Thriving Parent-ing

In this gentle, baby bite-sized episode of Thriving Parenting, Jen explores one of the most powerful and often overlooked parenting tools: the pause.When our baby cries or our child becomes upset, the instinct to fix, stop, or intervene immediately can feel overwhelming. And that instinct exists for a reason. Our nervous system is wired for protection. But when hypervigilance runs the show all day, every day, parenting can start to feel harder rather than easier.This episode unpacks how pausing is not ignoring your baby. It is choosing to respond from safety rather than reflex.Jen explains how a brief pause helps bring our adult brain back online, giving us access to perspective, choice, and intuition. From newborn sleep to toddler emotions, pausing creates space to observe, gather information, and decide what support is truly needed in that moment.You will hear why:Hypervigilance is a normal part of becoming a parent, but can become exhausting when it stays switched on constantlyPausing helps regulate your nervous system so you can co-regulate with your childBabies and toddlers often surprise us when given a small moment to settle, adjust, or problem-solveThe pause supports sleep by avoiding unnecessary overstimulationOur own past experiences shape how we respond to crying, anger, and frustrationAwareness and compassion are key to breaking reactive cyclesJen also shares a simple, tangible practice she uses herself, placing a hand on her chest and breathing, to interrupt knee-jerk reactions and return to intentional leadership.This episode is a reminder that you are not doing less by pausing. You are choosing presence, wisdom, and connection. And that choice matters for both you and your child.🎧 Listen now to learn how the pause can help you parent with more calm, confidence, and trust in yourself.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 98 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

In this episode of Thriving Parenting, Jen is joined by Dr Bianca Mastromanno, perinatal clinical psychologist, for a compassionate, grounding conversation that helps new mums feel seen and less alone. Together they unpack what postpartum anxiety can actually look like, why a degree of hyperawareness is expected, and how to tell the difference between normal maternal vigilance and anxiety that needs extra support.They explore maternal preoccupation (Winnicott’s term for the brain shift that happens in motherhood), explaining why your mind may feel intensely focused on your baby’s safety, needs, and environment, especially in the first 6–12 months. Bianca reframes this hypervigilance as functional, evolutionary, and often temporary, while also acknowledging that for some parents, anxiety can become self-fuelling and get “stuck” in ways that interfere with daily life.A big focus of the episode is intrusive thoughts: unwanted, automatic thoughts that often involve harm, safety, or worst-case scenarios. Bianca normalises how common they are (often close to universal), why they show up more when you’re sleep deprived, and why having intrusive thoughts does not mean you want them to happen. Jen and Bianca share real examples to reduce the shame and silence so many parents carry.They also discuss modern triggers, including how social media can intensify fear and expand the “library” your brain pulls from, feeding postpartum hypervigilance. The conversation offers reassurance, practical tools, and clear guidance on when to reach out for support, especially if thoughts become frequent, intense, or start changing your behaviour in avoidant or compulsive ways.This one is for the parent who’s quietly wondering, Am I okay? You’re not broken. You’re not alone. And help can be gentle, accessible, and deeply supportive.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why the question Is this normal? is almost universal in postpartumWhat maternal preoccupation is and why hyperawareness is expectedHow postpartum anxiety can show up as vigilance, scanning, and constant mental checkingWhat intrusive thoughts are, why they happen, and what they do not mean about youThe difference between noticing a thought and acting as if it’s a factHow sleep deprivation can worsen intrusive thoughts and nervous system sensitivityThe role of social media in amplifying postpartum fear and threat perceptionPractical ways to “step back” from intrusive thoughts (without battling them)When professional support is recommended, and why it’s safe to seek helpResources like PANDA for support, information, and referral pathwaysSmall nervous system supports postpartum: hydration, nutrition, sunlight, movement, music, micro-momentsWould like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more...

Welcome back to the Thriving Parenting Podcast, where we explore the parent behind the act of parenting itself.In this episode, Jen dives into one of the most accessible yet overlooked parenting tools we all already have, even on our most exhausting days: humour.If parenting feels heavy, serious, or like you’re just pushing through the afternoons, this episode is a gentle reminder that laughter doesn’t have to be loud, performative, or natural right now to be powerful. It’s not about being funny or entertaining your child. It’s about using small, playful moments to regulate your nervous system, support your child’s emotional world, and bring connection back within reach.Humour, even in its tiniest form, is nervous system medicine.Jen explores how laughter helps complete stress cycles, supports emotional regulation, and brings the prefrontal cortex back online for both parents and children. When we laugh, we soften separation, ease transitions, and remind our children through our bodies that they are safe and supported.This episode offers practical, real-life examples of how humour can be woven into everyday parenting without adding more to your plate, including:Using playful connection during bedtime, mealtimes, and transitionsGentle humour for babies, toddlers, and preschoolersHow silliness supports emotional regulation and rupture and repairWhy laughter models safety more effectively than lecturesWays to access humour when it doesn’t feel natural or safe for you yetJen also speaks honestly about why humour can feel vulnerable, especially if you didn’t grow up with it, and how to rebuild your “humour muscle” slowly and compassionately. From shaking stress out of your body, to laughing at parenting mishaps, to building a “funny bank” of memories, this episode invites you to reconnect with the playful part of yourself without pressure.Because parenting doesn’t need to be serious all the time.Your child doesn’t need perfection.They need your presence, and laughter helps you return to it faster than almost anything else.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 96 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here.Until next time, Thrivers

In this gentle baby bitesize episode of Thriving Parenting, Jen invites you to pause and reflect on a pattern many parents know all too well. Rushing through the day, counting down to bedtime, and only truly delighting in our children once they are asleep, through photos, videos, or the baby monitor.Jen explores why this happens, especially during busy seasons like Christmas, and how the mental load, invisible to-do lists, and survival mode can pull us away from real-time connection. While this is completely human and deeply common, she offers a compassionate reframe. What if connection didn’t have to wait until the day was over?This episode gently reminds us that connection is a core human need, for both parents and children. When children feel seen, heard, and delighted in, it can support cooperation, ease transitions, and make parenting feel lighter.Jen shares five simple, intentional moments of presence you can weave into everyday life. From eye contact during feeds, to fully listening to their stories, to noticing their little hands in the shopping trolley. These small pockets of connection matter more than we realise.This is not about doing more. It is about being more present in the moments you are already in. A beautiful reminder that your presence is the most precious gift you can give your child. Especially at this time of year.Your children need your presence more than your presents.If sleep or parenting feels overwhelming right now, Jen also shares details about her free Sleep Clarity Sessions, offering calm, pressure-free support to help you move from surviving to thriving.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 95 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here.Until next time, Thrivers

Airway health is one of those invisible pieces of the parenting puzzle that can quietly shape everything, from feeding and sleep to behaviour, development, and long-term health. In this episode of Thriving Parenting, Jen dives into what many parents are never told to look for early on: the spectrum of airway dysfunction that often starts long before a child would ever be diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnoea.Jen is joined by Dr Shereen Lim, a pioneer in dental sleep medicine and author of Breathe Sleep Thrive, whose work centres on early intervention and helping families understand how breathing, feeding, tongue function, and jaw development are all deeply connected.If you’ve ever wondered why your baby mouth breathes, snores, struggles to feed, seems restless at night, or avoids chewing, this conversation will help you connect the dots in a way that finally makes sense.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why obstructive sleep apnoea is often the tip of the iceberg, and what can show up years earlierThe early signs of airway dysfunction that can be easily missed, especially in infancyWhy mouth breathing is never “normal”, and how early awareness can change a child’s long-term health trajectoryThe powerful “rapid growth window” in the first year, and why jaw and facial development matters for the airwayHow modern feeding patterns (purees, pouches, processed foods) can keep kids stuck in the “suck phase” and reduce jaw strengthWhat parents can do if breastfeeding didn’t work out (without guilt), including practical ways to support oral function and chewing from six monthsWhat to look for if your baby is snoring, noisy breathing, or sleeping with an open mouthA grounded, individualised take on tongue ties, why release isn’t a magic fix, and why support matters before and afterRed flags beyond sleep, including feeding struggles, “reflux-like” symptoms caused by air intake, picky eating, gagging, speech delays, and teeth grindingWhy airway issues aren’t only an ENT problem, and how adenoids and tonsils can be a symptom, not the root causeWhat “good sleep” should actually look like: silent, still, mouth closed, and truly restorativeBook: Discover How Airway Health Can Unlock Your Child’s Greater Health, Learning, and PotentialWould like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 94 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at

Welcome back, Thrivers, to another baby bite-sized episode. This short and gentle conversation is for the parents who don’t often feel seen in baby sleep spaces. The ones whose babies settle well with space, sleep independently, and don’t always need to be held to drift off, yet somehow feel guilt or quiet shame because of it.In this episode, we explore why it’s not only possible, but completely healthy, for some babies to feel safe and secure outside of arms. We unpack the many reasons this can happen, from early exposure to multiple safe sleep spaces, emerging self-soothing skills, and temperament, to regulation, responsiveness, and the emotional tools parents bring into the relationship.This episode gently challenges the belief that secure attachment is measured by exhaustion, constant proximity, or how much a baby needs you at night. Instead, it reframes attachment as responsiveness, trust, emotional availability, and meeting needs when they arise, not forcing closeness when it isn’t needed.If you’ve ever felt triggered by online conversations about baby sleep, questioned yourself because your experience looks different, or wondered whether you’re doing it wrong because things are actually going well, this episode is for you.You’re not doing something wrong. You’re responding to your baby.And that matters more than the noise.Inside this episode:Why some babies genuinely sleep better with spaceHow temperament and regulation influence sleepThe hidden identity shifts that come with easier sleepWhy secure attachment isn’t about where or how your baby sleepsLetting go of guilt and trusting your baby as your guideBook: Discover How Airway Health Can Unlock Your Child’s Greater Health, Learning, and PotentialWould like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 93 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

In this grounding and deeply validating episode, Jen unpacks one of the most misunderstood parts of modern parenting: the difference between co-regulating and controlling. On the surface, our responses can look the same, but underneath, the energy is completely different — and it’s often our own nervous system, not our child’s emotions, driving the moment.Jen walks you through why young children cannot regulate on their own in the early years, what true co-regulation looks like, and the subtle ways we may accidentally slip into control when our own triggers, childhood patterns, or overwhelm take over.Inside the episode, you’ll learn:Why co-regulation was never meant to burn you outHow generational patterns shape the way you respond to cryingWhy trying to “fix” emotions actually makes things harderWhat your child really needs during big feelings (hint: not perfection)Five simple, practical ways to support emotional regulation without losing yourselfJen also explores how our instinct to stop tears — in children and adults — often interrupts the emotional release our bodies are designed for. She shares how shifting from fixing to anchoring can change the entire experience for both you and your child.This episode is full of compassion, clarity, and real-world tools to help you respond with presence rather than pressure, attunement rather than anxiety, and confidence rather than exhaustion.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 92 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

In this deeply honest and emotional episode, Jen sits down with mindset coach and soon-to-be mum, Breanna May, to unpack the side of IVF that doesn’t make it onto the glossy brochures. From being labelled “high risk” after multiple cervical procedures, to navigating distrust in the medical system, fear of needles, and the grief of failed transfers, Breanna takes us inside the reality of trying to conceive when it wasn’t supposed to be this hard.Breanna shares how she moved from resisting IVF to finally surrendering to support, the mental gymnastics of reframing daily injections as “baby juice,” and the moment everything changed during her second transfer – from a shooting-star embryo on the screen to reading “pregnant” on a test while camping with her husband. She also reflects on how IVF impacted her identity, body image, relationship, and ultimately, her belief in her own body again.In this episode, you’ll hear:Breanna’s journey from “I’ll fall pregnant easily” to years of unexplained infertilityHow past cervical surgeries turned her pregnancy into “high risk” and complicated embryo transferThe mindset shift that helped her finally accept IVF and reframe injections as an act of lovePractical tips to survive the wait after transfer (and why staying busy matters)The power of surrender and belief: “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.”If you’re walking the IVF path, feeling like you “shouldn’t” be here or wondering how much more you can take, this conversation is a tender, validating reminder that you’re not alone – and that hope can still live inside a really hard story.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 91 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

In this baby bite-sized episode, Jen breaks down one of the most common modern parenting dilemmas: “Does that quick car nap actually count—and what should I do next?”If you've ever rushed home for nap time only to face a failed transfer, a full-blown nap protest, or a suddenly wide-awake baby, this episode gives you the clarity and calm you need.Jen explains why on-the-go dozes and mini car snoozes can completely reset sleep pressure—especially for babies under six months and why heading straight to the bedroom often backfires. Instead, she guides you through what actually works: slow transitions, gentle interaction, and watching for fresh sleep cues rather than watching the clock.You’ll learn:Why a 10–15 minute car nap can wipe out more sleep pressure than you thinkWhen a transfer might work—and when it absolutely won’tHow to create a short “adjustment window” at home so your baby can reset before the napWhat to do differently if they only dozed off versus slept for 20+ minutesHow to honour your baby’s nervous system and your own, so naps feel less stressful for everyoneWhy flexibility and compassion matter far more than perfect timingJen also shares her own relatable “please don’t fall asleep yet!” car moments because we’ve all been there, and gives you permission to adapt, reset, and trust the process.You’ll walk away knowing exactly what to do after an on-the-go snooze, how to prevent a nap battle, and how to stay grounded when routines don’t go to plan.A gentle reminder to take with you:A short car nap doesn’t always mean an easy transfer. Give your baby time to adjust, follow their cues, and trust your own instincts. You’re not failing—you’re finding your rhythm.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 90 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

In this episode of Thriving Parenting, Jen dives into pram sleep and motion sleep – the good, the tricky, and how to set pram naps up so they support both your baby and your sanity.She starts by revisiting her popular “10–10–10 Rule” for pockets of connection, sharing real stories from families who’ve used it to transform challenging behaviour and create more harmony at home. From there, she guides you through the world of pram naps: why they work, how they support your baby’s nervous system and body clock, and how they can give you some much-needed breathing space in your day.Drawing on her own experience with three children (including seasons of multiple kids under five and life overseas), Jen breaks down practical, compassionate steps to help you feel confident using pram naps without guilt, fear of “junk sleep,” or pressure to get it perfect.In this episode, you’ll learn:How the 10–10–10 Rule sets up cooperation, eases tricky moments, and helps you feel more like the parent you want to be.Why naps on the go are not junk sleep, and how motion, gentle rocking and outdoor light support your baby’s nervous system, circadian rhythm, and sense of safety.How pram naps looked different with each child, from “nice to have” with her first, to essential with a toddler in tow, to ultra-flexible naps while living in South Korea.Six practical steps to make pra naps workHow to tell the difference between tired/frustrated cries and “this is too much” stress, when to keep gently supporting, and when to pick up, reset, or transfer.Why shorter pram naps as babies grow are normalWhat to expect as your baby becomes more aware, and how to work with changing nap lengths without panicking.How a simple pram nap – a walk outside, a quiet coffee, a few minutes to actually breathe – can reset your nervous system and increase your patience for the rest of the day.Jen closes with a reminder that neither you nor your baby are robots, and that flexibility, repetition, and self-kindness are some of the most powerful parenting tools you have.Get the Free Awake Times Guide: https://sleepthrivegrow.com/ https://lullabump.com/products/lullabump-1?srsltid=AfmBOoqRL11x1LiVd5zU4AOVCS77GEn_anoqdPTUmJSSocJj4JA6owEkWould like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 89 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

In this heartfelt episode of Thriving Parenting, Jen is joined once again by Dr. Bianca Mastromanno, clinical psychologist and mother of two, to explore one of the most powerful skills we can develop as parents — helping our children (and ourselves) feel safe with big emotions.Together, they unpack why feelings can be so hard to sit with, how our own upbringing shapes the way we respond to emotions, and what it really means to emotionally coach our kids — without trying to fix, rush, or rescue their feelings.From real-life motherhood stories to practical, compassionate insights, this episode helps you embrace imperfection, build emotional trust, and navigate those intense moments with more calm and connection.In This Episode:The impact of our own emotional history on how we respond to our child’s feelingsWhy “good girl/boy” or “stop crying” messages affect emotional safetyWhat emotion coaching really means (and why it starts with your own awareness)How to validate your child’s emotions without rewarding unwanted behaviourUnderstanding guilt vs shame and how self-compassion transforms parentingThe balance between empathy, boundaries, and allowing healthy discomfortWhy repair after rupture matters more than getting it perfect every timeParenting isn’t about eliminating your child’s big feelings, it’s about being their safe place while they learn to move through them. When you show them that emotions are safe, you teach them resilience that lasts a lifetime.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 88 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

Are you feeling torn between what you “should” do and what actually feels right for your family? In this bite-size episode, Jen shares five powerful reflection questions to help you reconnect with your instincts and find balance when baby sleep feels confusing, overwhelming, or stuck.These questions are designed from real conversations with parents who’ve been exactly where you are — caught between expert advice, exhaustion, and guilt. Jen helps you gently tune out the noise, explore what you truly want for your family, and discover a version of sleep that feels sustainable for both you and your child.You’ll be invited to reflect on:What would you change if there was no guilt or fear?What does sleep look like if it works for everyone?Are your beliefs helping or limiting your growth?What makes change feel impossible?Is your motivation coming from you — or outside pressure?This episode isn’t about following a formula. It’s about creating space to get curious, honor your needs as a parent, and find a flexible middle ground that feels aligned with your values.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 87 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

Why does bedtime often feel like a battle? In this episode of Thriving Parenting, we explore what’s really behind those nightly clashes, and it’s not about sleep. It’s about connection, capacity, and energy.Jen unpacks the real reason bedtime feels so hard: your exhaustion meets your child’s deep need for closeness. You’ll learn how to shift this dynamic with simple, realistic strategies that bring calm back into the evening routine. In this episode:Why bedtime resistance is a sign of unmet connection, not “bad behaviour”How to create a calm transition from awake time to sleep timeThe power of small, quality moments of connection before bedChecking your emotional capacity and resetting through the dayPractical tools to make nights smoother (even when you’re exhausted)Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 86 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

Feeling cooked, burnt out, and running on fumes? In this conversation, Jen sits down with trauma-informed breathwork facilitator Kellie Blinco to unpack two deceptively simple practices—Yoga Nidra (non-sleep deep rest) and conscious breathwork that can reset your nervous system, sharpen your focus, and help you feel human again. Kellie shares her personal path from chronic dysregulation to healing, why a 21-minute Yoga Nidra can feel like 3–4 hours of restorative sleep, and how different breathwork styles from gentle diaphragmatic breathing to conscious connected breathwork—support real emotional processing (not just “thinking about it”). You’ll hear practical tips for mums and time-poor parents, what to expect in a session, how safety and facilitation matter, and why the attempt to outrun pain often creates more of it.Kellie Blinco is the founder of Feather & Sage Bloom studio in Joondalup (WA). Trauma-informed facilitator specialising in Yoga Nidra, gentle breathwork, and conscious connected breathwork.What we cover:Kellie’s journey: from nervous system dysregulation to plant-medicine insights and finding breath as a legal, accessible healing pathwayYoga Nidra basics: seven guided stages, accessing theta brainwaves, and why stillness mattersWhy 21 minutes is enough: the science-adjacent rationale for deep mental relaxation in light-sleep statesNon-sleep deep rest (NSDR) for parents: quick recovery when real naps aren’t happeningBreathwork 101: box breathing vs. gentle diaphragmatic breath vs. conscious connected breathworkMental vs. body resistance: how to tell the difference and work safelyFinishing stress cycles: releasing stored emotions somatically (not just talking about them)Safety, set & setting: the role of a trauma-informed facilitator and consent-led pacingReal-world outcomes: clarity, energy, lowered mental chatter, and softer reactivity in day-to-day parentingWould like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 85 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

In this bite-size episode of Thriving Parenting, we’re flipping the script on one of the most common bedtime rituals—reading a book before sleep. While storytime is often seen as a cornerstone of early parenting routines, Jen explores why it might actually be too stimulating for some babies and young toddlers.She unpacks the signs that a bedtime book may be delaying rather than supporting sleep—like restlessness, over-engagement, and long settling times—and shares gentle adjustments parents can make to create calmer, smoother nights. From shifting storytime earlier in the evening to toning down animated reading voices, Jen offers practical ways to tailor bedtime to your child’s age, temperament, and needs.For parents of older toddlers and preschoolers, she highlights how connection-focused books can still play a beautiful role in filling up emotional cups before sleep. Jen even shares her favourite reads, like More Than by Hayley M. Willis and The Invisible String by Patrice Karst, to nurture security and connection at bedtime.The takeaway? There’s no universal right or wrong routine—just what works best for you and your baby. Sometimes, skipping the bedtime story is the kindest thing you can do for a restful night.Key Takeaways:Some babies find bedtime stories too stimulating—watch for restlessness or long settling times.Try moving reading earlier or softening your tone to create a calmer wind-down.For older toddlers, choose connection-rich stories that reassure and soothe.There are no “shoulds” in parenting—trust what works for your family.Recommended Books:More Than by Hayley M. WillisThe Invisible String by Patrice KarstListen now on Thriving Parenting and discover how rethinking your nighttime routine could transform your evenings.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 84 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

In this episode of Thriving Parenting, host Jen introduces two simple yet powerful practices that can completely transform your family’s connection and calm — the 10:10:10 Rule and the 10-Minute Do Nothing Rule.Jen shares how these time-tested tools helped her navigate early motherhood with three kids under five and a husband often away for work. Through small, intentional moments — 10 minutes after waking, 10 minutes when reuniting, and 10 minutes before bedtime. She discovered how meaningful connections can shift behaviour, reduce overwhelm, and bring more joy into the home.You’ll also learn why doing nothing for 10 minutes with your child is one of the most productive things you can do — no instructions, no multitasking, just being present.By focusing on connection over perfection, you’ll see more calm, more cooperation, and more closeness in your family life. Jen reminds us: “Connection is why we’re here — it’s what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.”Tune in to learn how just 30 minutes a day can change everything — for you and your child.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 83 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

Snoring in kids is often brushed off as “cute” or “normal” - but did you know it can actually be a hidden red flag for serious health issues? In this episode of Thriving Parenting, we’re joined by paediatric ENT surgeon and sleep expert Dr. David McIntosh to unpack the truth about sleep disordered breathing in children.We dive into:Why snoring is never just harmless noise in kidsThe link between sleep disordered breathing and behaviour, focus, and growthHow to spot early warning signs parents often missPractical steps to seek help and treatmentIf your child snores, mouth breathes, or struggles with restless sleep, this conversation is a must-listen. Learn how early intervention can make a life-changing difference to your child’s wellbeing, development, and future health.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 82 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

If you’ve ever found yourself wide awake at 2 a.m. with a baby who is not crying, not hungry, but instead happily babbling, standing in the cot, or ready to start the day—you’ve met the world of split nights. These long stretches of middle-of-the-night wakefulness can feel confusing and exhausting for parents, especially when your little one seems perfectly content while you’re desperate for sleep. In this bite-size episode of Thriving Parenting, we unpack what’s really going on during split nights, why they happen, and how you can gently guide your baby or toddler back toward more restful, consolidated sleep.You’ll learn:What split nights really are (and how they differ from regular night wakings).Why they happen—from developmental leaps to a mismatch between circadian rhythm and sleep pressure.Why they’re actually normal Practical steps to help—including adjusting naps, bedtime, and wake times, plus keeping things calm and boring at night.Real client stories that show how small tweaks can make a big difference.Split nights might be normal, but they don’t have to derail your family’s sleep. With the right strategies, patience, and consistency, you can support your child back into more restful nights.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 81 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

This episode of Thriving Parent-ing dives beneath sleep tactics into the stories we tell ourselves—especially in hard moments. Through a real Sleep Godmother client case, we surface three common beliefs that stall progress, unpack why they feel so true in the moment, and show how nervous-system-first tools help you move from stuck to steady, with changes that actually last.What you'll learn:The 3 sticky stories that keep parents looping at sleep timeWhy crying with a caregiver present is not harmful—and how co-regulation builds safety and resilienceHow your brain’s survival wiring (fight/flight/freeze) makes old patterns feel “safer” than changeThe difference between short-lived stress of change vs ongoing stress of fragmented sleepWorking within your (and your child’s) challenge zone so change is doable, not overwhelmingA practical, step-by-step way to pace adjustments and keep momentumWould like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 80 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers

Becoming parents is one of the biggest shifts a relationship can ever go through—and yet, no one really prepares you for what happens between you and your partner after kids. In this episode of Thriving Parenting, we sit down with Leonie Akhidenor, relationship coach, mum of two, and host of Parenthood Podcast, to talk honestly about what really changes.  Her podcast Parenthood was a 2024 Australian Podcast Awards finalist. You’ll hear why even the strongest couples experience comparison, resentment, and disconnection in the early years and how those same challenges can actually build a stronger foundation when navigated with awareness and care.We’ll talk about:Why relationships always change after children—and why that’s not a bad thingThe comparison game: how sleep deprivation and imbalance fuel tit-for-tat thinkingResentment, guilt, and mourning your old life—normal emotions no one talks aboutThe mental load and why partners aren’t mind readersIntimacy after birth and why connection looks different in this seasonHow to ask for help in ways that actually landMicro-moments of reconnection and why they matter more than grand gesturesThe importance of seeking support whether through honest conversations or professional helpIf you’ve ever found yourself wondering “are we okay?” in the chaos of new parenthood, this episode is here to reassure you that you’re not alone. Relationships don’t stay the same after kids—and that’s the point. With compassion, communication, and a little creativity, they can become stronger than ever.Would like to access tailored 1:1 sleep support but don’t know where to start? Jump on a FREE sleep clarity session with Jen here https://sleepthrivegrow.com/For more information on this topic, head to the show notes: Episode 79 Show NotesAnd I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Come and connect with me on Instagram at @sleep_thrive_grow.And click the +Follow button to never miss an episode. New episodes are released every Tuesday!To find out more about how I can support you, visit my website here. Until next time, Thrivers