When You’re Tired Too: Sleep Tips for Parents
You’re Not Just the Helper
When your baby or toddler isn’t sleeping well, it’s not just their rest that suffers, it’s yours too. And while most sleep advice focuses on the child (understandably), I want to pause and say this: your sleep matters too.
You’re not a robot. You’re a parent doing your best on very little rest, and that deserves care, not just coping.
Why Parental Sleep Gets Overlooked
It’s easy to put your own needs last when you’re in survival mode. But chronic sleep deprivation can affect:
Mood and patience
Decision-making
Physical health
Your ability to respond calmly to your child
You don’t need perfect sleep to feel better but small shifts can help you feel more like yourself again.
Gentle Sleep Tips for Tired Parents
Here are a few realistic ways to protect your rest (even in the middle of sleep challenges):
Lower the bar at night Not every wake-up needs a full response. If your baby is safe and just stirring, try pausing before jumping in.
Share the load If you have a partner, take turns with wake-ups or early mornings. Even one extra hour can help.
Nap when they nap (sometimes) It’s not always possible, but if you’re truly exhausted, rest > laundry.
Create a wind-down for yourself Even 10 minutes of quiet(no screens, no to-do lists) can help your brain shift into sleep mode.
Ask for help Whether it’s a friend, family member, or sleep consultant, support is not a weakness - it’s a strength.
You Deserve Rest Too
As a sleep consultant, I care just as much about how you feel as how your child sleeps. Because when you’re rested, you can show up with more calm, more clarity, and more compassion.
If you’re running on empty, please know: you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
Need support that includes you too?
👉 Book a free consultation
👉 Download my free sleep diary to spot patterns and take pressure off