 💛Alicia & Aleni are both Moms and certified infant and toddler sleep specialists who don't use traditional sleep training methods to support the families that they work with.Follow along on social media for more sleep without sleep training tips.⁠Alicia's Instagram⁠⁠Alicia's Tiktok⁠⁠Aleni's Instagram⁠Work with Alicia & AleniView 1:1 support options and services herePurchase our comprehensive sleep coursesBook a FREE 20 minute clarity call hereCheck out our free resources here