Thriving Parent-ing

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

In this bite-sized episode of Thriving Parenting, we dive into the ins and outs of bridging naps—the handy little power naps that can help you survive tricky days with babies and toddlers.You’ll learn:What exactly is a bridging nap and how it worksWhen to use it (and when it might backfire)Why it’s especially helpful for babies under six monthsReal-life examples for toddlers and older babiesTroubleshooting tips for early risers and nap refusalsFrom newborns waking at 5 AM to toddlers crashing after playgroup, this episode is packed with practical tips and relatable stories (including soggy netball mornings and motocross wins!).You’ll walk away with another great tool for your parenting toolbox—perfect for navigating nap gaps, early wake-ups, and overtired little ones.👉 Got your own nap-time story? Message us on Instagram or inside the Thriving Together membership—let’s talk sleep wins and struggles!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 71 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 validating and enlightening episode, your host welcomes Emma Snelgar—Mental Health Nurse, ex-midwife, birth therapist, and founder of Empower Matrescence. Emma supports women across Australia in processing difficult, disappointing, or traumatic birth and postpartum experiences, offering in-home sessions in Perth and Telehealth options nationwide.Together, we unpack:What birth trauma really means (and who defines it)How to identify the signs that your birth may still be impacting you—weeks, months, or even years laterThe emotional and physical responses often misunderstood as just “new mum stuff”Why grief, anger, and disappointment after birth are valid, even if you had a "healthy baby"The protective power of birth debriefing and why it's never too lateThe essential but under-discussed transformation of matrescence—the emotional, hormonal, social, and neurological shift from woman to motherEmma shares her professional insights, her personal experiences, and the systemic challenges faced by both mothers and care providers. She also offers empowering suggestions for preparing for birth and reclaiming your story—no matter where you are on your parenting journey.Whether you’re a new mum, planning your next birth, or still processing one years later—this conversation is a reminder: your experience matters.Guest Bio:Emma Snelgar is a Mental Health Nurse, birth therapist, and former midwife, specialising in supporting women who have experienced traumatic or emotionally difficult births and postpartum periods. Through her private practice, Empower Matrescence, she offers compassionate, trauma-informed support to help mothers debrief, process, and heal. Emma sees clients in-home across the Perth metro area and via Telehealth for women throughout Australia. She will soon offer Medicare rebates for eligible sessions.Connect with Emma:Website: www.empowermatrescence.comInstagram: @empowermatrescenceWould 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 70 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, we explore why co-regulation is more than a trendy term—it’s an essential tool to help your child feel safe, connected, and understood. Jen paints relatable scenarios, like calming a baby after vaccinations or soothing a toddler mid-meltdown, to illustrate how your nervous system influences your child’s.You’ll learn:What co-regulation actually is (and what it isn’t)How it wires your child’s brain for future self-regulationWhy you can’t co-regulate when you’re dysregulated yourselfSimple frameworks to anchor yourself before you step in to helpWhy “saying less and being more” is often the best approachHow to handle common barriers like sensory overload, exhaustion, and unhelpful cultural adviceJen also shares powerful reminders: that self-care isn’t selfish, and your calm presence is the ultimate gift to your child’s emotional development.Key Takeaway:Co-regulation is about lending your steady nervous system so your child learns they are safe in all their feelings. When you prioritise your own regulation first, you create a foundation of trust, resilience, and lifelong emotional strength.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 69 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

Is swaddling a newborn essential—or outdated? In this bite-sized episode, we unravel The Great Swaddle Debate by breaking down the why, when, and how of swaddling. Drawing on expert guidance from Red Nose Australia, personal parenting experience, and client insights, we explore the pros and cons of swaddling, when to stop, and how to make smooth transitions that support both your baby’s development and sleep.From the science behind the startle reflex to tips on choosing the right wrap—and what to do when your baby "hates" the swaddle—we cover it all. We also offer step-by-step guidance for transitioning to arms-out sleeping, handling regressions, and navigating those first few months with gentleness and flexibility. Spoiler: there’s no one-size-fits-all.Whether you’re a swaddle loyalist, a curious questioner, or ready to ditch the wrap, this episode will help you feel more confident in meeting your baby right where they’re at—with calm, intention, and care.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why swaddling can soothe an overstimulated nervous systemWhen (and how) to transition out of the swaddle safelyHow to support your baby’s sleep while honouring their developmentRed Nose Australia guidelines for swaddling and safe sleepTools and timing for different swaddling stages (wraps, ergo pouch, Love to Dream, etc.)Tips for gradually unswaddling—without chaosWould 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 68 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 refreshingly honest episode of Thriving Parenting, we’re joined by the incredible Sarah Chelle, a warm and science-savvy naturopath who helps frazzled, fatigued women feel vibrant and alive again—without fad diets or guilt.Together, we unravel the misunderstood truth about cortisol—a hormone often blamed but rarely understood—and explore how its dysregulation is impacting mums beyond the newborn phase. From why you might feel more tired after finally getting some sleep, to what Sarah calls the “cortisol crash”, this episode brings compassionate insight into the biology behind maternal exhaustion.Sarah breaks down five of the most common (and commonly missed) reasons mums feel constantly drained, including:Sleep deprivationCortisol dysregulation (low cortisol, not high!)Iron deficiencyProtein/calorie deficienciesPostpartum thyroiditisYou’ll learn how to distinguish between “normal tiredness” and when it’s time to investigate deeper, plus easy, actionable tips for rebuilding energy—like nap strategies, vitamin C & magnesium support, and adjusting workouts to your body's true needs.Whether you’re feeling snappy, foggy, or just not quite you, this episode is a permission slip to pause, check in, and finally put your own wellbeing on the priority list.What You’ll Walk Away With:A new, empowering understanding of cortisol and its role in your body.Clarity on why sleep isn’t always the fix for your fatigue.The signs of deeper energy imbalances—and what to test for.Holistic, mum-friendly strategies to start feeling like yourself again.Connect with Sarah Chelle:Website: sarahchelle.comInstagram: @sarah_chelle_Podcast: The Healthiest & Happy PodcastWould 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 67 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

Welcome back, Thrivers! This episode is your permission slip to finally prioritise you—and not just in theory. This is part two of a powerful two-part series on reclaiming your energy and recharging your parenting battery, not out of guilt, but out of necessity. If you haven’t caught part one yet, pause and go back—it’s a must-listen foundation on recognising the signs of depletion and why recharging matters.In part two, we get practical and actionable. This is where the real change begins.Host Jen shares her real-life strategies and lived experience as a mum navigating the messy, beautiful chaos of parenthood. You’ll walk away with:Quick top-ups that take five minutes or less (think: intentional sips of tea, grounding breathwork, or barefoot moments in nature).Intentional pauses—daily maintenance rituals to prevent burnout before it starts.Long-term deposits like therapy, solo time, and setting boundaries that give your energy back tenfold.This isn’t a list of things to "add to your to-do list"—this is an invitation to try what fits you. You’ll hear about:The power of dancing in the kitchen with your kidsThe magic of putting your phone down and picking up your joyWhy a red light sauna + ice bath date changed everything for Jen and her partnerCreating a life where joy, presence, and calm aren’t a luxury—they’re the baselineWhether you’re down to your last bar or looking to maintain the charge you’ve got, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired to give yourself the care you’ve been giving everyone else.Ready to plug in and fill your cup your way? Tune in now and grab what you need—ASAP.🧡 P.S. Want to surround yourself with others doing the same? The Thriving Together membership is open and ready to welcome you. Join the community that gets it. You’re not meant to do this alone.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 66 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 powerful and deeply relatable episode of Thriving Parenting, we ask a surprising but vital question: Are you parenting on 1% battery? Host Jen invites you to reflect on your emotional and physical energy like you would the charge on your phone — and what happens when you try to run everything on empty.Using the clever metaphor of a mobile phone, we explore what it really means to be depleted, how your “body budget” gets drained, and why the constant grind isn’t a reflection of your worth — it’s a sign you need to recharge.If you’ve ever snapped at your kids over spilled water, fantasised about bedtime at 3:47 PM, or felt the weight of “mum” for the 50th time in one hour, this episode will feel like a warm, understanding hug. You are not broken — you are just running low.You’ll learn:How to recognise the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs of depletionWhy rest and recharge are not selfish, but essentialHow to shift out of survival mode into sustainable parentingWhat guilt and shame cycles are really telling youPlus, a sneak peek of Part 2 — dropping next Tuesday — where you’ll get practical, doable ways to start filling your cup (no, it doesn’t require a spa day or hours of free time).Join the Conversation:What’s your “low battery” moment? Share with us on Instagram @ThrivingParentingPod or tag us in your stories.🔗 Sign up to Thriving Togetherhttps://sleepthrivegrow.com/thriving-togetherWould 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 65 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 but powerful episode of Thriving Parenting, we're challenging one of the most common yet misunderstood sleep strategies: “drowsy but awake.” If you’ve tried this method and it’s leading to frustration, short naps, or endless crying fits—this episode is for you.Inspired by a heartfelt email from a mum navigating this very challenge with her four-month-old, we unpack why this method can stop working around the time of sleep maturation, how babies interpret safety in transitions, and why it’s not your fault when the method doesn’t stick.You’ll learn:Why babies wake during transfers—even when deeply drowsyHow their developing brains perceive sudden environmental changesWhy the shift at 3.5 to 5 months makes “drowsy but awake” unravelHow temperament, sleep pressure, and developmental stages impact sleepWhy it's okay to pivot and what to try insteadHost Jen, reassures parents that failing at this method is not failing at parenting. It’s a sign of growth—for your baby and for you.Learn more about the Thriving Together Membership and the Arms to Cot Coaching Course, now available at a launch discount. You’ll get the step-by-step support to help your baby see the cot as a safe, restful space—without 75 attempts per nap.🔗 Sign up to Thriving Togetherhttps://sleepthrivegrow.com/thriving-togetherWould 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 64 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 soul-nourishing episode, we explore the transformative power of music therapy with Tara Del Borrello, a Registered and Neurologic Music Therapist and the founder of Sol Music Therapy. Tara specialises in paediatric healthcare, supporting infants through to adolescents of all abilities—including children with developmental, neurological, and mental health needs, as well as those in oncology and end-of-life care.Whether your child has additional needs or you're simply looking for more meaningful ways to connect at home, Tara offers a wealth of practical tools, heartfelt stories, and professional insights into how music can become a powerful therapeutic tool for families.💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:What music therapy really is and how it differs from music educationHow music supports emotional regulation, motor skills, social development, and communicationEasy ways to use music at home—even if you don’t consider yourself musicalWhy co-regulation and feeling safe are the foundation for any child's developmentThe science behind how music activates the whole brain and boosts learningHow music helps children through medical journeys, including hospital stays and oncology treatmentsAbout Tara Del Borrello:Tara works at Perth Children’s Hospital in Oncology and Haematology, where she provides music therapy to support children and their families throughout their medical journey. Through her private practice, Sol Music Therapy, she offers both individual sessions and group programs that support early childhood development and infant and perinatal mental health.Her work is grounded in evidence-based, strengths-based, and family-centred care—tailored to each child’s unique goals and developmental needs.Where to Find Tara:In-person sessions:Fremantle clinic (Mondays)Baby Steps Subiaco (Thursdays)Website: solmusictherapy.com.auInstagram: @sol.musictherapy🔗 Sign up to Thriving Togetherhttps://sleepthrivegrow.com/thriving-togetherWould 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/https://sleepthrivegrow.com/post/how-music-helps-you-and-your-kids-thrivenotes: Episode 63 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, we explore the deep emotional layers often overlooked when trying to solve ongoing baby sleep challenges. If you've ever bought all the guides, tried all the strategies, and still feel stuck, overwhelmed, or on the verge of burnout—this one's for you.Jen unpacks the hidden reason why strategies fall flat: unresolved stress, nervous system dysregulation, and the weight of doing it all while feeling unsupported. Through personal insight, lived experience, and client stories, she explains why you matter just as much as your baby does in the sleep journey—and how recognising your own needs is the missing link to real, lasting change.She also introduces the brand-new Thriving Together Membership—a nurturing, non-judgemental space for stressed parents to heal, grow, and finally feel supported. Expect weekly live Q&As, monthly masterclasses, and a village that gets it.Join now for just $66 for 3 months until 1st June 2025 and lock in this low price for life.🔗 Sign up to Thriving Togetherhttps://sleepthrivegrow.com/thriving-togetherWould 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 62 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