Blog

If you’ve ever heard your baby cry, whimper, or fuss in their sleep—but noticed they don’t fully wake up—you’re not alone. As a licensed RN, I want to reassure you:👉🏾 This is very common in newborns and infants and is usually a normal part of development. Let’s break down why this happens, when to respond, and how to support your baby (and […]

If you’ve ever Googled “Is sleep training safe?” at 2:00 a.m. while holding a tired baby, you are not alone. As a Registered Nurse (RN, BSN) and Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, I talk to parents every week who feel torn. They want more sleep for their baby — and themselves — but they also worry: • Will sleep training […]

Every parent has been there:You’re trying to soothe your baby to sleep… but nothing seems to work.Are they overtired or undertired? It’s one of the most commonly misunderstood sleep challenges — and understanding the difference can make bedtime calmer, faster, and more restful for everyone. 💤 As a registered nurse (RN, BSN) and certified infant sleep consultant, I’ve helped […]

Simple steps, clear tips, and peace of mind for tired parents If your baby has a fever or a diaper rash, it’s natural to feel worried — especially when sleep is already hard to come by. As a parent, knowing how to treat a fever and soothe diaper rashcan make all the difference in your little one’s comfort and […]

If you’ve noticed your baby pulling their hair (or your hair 😅), you’re not alone. Hair pulling in babies and toddlers is actually very common, and in most cases, it’s a normal part of development—not something to panic about. In this blog, we’ll explore why babies pull their hair, when it’s normal, when to pay attention, and what parents can […]

Toddlerhood is a season full of big feelings, rapid growth, boundary testing, and emotional discovery. As toddlers begin to assert independence, discipline becomes less about punishment and more about teaching, guiding, and nurturing emotional development. According to Lisa Rietzke, RN, BSN and founder of Sleepytime by Lisa, toddlers thrive when they feel safe, connected, and understood. Effective discipline strengthens that […]

When your baby starts crawling, pulling up, and exploring their world, your home suddenly becomes an adventure zone. While this curiosity is a beautiful part of development, it can also bring safety concerns for new parents. That’s why baby proofing your home is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your infant, reduce stress, […]

Parenting a newborn or toddler is full of love, discovery, and joy—but let’s be real, it also comes with challenges. Two of the biggest hurdles most parents face are temper tantrums and separation anxiety. These behaviors are a normal part of development, but knowing how to handle them can make the difference between daily stress and peaceful […]

When you’re preparing for life with a newborn—or juggling the toddler stage—it’s easy to get lost in the overwhelming lists of baby products. Sure, you’ve heard about the crib, car seat, and stroller, but what about those lesser-known baby and toddler essentials that can make everyday life smoother for both you and your little one? […]

Support, Sleep, and Sensory Play with Lisa Rietzke, RN & Pediatric Sleep Coach Watching your baby roll over, sit up, babble, or crawl for the first time is pure magic. ✨ But behind every adorable “first” is a foundation of developmental support, healthy sleep habits, and intentional playtime. As a parent, you play a powerful role in helping your baby reach […]

Gentle Guidance from Lisa Rietzke, RN & Baby Sleep Specialist Introducing solids is a major milestone in your baby’s development—and it often comes with questions, concerns, and conflicting advice. From baby-led weaning to purees, every parent wants to make sure they’re giving their baby the best first foods to support healthy growth, happy tummies, and peaceful sleep. 😴 At Sleepytime by Lisa, […]

As parents, we know that a well-fed toddler is a happy toddler—but did you know that what and when your little one eats can actually impact their sleep? 😮 That’s right! Nutritious snacks not only keep your toddler energized, but certain foods may also support better bedtime routines. In this blog, we’ll dive into the best healthy snacks for toddlers 🍎, how […]

As a parent, you want the best for your little one—from strong bodies to brilliant minds. But did you know that one of the most powerful tools for toddler brain development isn’t a fancy toy or screen-free app—it’s quality sleep? 😴 In this blog, we’ll explore simple, science-backed ways to encourage your toddler’s cognitive growth—and how sleep training with Sleepytime Sleep […]

🍼 First Things First: Why the First Year Is So Important Introducing solids is exciting—but knowing what not to feed your baby under 1 year old is just as crucial as knowing what to feed them. Your baby’s digestive and immune systems are still developing, and some foods can be dangerous, allergenic, or hard to swallow. 🚫 Top 10 Foods to […]

What Is Diaper Rash? Diaper rash is a common skin condition that affects babies and toddlers. It appears as red, inflamed skin in the diaper area and is often caused by prolonged exposure to wet diapers, chafing, or yeast infections. If you’ve noticed your baby fussing during diaper changes or redness on their bottom, you’re […]

When Do Babies Start Teething? Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months, though some may get their first tooth as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. Every baby is different, but here’s a general baby teething timeline: Baby Teething Timeline 🗓️ ✔ 4-7 months: Bottom front teeth (central incisors) appear✔ 8-12 months: Top front teeth (central incisors) emerge✔ 9-16 months: Top […]

Baby-led weaning (BLW) skips spoon-feeding in favor of letting babies feed themselves with soft, whole foods. Pros of Baby-Led Weaning ✅ ✔ Encourages self-feeding & independence✔ Promotes hand-eye coordination & chewing skills✔ Exposes baby to different textures early✔ Baby eats with the family – no separate meals Cons of Baby-Led Weaning ❌ ⚠ Messy! Expect food everywhere 🍽️⚠ Choking concerns (safe food prep is crucial!)⚠ Can be slower – baby […]

Keeping your baby active is essential for their physical and cognitive development. Incorporating gentle exercises into your daily routine can help strengthen their muscles, improve motor skills, and boost their overall health. In this blog, we’ll explore the best baby exercises in 2025 to promote growth and bonding with your little one. Why Baby Exercises […]

Becoming a new parent is an incredible journey filled with love, joy, and challenges. As you navigate sleepless nights and endless diaper changes, it’s easy to lose sight of your own well-being. However, finding self-care time is essential not just for your mental health but also for being the best parent you can be. In […]

As a new parent, your baby’s health is always top of mind. So, when your little one starts showing signs of their first cold, it can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Colds are common in babies, especially during the first year, as their immune systems are still developing. This guide will help you recognize […]

Welcoming a baby into your life is an incredible journey filled with love, challenges, and countless firsts. To help new parents navigate the milestones and changes, we’ve created this month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year. Read on to understand what to expect, and how you can best support your little one during this precious […]

Simple steps, clear tips, and peace of mind for tired parents If your baby has a fever or a diaper rash, it’s natural to feel worried — especially when sleep is already hard to come by. As a parent, knowing how to treat a fever and soothe diaper rashcan make all the difference in your little one’s comfort and […]

The holidays are a busy time for travel, and if you’re planning a road trip with a baby, a little preparation can make all the difference. Here’s a list of essential tips for safe and comfortable car travel with a baby during the 2024 holiday season. From packing must-haves to planning pit stops, here’s how […]

Flying with a baby can feel challenging, especially when it comes to keeping them entertained in a small space for an extended time. However, with some fun and simple airplane activities, you can make the journey easier for both you and your baby. Here’s a list of activities to keep your baby engaged and happy […]

Thanksgiving is a holiday that families love to spend together, and even the youngest members can join in! While newborns may be too young for a traditional Thanksgiving feast, there are plenty of engaging, safe, and sensory activities for them. Here’s a list of Thanksgiving-themed activities designed to help newborns feel included while also fostering […]

As every parent knows, getting a baby to sleep can sometimes feel like a Herculean task. Establishing a bedtime routine that helps your baby wind down is crucial for ensuring they get the rest they need—and so do you. Here are some effective strategies to create a calming pre-sleep ritual for your little one. 1. […]

The baby teething process is a significant milestone in your child’s development. While it can be a challenging time for both parents and babies, understanding the stages of teething, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing how to provide relief can make the journey smoother. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know […]

1. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine Creating a predictable bedtime routine helps signal to your newborn that it’s time to sleep. Start with a warm bath, followed by gentle rocking, a lullaby, or a bedtime story. Consistency is key to helping your baby recognize sleep cues. 2. Create a Sleep-Inducing Environment Make your baby’s sleeping […]

Diaper rash is a common challenge for parents, causing discomfort for babies and stress for caregivers. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to prevent diaper rash and keep your baby’s skin healthy and irritation-free. In this blog, we’ll explore seven proven methods to prevent diaper rash, ensuring your baby stays comfortable and happy. 1. Keep […]

As a parent, ensuring your baby gets a good night’s sleep is crucial for their growth and your peace of mind. However, many factors can disrupt a baby’s sleep, leading to restless nights and cranky mornings. Understanding these disruptions is the first step towards creating a sleep-friendly environment for your little one. Here are five […]

As a newborn sleep specialist, I often encounter parents who are struggling to get their little ones to sleep through the night. While it is a common problem, it can be incredibly challenging for parents who are already sleep-deprived and overwhelmed. That’s where a sleep training specialist can be a game-changer. Here are the top […]

Hello tired parents! I’m happy to announce two new services. Zoom Consults and overnight text/phone support. Zoom Consultations are a virtual version of my in-person, in-home consultations. Your family needs to be healthy to sleep well, and during these uncertain times, this allows me access to you, your home, and your family. We will discuss […]

Get Started.  Get Sleep! Since more parents are at home during this time, this is a perfect opportunity to invest your time, and create some normalcy, by establishing a sleep routine for your child.  This will improve both your child’s sleep, and the sleep of the rest of your family. With daycares and schools closed […]

1. Sleep training means putting your baby in a crib and leaving them until morning. Fact: There are many more gentle methods, from checking on your child frequently, to camping out in their room. 2. Sleep training will harm my child. Fact: There’s no data to show that sleep training or not sleep training will […]

Sleep training your child, whether an infant or a preschooler, has many benefits. The benefits can be most easily recognized by looking at the effects of lack of sleep. Decreased sleep can be in the form of not falling asleep easily at bedtime or nap, waking up frequently throughout the night, early morning waking, and […]