I had the pleasure of sitting down with Veronica Ordonez, a psychologist and certified sleep coach, for an insightful conversation on the pivotal topic of sleep within our parenting journeys. I cannot express enough how much this discussion resonated with me and how it has the potential to transform the way we perceive both our children’s and our own sleep routines.
Veronica’s story is as inspiring as it is relatable. Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, she shares her transition to the U.S seven years ago when her family uprooted their life for her husband’s job. Her background as a psychologist combined with her journey to become a sleep coach is a narrative many of us can connect with – driven by personal challenges and the desire to support others in similar situations. For her, the sleepless nights with her first child ignited a passion to help other mothers find solace and rest, eventually leading to her creating a business that supports that journey.
Let’s Talk Babies and Sleep
One of the key points Veronica emphasized during our chat was the importance of allowing nature to take its course with newborns, while simultaneously laying down an early foundation for healthy sleep patterns. She reassured me, and I’m sure will reassure many new parents, that the initial weeks with a newborn are about adapting to new family dynamics and recovering ourselves.
Veronica provided easy, actionable steps for gently establishing a sleep foundation with babies, like creating a sleep-friendly environment and setting consistent sleep and wake times as babies grow. These tips were golden nuggets of wisdom for anyone preparing for or currently welcoming a newborn into their home.
Navigating Toddler Sleep Challenges
As our conversation shifted to toddlers, Veronica’s insights became even more crucial. She explained how toddlers are skillful boundary-pushers and shared techniques for helping them with nighttime fears like nightmares or anxiety. Importantly, she highlighted the necessity of being consistent with any established sleep boundaries and the importance of creating a secure attachment through our presence and support.
Gentle Sleep Training Approaches
Veronica also shed light on the differences between traditional sleep training methods and her preferred gentle approach, emphasizing parental involvement and support instead of crying it out. For any parent struggling with their beliefs about sleep methods, Veronica provided comforting, evidence-backed guidance showing that crying, within a supportive and loving environment, can be a part of learning.
Why Moms Need Rest Too
This conversation wouldn’t be complete without addressing the importance of sleep for us, the moms. Veronica passionately argues that our well-being is intrinsically linked to the well-being of our children. She emphasized the value of putting ourselves first sometimes to ensure we can give our best to our families. It’s an empowering reminder that taking care of ourselves is not selfish but necessary.
A Message to Mamis Everywhere
Veronica’s ultimate aim is to spread the message that motherhood doesn’t mean putting ourselves last. We can and should prioritize our sleep and well-being, as doing so sets an example for our little ones and ensures we can be present and joyful in our parenting roles.
I left our conversation with a renewed perspective on sleep and a toolkit of strategies to try. I can’t wait for you to dive into the full episode, where Veronica’s friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge will surely leave you feeling empowered and motivated to make positive changes in your family’s sleep habits.
For anyone looking to connect with Veronica or to explore her workshops and consultations, especially for those of you in the Latino community seeking culturally sensitive and bilingual support, I encourage you to check out her offerings. Sleep doesn’t have to be a struggle, and Veronica is here to guide you every step of the way.
Show Notes
In this episode, we welcome psychologist and certified gentle sleep coach Verónica Ordóñez, founder of LullaBy Veronica. From establishing healthy sleep foundations for newborns to managing toddler bedtime boundaries, Veronica shares her expertise on helping families get better rest while respecting cultural dynamics. She opens up about her own journey navigating her daughter’s sleep challenges and how that led her to become a sleep coach and provides practical tips for parents struggling with sleep training.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear:
- How to build healthy sleep foundations from birth to toddlerhood
- Gentle sleep training methods vs. cry-it-out
- The common sleep challenges and myths
- Cultural considerations in sleep training
- The importance of prioritizing maternal rest
- Setting consistent sleep boundaries
- Balancing family traditions with healthy sleep habits
Resources Mentioned:
- Upcoming Workshop: Toddler Sleep Success: No More Bedtime Struggles
- Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
- Cost: $27
Connect with Veronica!
- Website: lullabyveronica.com
- Instagram: @lullabyveronica
- Book a consultation with Veronica
About Our Guest
Verónica Ordóñez
Verónica Ordóñez is a psychologist and certified gentle sleep coach who has dedicated her career to helping families establish healthy sleep habits. Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, she brings a unique cultural perspective to her work. As the founder of LullaBy Veronica, she has spent the last five years transforming families’ lives through personalized sleep coaching, drawing from both her professional expertise and personal experience as a mother of two.
Veronica specializes in supporting parents by offering a range of services including one-on-one consultations, workshops, and pop-up sessions in the Nashville area. Her gentle sleep coaching approach emphasizes creating sustainable sleep solutions that respect both parent and child, while considering each family’s unique dynamics and cultural background. Veronica’s commitment to helping mothers prioritize their own rest alongside their children’s sleep needs has made her a trusted resource in the parenting community, where she continues to advocate for well-rested, happier families.
