Thriving Parent-ing

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

In this bite-size episode of Thriving Parenting, we unpack one of the most common sleep questions parents ask: Do babies really need a nightlight?Host Jen takes you through the science of circadian rhythms, melatonin, and how light exposure affects sleep. You’ll discover why complete darkness is best for little ones under two, why separation anxiety (not fear of the dark) is often behind bedtime struggles, and simple strategies like dimming the house lights, leaving the door ajar, or using hallway light to ease the transition to sleep.For toddlers over two, when imagination and genuine fears of the dark can appear, Jen shares when and how a soft, warm nightlight might help—plus tips for using it without disrupting sleep.This episode is packed with practical advice, personal stories, and gentle reminders that parenting is about experimenting, connecting, and finding what works best for your family.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 78 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

Sleep associations are one of the most misunderstood topics in parenting—often surrounded by guilt, pressure, and myths. In this episode of Thriving Parenting, we’re breaking it all down and reframing what sleep associations really mean for you and your baby.You’ll learn why sleep associations aren’t “bad habits” but instead powerful tools for connection, safety, and trust. From rocking and feeding to sleep, to white noise, bedtime routines, and comforters, these cues are the building blocks of how babies feel safe enough to drift off.We’ll talk about:Why every human (babies and adults alike) has sleep associationsThe difference between perspective and perception when it comes to your child’s view of safetyHow instinct and biology shape your baby’s need for connectionWhen and how to gently shift sleep associations if they’re no longer working for you or your childMyths about “bad habits” and why they aren’t trueWhy your bond with your baby won’t break if things change—it can actually grow strongerIf you’ve ever worried about creating “rods for your back” with rocking, feeding, or cuddling your baby to sleep—this episode will give you relief, clarity, and confidence. Because sleep isn’t about habits; it’s about safety, connection, and love.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 77 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 sits down with remedial massage therapist who specialises in nervous system healing Mel Gorry to explore how stress and trauma show up in our bodies—and most importantly, how we can release them. Mel shares her personal journey of living with cystic fibrosis, facing medical trauma, and discovering the healing impact of bodywork. Together, they unpack why the nervous system often holds onto unresolved experiences, how tension hides in our fascia, and the real-life signs that your body might be crying out for release.From birth trauma to childhood anxiety, migraines to “mum overwhelm,” Mel offers compassionate, practical ways to reconnect with your body and bring it back into balance. You’ll also hear stories of transformation from her clients and learn simple steps—like breathwork, grounding, and mindful movement—that you can start using today to build nervous system flexibility.If you’ve ever felt stuck in stress, constantly on edge, or disconnected from your body, this episode is a gentle reminder that healing is possible—and it starts with listening to the wisdom your body already holds.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 76 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-sized episode of Thriving Parenting, we unpack a powerful reframe that could change the way you approach your baby’s rest. If you’ve ever felt the pressure of “getting” your baby to sleep, you’re not alone — but that hyperfocus can actually make the process more challenging for both of you.Discover why sleep isn’t something we can force, how control can trigger stress responses, and why safety and connection are the real foundations for peaceful rest. Learn practical ways to shift from making sleep happen to creating an environment where it happens naturally — building trust, tuning into cues, and supporting your child’s growing independence.If sleep has started to feel like a battle, this episode will help you find a calmer, more connected path forward.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 75 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

When sickness hits your household, especially your little one, it can rattle routines and unearth a wave of panic—especially around sleep. In this heartfelt and informative bite-sized episode, we explore how to navigate your child’s sleep during times of illness, leaning into rest rather than fearing regression.Bringing her dual perspective as a nurse and mother, your host shares valuable insights on modelling calm during sickness, understanding how family history impacts our responses, and how different child temperaments—whether orchid, tulip, or dandelion—cope with being unwell. She also breaks down when to let your child sleep more, when to gently guide them back into rhythm, and how to offer support without unraveling the whole sleep routine.From tips on upright contact naps and steam showers to the power of honey, humidifiers, and holding space, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you surrender the fear, honour your child’s needs, and feel more grounded through the healing journey.What You’ll Learn:How your personal illness history shapes your parentingWhy your child’s temperament matters during sicknessWhen extra sleep is helpful—and when it may be disruptingPractical supports: medications, naps, contact comfort, and sleep routinesWhy 'less is more' when offering sleep support—and how to build it graduallyIllness is part of parenting. But it doesn't have to unravel everything. Learn how to support your child’s rest with calm, confidence, and compassion—even when things feel tough.🎧 Listen now and feel empowered to parent through illness with more ease.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 74 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 and empowering episode of Thriving Parenting, we’re joined by community midwife and mother of four, Deyana — founder of Pregnancy Practice Perth. Deyana shares her deeply personal journey from nurse to midwife, and the moment a conversation with two strangers at a restaurant changed her career — and her calling — forever.Together, we explore the full arc of pregnancy and postpartum care, the importance of continuity of care from the moment you wee on that stick through to the raw and beautiful postpartum period, and why every woman deserves personalised, respectful, and holistic support. Deyana opens up about the joys of being with women through labour, the grief of miscarriage, the healing that comes through debriefing birth experiences, and the mental and physical preparation that transforms the birthing journey.Key takeaways include:The power of education and mindset in labourWhy postpartum recovery is often overlookedHow to emotionally and physically prepare for birthWhat women really need after an unexpected outcomeAnd beautiful words of wisdom to remind every mum: “You are not alone. You are doing an amazing job.”Whether you’re expecting, healing, or reflecting on your own birth story — this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and uplifted.Connect with Deyana:Website: pregnancypracticeperth.com.auInstagram: @pregnancypracticeperthWould 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 73 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 heart-to-heart solo episode of Thriving Parenting, we unpack what really happens when connection slips with our kids—and how it shows up in their behaviour, especially around sleep. Jen shares a raw, real-life story about a rushed evening that left her children unsettled and what it revealed about their individual connection needs.Through personal reflections and practical tools, you’ll learn:Why connection is a core human need, not just a “nice-to-have”How different children show their connection-seeking in unique waysThe surprising link between connection and smoother bedtimesThe simple shift that changed both behaviour and sleep for her familyWhy solo parenting days (like FIFO life) can amplify connection gaps—and what helpsA refreshingly honest look at self-care, self-regulation, and their impact on parentingThis episode is a gentle reminder: when your child’s behaviour is louder, clingier, or more emotional—chances are they’re craving connection, not control.You’ll walk away with practical ideas like:— Easy connection rituals before separations like bedtime or drop-offs— The magic of 10 intentional minutes to start your day— How to rethink “bad behaviour” as connection-seeking cues— Using connection as a powerful tool for co-regulation, not just complianceThis conversation will help you shift from frustration to empathy, reconnect with your little humans more intentionally, and even make sleep smoother along the way.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 72 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