Many parents use bedtime mantras to help their child feel calm and secure at night. In theory, it's a beautiful idea—predictable, soothing language meant to support rest. But what if the words we're using are actually doing the opposite?

In this episode, Allison explores a bedtime phrase that's become incredibly common—"you are safe"—and explains why, for some children, especially sensitive or anxious ones, this well-intentioned mantra can unintentionally increase bedtime worry.

Allison breaks down how a child's brain processes language at bedtime, why timing and repetition matter, and how certain phrases can shift the brain into "monitoring mode" instead of rest mode. She also shares a personal story that illustrates when reassurance is necessary—and when it's better to let the brain settle without added prompts.

You'll learn:

• Why some bedtime mantras can increase anxiety instead of reducing it

• How a child's brain interprets language right before sleep

• When reassurance about safety is helpful—and when it isn't

• Simple, comforting alternatives to common bedtime phrases

• How small language shifts can make a big difference at bedtime

If bedtime has started to feel harder, or your child seems more anxious at night despite a consistent routine, this episode offers a gentle, practical reframe that may help sleep feel easier again.

Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube

Looking for expert guidance on your child's sleep? Allison offers two free age-specific guides to help you discover how much sleep kids need to thrive—at any age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old

From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use.

Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place.

Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics.

Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime?

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• On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review."

• On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review.

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Every child is born with a unique sleep puzzle—and understanding that concept can completely change how you approach sleep challenges.

In this episode, Allison breaks down why some children seem to sleep effortlessly while others struggle no matter how closely parents follow the "rules." If you've read the books, followed the schedules, tried multiple methods, and still feel stuck, this episode is for you.

Allison explains the idea of natural sleep talent and why sensitive sleepers often need a much more precise approach. Through personal stories from her own family—and a powerful real-life coaching example—she shows how even one missing puzzle piece can keep sleep from clicking… and how finding it can change everything almost overnight.

This conversation is a reminder that sleep struggles are not a reflection of parenting failure. Some children simply have bigger, more delicate sleep puzzles—and with the right pieces in place, restful nights are absolutely possible.

In this episode, we cover:

• What the "sleep puzzle" really means

• Why following advice perfectly still doesn't work for some kids

• Natural sleep talent vs. sensitive sleepers

• Why regressions, travel, and routine changes hit some children harder

• How one small shift can lead to major sleep breakthroughs

• Why you're not doing anything wrong—and never were

If this episode resonates, consider sharing it with another parent who may need to hear this message. You're not alone, and your child isn't broken—just beautifully unique.

Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube

Give your child the gift of better sleep. Allison's free, age-specific guides show you exactly how many hours of rest kids need to grow, learn, and thrive—no matter their age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old

From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use.

Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place.

Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics.

Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime?

Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents.

• On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review."

• On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review.

Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date!

Connect with Allison:
Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube