Moving disrupts many families each year. This challenge hits hard as routines shatter and new anxieties arise in unfamiliar surroundings. You might wonder why your child, who once slept so well, now resists bedtime or wakes frequently at night. Many refer to these changes as sleep regression after a move. Numerous certified pediatric sleep consultants confirm that changes in the environment are significant triggers for sleep disruptions. And if moving is not a change, I don't know what is! Understanding these triggers and how to address them can restore peace to your nighttime routine.

What Is A Sleep Regression?
As tired as you likely are, the last thing you would want right now is to learn definitions. But it will help you better understand what you are dealing with. It basically represents periods when a child, previously sleeping well, suddenly starts waking up at night or has difficulty falling asleep. Typically, these episodes last a few weeks and are part of normal development. They usually happen before a child hits a major milestone, like crawling or walking. However, stressors like moving to a new home can intensify or trigger these phases, even without reaching milestones. By recognizing the signs early, such as increased fussiness or changes in sleep patterns, you can take steps to ease your child through this phase - and make life easier for yourself!

Try to Do Everything In Your Power To Avoid The Sleepless Nights
Before the relocation, you can lay the groundwork for smoother nights. Discuss the move openly with your child, using simple terms to explain what will happen and why.  Explain that you now live in one part of Canada, but now you need to move to another province because Daddy has found a new job, so you have more money to spend on new, amazing toys! How you do this will depend on your kid's age. No amount of explanation will help a newborn, but if you have a child ages 2+, there are ways to do this. Create a visual countdown calendar that helps them track the days until the move. This approach reduces anxiety by providing clear expectations about upcoming changes and when they will happen. Try to use the popular method of telling your kid that they need to sleep for several more nights until the move occurs. Keeping bedtime routines as regular as possible before the move also helps stabilize their sleep habits by helping prevent crankiness from tiredness. 

Outsource Help If Needed
If you find the transition overwhelming, consider outsourcing help. Calling grandparents or trusted friends to watch the kids while you nap can be a lifesaver. Even one hour of sleep during the day can help. For the relocation itself, while grandparents can help with the kids, they won't really be of much help with the moving logistics. Here, you need certified, skilled professionals who know the drill. Hiring movers will simplify your long-distance move tremendously, allowing you to focus entirely on your child’s emotions, which is all that they need in stressful times of change. They don't care about how the items are packed or how much time it takes to do that properly, but professional movers do. Their help is especially beneficial when moving across long distances, as this will mean crossing a distance over 1000 miles and potentially crossing province borders, as in the case of moving from Toronto to Alberta. Statistics show that 38,236 Ontarians moved to Alberta in 2022, so it won't be unusual if you want to do the same to enjoy the lower costs of living and short commute times, alongside other benefits.  

Set Up an Environment That Encourages Sleep
Once you arrive at your new home, prioritize setting up your child’s bedroom. Strive to replicate the feel of their old room—use the same bedding, arrange familiar toys nearby, and ensure the room is dark and quiet at night. Small details like maintaining the same room temperature can also make a big difference. These familiar elements act as cues that signal it is time for sleep, even in a new location.

Consistent Routines Are Lifesavers
Now, about consistent nap routines—they are your best ally to combat sleep regression after a move or stop them altogether. Have night and nap routines set in stone in your new home. If moving long distances within the same country, keep in mind that you might need to adjust your kids' routines by a few hours, but do it gradually. Naps will affect night sleep, and vice versa. If you haven't had them before the move, now would be a great time to start working on building one. Aim to keep bedtime and wake-up times the same every day. Routine actions, like reading a story or having a warm bath before bed, can work as a signal that it’s time to wind down. The predictability of these routines offers comfort and security, easing the stress of the new environment.

Anxiety and Stress
Address the emotional impacts of a move, too. After a transition, children might feel lost or scared in their new surroundings, which can disrupt their sleep. This is especially true in the age where their imagination starts working overtime. You can help reduce their anxiety with simple, comforting activities. For instance, spending extra time together during the day can reassure them that they are safe. This also might not be the best time to try to transition from co-sleeping to independent sleep - they will want to spend every moment with you, even when asleep.

Discuss their feelings about the move and the new house; sometimes, just talking about fears can reduce their power. Sometimes, you might have to check for monsters under the bed - no two days are the same with kids. 

Consider tools and techniques that ease stress at bedtime, too. A night light that casts soft shadows or background noise from a sound machine might help. And remember, a little extra patience goes a long way. Each child adjusts at their own pace, and support from you is their best comfort.

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your child may struggle with sleep issues that persist. If you notice signs of significant distress, such as regular nightmares or the occurrence of the split nights scenario, it might be time to seek help. A professional, such as a child psychologist or a certified sleep consultant, can offer guidance tailored to your child’s needs. They can help you understand if sleep problems are a typical part of adjusting to a new home or if they stem from deeper issues.

How Should You Take Care Of Yourself If You Don't Get Enough Sleep?
It’s vital you look after yourself - even if that might not include getting enough sleep. You won't feel good no matter what you do without proper sleep, but you should try it. Parental stress can affect children, making their adjustment to the new environment harder. Ensure you manage your stress through healthy outlets:

• Exercise regularly, even if it’s a short walk. You likely won't have energy for more than that. 
• Connect with friends and talk about your feelings. Fellow parents will understand you better. 
• Take time for activities you enjoy, even scrolling on social media, before falling asleep. 

​
A relaxed parent often means a relaxed child.

Good Luck With Potential Sleep Regression After a Move!
Understanding and patience are key in tackling sleep regression after a move. Each child is different, and their time to adjust will vary. By being consistent and acknowledging their feelings, you can help smooth their path to restful nights and, in return, get a good night's sleep yourself. Remember, this phase is temporary, and with the right support, your child will adapt and thrive in their new home.

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After working hard to get your little one sleeping well with a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, it can be daunting to think about going out for an evening. Now that the schedule is in place, you might feel like you’ll need to stay home until your child leaves home, but you still need to live your life.

Here are a few tips to help you make this work without ruining all your hard work:
Navigating Evenings Out Without Sacrificing Your Baby’s Sleep

Embrace the 80/20 Rule
The 80/20 rule is all about balance. If you stick to your baby’s sleep schedule 80% of the time, a little deviation 20% of the time won’t ruin all your progress. This mindset allows for flexibility without stress. It’s okay to bend the rules occasionally for special occasions or much-needed social time.


Plan Ahead
One of our favourite things to do when our first son was a great sleeping baby was to have dinner at friends’ houses. Here’s how you can do it too:

• Set Up a Sleep Space: Bring along a pack-and-play and set it up in a quiet room. Ensure the room is dark and conducive to sleep, just like at home. Using a SlumberPod for these occasions can be a real game changer to making sure that your baby's sleep space is set up for optimal sleep. Discount Code: tothemoonsleep
• Follow the Routine: Do a few steps of the bedtime routine to help your baby wind down. This might include a bedtime story, some quiet cuddling, or playing a lullaby.
• Enjoy Adult Time: Once your baby is asleep, spend time with your friends. Having your baby nearby in a safe sleep environment lets you relax and enjoy the evening without worrying.
• Transfer Gently: When it’s time to go home, gently transfer your baby to the car seat and then to their crib once you’re home. A smooth transition is key to minimizing disruptions. If they wake up, that is fine. Just put them back into their crib once you get home.

Having baby start out the night at a friends house might slightly disrupt the sleep schedule, but it usually won’t derail your progress. Babies are more adaptable than we often give them credit for, and a little bit of flexibility can go a long way.


Slightly Later is Okay
If you can plan your outing to be back within an hour of your baby’s usual bedtime, this slight deviation shouldn’t be too disruptive. Aim for earlier outings and stick as close to the schedule as possible. An hour’s difference is generally manageable and won’t throw off the entire routine. Just be sure to compensate with a slightly earlier nap or a more extended wind-down period the next day if needed.


Get a Sitter
Now that your baby is a champion sleeper take advantage of this by getting a sitter now and then. It’s nice to have a break and enjoy some adult time, and you can be confident that your little one is getting all the sleep they need. When choosing a sitter, find someone who understands and respects your baby’s sleep routine. This ensures consistency and helps your baby feel secure and comfortable even when you’re not there.


Communicate Clearly
Make sure anyone caring for your baby understands their sleep schedule and routine. This includes grandparents, babysitters, and even friends if you’re visiting their house. Clear communication ensures everyone is on the same page and helps maintain your baby’s sleep habits.


Be Flexible and Kind to Yourself
Remember, parenting is all about balance. It’s essential to maintain your baby’s sleep routine, but it’s also crucial to take care of your own social and emotional needs. Don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t go perfectly. Flexibility and a positive attitude will go a long way in keeping you and your baby happy and well-rested.


By following these tips, you can maintain your baby’s sleep schedule while still enjoying some much-needed social time. Remember, a well-rested parent is just as important as a well-rested baby! So, go ahead and plan that evening out—you deserve it!


When should you reach out for help from a professional?
Now, if your baby or toddler is not sleeping well and, going out with friends or getting a babysitter sounds like an absolute nightmare. It may be time to ask for help getting your little sleeper’s sleep on track. Is it time to teach your baby the skills required for independant sleep so you can do something other than get your baby to sleep? Do you long for a night out with your partner or friends?


Following the tips in this post can seem irrelevant if your baby or toddler isn’t already sleeping well. If you don’t have a good schedule already set up for your baby, it’s taking hours to get them to sleep at bedtime, only to have them wake up a couple of hours later. Then these tips are going to be lost on you.


It’s time for a change; it’s time to give your baby or toddler the gift of sleep. Book your Free 20-minute Sleep Evaluation Call with me to learn more about how I can help transform your family into a well-rested one—a family that can easily go for dinner with friends or get a babysitter for that much-needed night out and not worry about your baby’s sleep because you’re the only one that can put them to sleep.

Transitioning your child from a crib to a bed is a significant milestone. This change can be quite turbulent for both parents and children. To ensure a smooth transition, it's important to plan and prepare carefully. Here are some tips to make the process easier and less stressful for everyone involved.

Understanding the Right Time for the Move From Crib to Big Kid Bed
The right time for moving from crib to bed varies for each child. Generally, you should wait until as close to three years old as possible to ensure that your child is developmentally ready for this transition. Look for signs like your child attempting to climb out of the crib, showing interest in beds, or outgrowing the crib. These indicators can help you decide when it's time to make the switch.

However, if your child is younger than 3 years old and they are attempting to climb out of the crib you are going to want to try everything possible to keep them safely in their crib. Lower the crib mattress to the floor if it's safely possible, turn the crib around so the lower end is against the wall, turn his sleep sack around backwards so he can't get it off and can't climb over the crib railing, etc. 

Preparing for the Transition From Crib to Big Kid Bed
Involve Your Child in the Process. Including your child in the preparation process can make them feel more comfortable and excited about the change. Let them help pick out their new bed, bedding, and even the decor for their room. This involvement gives them a sense of ownership and control, making the transition smoother.

Create a Safe Sleeping Environment
Make sure the new bed is safe for your child. Choose a bed with rails to prevent falls, and place the bed on a soft surface like a rug or carpet. Remove any hazards from the room, such as sharp objects, small toys, or cords. Additionally, consider using a nightlight to provide a sense of security during the night.

Establishing a Consistent Routine
A consistent bedtime routine is crucial when moving from crib to bed. This routine helps signal your child that it’s time to sleep and can make the transition smoother. Here are some steps to consider:

• Stick to a Schedule—Maintain a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends. This helps regulate your child's internal clock and ensures they get enough sleep.
• Calming Activities—Engage your child in calming activities before bedtime, such as reading a story, taking a warm bath, or listening to soft music. These activities help relax your child and prepare them for sleep.
• Keep the Routine Simple—A simple and predictable bedtime routine is more effective. Too many activities can be overwhelming and counterproductive. Stick to a few calming activities that your child enjoys.

Dealing with Resistance and Setbacks
It's normal for children to resist moving from crib to bed or to experience setbacks. Here are some tips to handle these challenges.

Be Patient: Transitioning from a crib to a bed is a big change for your child. Be patient and understanding if they resist or take time to adjust. Offer comfort and reassurance to help them feel secure.

Be Consistent: Consistency is crucial during this transition. Stick to the bedtime routine and the new sleeping arrangement. Avoid giving in to requests to sleep in the crib or your bed, as this can create confusion.

Address Fears: Your child may experience nighttime fears during this transition. Use a nightlight, provide a favourite stuffed animal or blanket for comfort, and reassure your child that they are safe. Avoid introducing new fears by keeping the environment calm and secure.

Additional Obstacles: While moving from crib to bed is a significant transition within the home, there are times when families may face larger moves, such as relocating to a new city or province. For those considering long distance moving in Alberta, hiring professional movers can make the process much easier. This can be especially important when transitioning from a crib to a bed, which is already a big change in your child's life. Hiring movers allows you to relocate with minimal effort, focusing your energy on helping your child adjust to their new environment and sleeping arrangements. Make sure you find Alberta professionals who are experienced in relocating families and understand the challenges of such periods. 

Encouraging Independence
Moving from crib to bed is an opportunity to encourage independence in your child. Here are some ways to promote this.

Allow Choices: Give your child choices related to their new bed and bedtime routine. Let them choose their pajamas, bedtime stories, or a stuffed animal to sleep with. These choices empower your child and make them feel more in control.

Encourage Self-Soothing: Teach your child self-soothing techniques to help them fall asleep independently. This can include holding a favourite toy, using a nightlight, or listening to soft music. Gradually reduce your involvement in their bedtime routine to promote independence.

Monitoring and Adjusting
Once your child has transitioned to a bed, continue to monitor their sleep patterns and adjust as needed. Here are some tips for ongoing support.

Observe Patterns: Pay attention to your child's sleep patterns and behaviours. If they have difficulty falling asleep or wake up frequently, consider adjusting the bedtime routine or environment.

Make Adjustments: Be flexible and willing to make changes if needed. This might involve adjusting the bedtime schedule, changing the sleeping environment, or revisiting the bedtime routine.

Seek Professional Advice If Needed: If your child continues to have difficulty adjusting or experiencing sleep issues, consider seeking advice from a sleep specialist. They can provide guidance and support to help your child develop healthy sleep habits.

Celebrating the Milestone
Transitioning from a crib to a bed is a significant milestone for your child. Celebrate this achievement to reinforce positive feelings about the change. Here are some ways to celebrate:

• Praise your child for successfully moving from crib to bed. Positive reinforcement helps build their confidence and encourages them to embrace the new sleeping arrangement.
• Incorporate a fun and special bedtime ritual to celebrate the transition. This could be a new bedtime story, a small reward, or a special activity your child looks forward to.
• Share the experience with family and friends to create a sense of accomplishment. Your child will feel proud of their achievement when others acknowledge and celebrate it.

Good Luck Moving from Crib to Big Kid Bed
Moving from crib to bed is an important transition for both parents and children. By preparing in advance, establishing a consistent bedtime routine, and addressing any challenges with patience and understanding, you can ensure a smooth and successful transition. With these tips, you can make the move from crib to bed a positive and rewarding experience for your child.

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Before I get rolling here, let me say that I am not anti-pacifier. 
I mean, what mother could be? We’ve all been saved from a major baby meltdown by the quick introduction of a dummy into a baby’s mouth at the right moment. Maybe they missed their sleep window by a little bit and were getting a bit cranky; perhaps they got an unexpected bump on the head, or you had to swoop in and take the dog treat out of their mouth. Just before they go into a tantrum, in goes the pacifier, and like magic, all is well. 

Pacifiers have benefits beyond preventing tantrums, as well. The AAP found that pacifiers can reduce the risk of SIDS, possibly due to the fact that baby has a more challenging time burying their face into soft bedding if they have a pacifier sticking out of their mouth. So, given that very substantial and necessary consideration, I’m making the following recommendations based on the supposition that your baby is over a year old. 

That doesn’t mean this is irrelevant if your little one’s younger than that, but just make sure you’ve carefully considered the pros and cons of taking away the pacifier before you make a decision.

So here’s the conundrum from a sleep expert’s point of view: pacifiers can become a problem when it comes to sleep. If a baby’s accustomed to falling asleep with a pacifier in, it almost always wakes up in the night after it’s fallen out. It kicks up a fuss until mom gets up, finds it, and pops it back in its mouth.

So, first off, let’s look at why babies can’t just fall asleep with a pacifier in and then peacefully sleep through the night. Then, we can look at some strategies for getting rid of the pacifier if you and your baby are ready to take the plunge.

Sleep, for babies and adults alike, comes in cycles. Many of us are under the assumption that we fall asleep at the start of the night, go into a deeper sleep as the night goes on, and then gradually come out of it as the morning rolls around.

It’s true that we go from light sleep to deep sleep and then back again, but it happens several times a night, depending on how long you sleep. For adults, a full cycle typically takes between 90 and 120 minutes. For a baby, it’s closer to 50. 

Suppose your baby won’t sleep at bedtime without a pacifier in their mouth. In that case, there’s a distinct possibility that they rely on that pacifier to sleep. When they get to the end of a sleep cycle, they get into that very light stage of sleep and might actually wake up, at which point they’re still tired, but they might have trouble getting back to sleep because “Hey! Where’s the pacifier? I can’t get to sleep without my pacifier!” 

Suppose they can’t find it or haven’t figured out how to put it in on their own yet. In that case, they’re going to get upset because they can’t get back to sleep, and they’re going to start crying for someone to come and rectify the situation. 

And that, right there, is the definition of what we in the sleep consulting field call a “sleep prop.” Sometimes, it’s feeding, sometimes it’s rocking, and sometimes it’s some crazy combination of a bunch of things, but essentially, it’s something that babies depend on to get to sleep that they can’t provide on their own when they wake up in the night.

More than anything, that’s the secret to sleeping through the night. Getting rid of sleep props is, hands down, the most critical component to getting your little one sleeping peacefully from the time you put them to bed until they wake up, happy and refreshed, in the morning.

Are bedtime battles turning your move to a new home into a sleepless saga? Fear not, weary parents! In this delightful guide, we're diving headfirst into the enchanting world of adapting children's familiar sleep routines to your brand-new abode. Moving house with little ones can be difficult, but fret not – we've got your back! We'll show you tips for adapting children's familiar sleep routines to your new home. Say goodbye to restless nights and hello to the land of peaceful Zzzs – let's begin this enchanting adventure together! 

Preparing for the Move To Your New Home

Firstly, let's talk about the art of communication. Share the excitement and explain why this new chapter in your family's story is a thrilling one. Remember, they're part of the team, and their input matters! Now, when it comes to packing, involve your mini sidekicks in the process. Therefore, let them choose their favorite toys or items to carry with them on this fantastic voyage. Their sense of ownership will also help them feel more connected to the relocation and less like passengers on a spaceship.

Furthermore, let's chat about schedules. Plan ahead and try to keep daily routines intact as much as possible. Hiring movers is the way to go when you're moving to Canada. If you have assistance with your relocation, you can spend more time guiding your children through the process. Familiarity is your secret weapon in taming the moving monster. A sense of predictability can soothe those pre-move jitters and provide stability amid the whirlwind of change.

Advice for Moving with Kids to Your New Home

Timing is everything; finding that sweet spot in your family's schedule can make all the difference. So, opt for a period when school or other routines are less demanding, minimizing disruptions and ensuring your little adventurers are ready for the journey. Now, let's talk about selecting child-friendly moving services. Look for companies with family moves experience, kid-friendly amenities, and maybe even some snacks to fuel their enthusiasm. Overall, the right-moving team can turn your move into a remarkable voyage of discovery.

Lastly, don't forget the essentials bag – your golden ticket for the first night in the new home. Pack it with all the treasures your children hold dear: their favorite stuffed animals, beloved bedtime stories, and maybe even a surprise treat. This bag is like Mary Poppins' carpet bag, holding everything they need for a cozy, reassuring night's sleep in their new surroundings. So, as you navigate this kid-centric moving adventure, remember that timing, child-friendly movers, and a well-packed essentials bag are your secret weapons.

Arrange Your Children’s Room and Create a Comfy Sleep Environment

Unpacking and arranging the children's rooms: make this task a priority, transforming their new space into a haven of comfort and familiarity. Unearth and place their treasures in their special spots, fostering a sense of belonging from day one. Now, speaking of treasures, let's maintain that precious familiarity with bedding and sleep essentials. So, keep their beloved blankies, cozy PJs, and trusty stuffed companions close at hand. 

The scent of home is often wrapped in these comforting items. Let's not forget to establish a safe and comfortable sleep environment. Make sure their cribs or beds are set up with utmost care. Check for any potential hazards and baby-proof the room as needed. Soft nightlights can banish those bedtime monsters, and blackout curtains can also help create a peaceful, uninterrupted slumber.

Rebuild Their Sleep Routines

Now, let's bring back those beloved bedtime rituals and routines. Storytime, lullabies, and toothbrushing adventures – these cherished traditions weave a sense of comfort and predictability into your children's evenings. Reintroduce them with enthusiasm, turning bedtime into an enchanting journey once again. But remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither are perfect sleep routines. Gradual adaptation to the new sleep environment is key. Start by introducing familiar elements, like their favorite pillow or nightlight. Over time, incorporate new elements specific to your new home, making the transition seamless and exciting.

Manage Relocation Challenges

Acknowledge their worries, encourage exploration, and be their compass while adapting children's familiar sleep routines to your new home. Show them that, like brave explorers, they can conquer any fear that comes their way. Next, dealing with disruptions and waking up at night is challenging. As you sail through this transition, expect a few waves of restlessness. Stay the course, providing comfort and reassurance when those nighttime squalls hit. A little extra cuddle or a soothing lullaby can work wonders to settle those stormy seas.

Above all, be the lighthouse, providing a beacon of emotional support during the adjustment period. Offer a safe harbor for their feelings, whether excitement, sadness, or uncertainty. Let them know you're here to listen, understand, and embrace their emotions as they journey through this new chapter. 

Maintain Consistency in Their Bedtime Routine

A well-rested captain makes for a smoother voyage, so lead by example. Show your little ones the importance of a bedtime routine by sticking to one yourself. Now, let's talk about monitoring and adjusting sleep routines as needed. Just as a skilled sailor adjusts the sails to changing winds, be vigilant and flexible. Keep an eye on how your children adapt and make tweaks as necessary. Whether it's bedtime or naptime, your ability to adapt will ensure smooth sailing through the night. 

But here's the cherry on top: celebrating small victories and milestones in the new home. Every night of peaceful slumber, every morning, they wake up with a smile – these are the moments to cheer and cherish. Acknowledge and applaud these little triumphs; they'll build a sense of accomplishment and confidence for your little adventurers.

Final Thoughts On Ways for Adapting Children's Familiar Sleep Routines to Your New Home

​In the grand adventure of adapting children's familiar sleep routines to your new home, patience and understanding are your trusty companions. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can transform the challenges of relocation into opportunities for growth and bonding. Remember, your support, consistency, and love will guide your little ones through the exciting journey of bedtime in their new home. Sweet dreams await in your new home!

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