Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting Review: The Program That Changed My life (and career)
People often assume I became a Sleep Consultant because I was a sleep-deprived parent.
Well, I was. I had one child who woke at 3 am for the day and another who mastered the 30-minute nap like it was his job. I hired many consultants during that time—some were great, and some were not. But, despite the sleep struggles, that’s not the reason I decided to become a sleep consultant.
Over the course of my second maternity leave during the pandemic, I realized I needed something more—purpose. I wanted to stay engaged, have my kids cared for, and eventually return to work. But the reality of going back to a demanding job in digital advertising wasn’t the best fit for my family life.
Then, I saw a job listing for a sleep consultant position and decided to apply. The second time I applied, I landed the position. On the exact same day that Karen, now my fellow consultant, did as well. Fate has a funny way of working out, doesn't it?
From day one, I LOVED the families and the work I was doing. We were trained by the company we were hired by, and quickly became passionate about the field. It was more than just teaching sleep training techniques; it was about creating a deeper understanding of children’s sleep and how it connects to their overall well-being. The more I learned, the more I wanted to level up my education. That’s when both Karen and I decided to take the plunge and enroll in the Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting program. And let me tell you, we never looked back. Here’s my Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting review, plus some insights for those interested in breaking into the field (and maybe joining the team one day!).
Why I Chose the Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting
What really drew me to the Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting program was the founder, Violet, who is both a Registered Nurse and a certified Sleep Consultant. Beyond her credentials, I genuinely liked and trusted her. I knew that if I was going to invest my time, energy, and money into a program, it had to be with someone whose approach aligned with my values and goals. Violet’s comprehensive understanding of pediatric sleep and parenting made her an ideal mentor for me.
The program is thorough, well-structured, and focuses on more than just the mechanics of sleep training. Sure, we learned proven sleep training methods and how to implement them effectively, but the course also offered a deeper dive into the science behind sleep. The integration of guest speakers, each offering their own expertise in areas like pediatric sleep science, behavior, and parenting, really set the program apart from others.
What I loved most was the holistic approach. It wasn’t just about getting children to sleep—it was about understanding why children sleep the way they do, how their development affects their sleep patterns, and how parents can support healthy sleep habits in a sustainable, gentle way. This well-rounded education gave me the confidence I needed to really help families.
Beyond Sleep Training: A Business-Focused Approach
The Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting program also made sure to include a section on business development, which was invaluable for me as I transitioned into this new career. Sleep consulting isn’t just about helping families—it’s also about building a successful business. The course taught us how to market ourselves, build client relationships, and create a sustainable practice. This was crucial for me, as I was starting from scratch.
The Facebook Community: A Game Changer
One of the standout features of the Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting program is the incredible Facebook community for graduates. This group is a space where consultants share their experiences, ask questions, and discuss case studies. It’s a supportive, safe place where everyone—from seasoned consultants to those just starting out—can share ideas and get feedback.
I can’t tell you how helpful it was to have a group of like-minded individuals to turn to for advice or guidance. Each consultant brings their own unique perspective, so even though we were all following the same program, the diversity of experiences made every conversation valuable. It was my favorite part of the entire program.
Support After the Program: 5 Stars
A program is only as good as the support you get once you’ve completed it, and here, the Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting truly excels. Violet’s commitment to supporting her graduates goes above and beyond. Even after completing the course, I felt like I had someone to turn to for advice, whether it was about a tricky client situation or business advice. The ongoing mentorship and encouragement made all the difference, especially in those early months when I was still finding my feet in this new role.
That level of support is rare, and it’s one of the reasons I feel confident recommending this program to anyone interested in becoming a pediatric sleep consultant. If you’re looking for a program that’s not only educational but also provides ongoing mentorship and a supportive community, then Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting is a top choice.
Key Pointers for Aspiring Sleep Consultants
If you’re thinking about breaking into the field of sleep consulting, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Choose the right program: Not all sleep consultant programs are created equal. Make sure the program you choose offers a well-rounded education that includes both the science of sleep and practical methods you can apply with families.
Expect a steep learning curve: It’s not just about learning the techniques; it’s about understanding the why behind them. Be prepared to put in the time to absorb the material and practice your skills.
Build your support network: As a sleep consultant, you’re often working solo, so having a support system (like the Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting Facebook community) is crucial for your success. Surround yourself with other consultants who can offer advice, share resources, and provide encouragement. If you want to work one-on-one with an experienced consultant and business owner, check out our mentorship program.
You’re not just a sleep trainer: Anyone can learn sleep training methods. You on the other hand, as a well trained consultant, will be guiding families through complex emotions and behaviors. It’s important to approach your work with empathy, compassion, and a focus on long-term solutions.
Business is key: If you plan to turn sleep consulting into a career, be prepared to learn how to run a business. It’s not enough to just know the techniques; you need to know how to market yourself, build a client base, and provide excellent customer service.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking to become a sleep consultant, the Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting is, in my opinion, the best program out there. From the science to the methodology to the business support, it’s a comprehensive course that truly prepares you for success in the field. The ongoing mentorship and the community of graduates make it a program that offers continued value long after you've completed the coursework.
So, if you’re passionate about helping families and want to make a real impact on children’s sleep and overall well-being, I highly recommend the IPSP’s program. It changed my career and gave me the tools I needed to create a successful sleep consulting business—and I know it can do the same for you.
If you have any questions about the program, you are always welcome to email me: hello@havebabymustsleep.com
