EPISODE · Aug 22, 2025 · 53 MIN
Baby Sleep Regression and Mom Guilt: Rethinking “Sleeping Through the Night”
from Mama You Belong · host Kirsten Desmarais, DPT and Molly Hilgenberg, LICSW
Why do so many moms feel like failures when their baby won’t sleep “the right way”? In this honest and vulnerable conversation, we dive into the guilt, shame, and societal pressure surrounding baby sleep regression and the unrealistic standards parents face.When one of us went through a sudden 15-month toddler sleep regression, she tried every sleep training tip recommended by experts and well-meaning friends. Nothing worked—until car rides became the only solution. But even then, the mom guilt crept in: “Am I a bad mother because I can’t get my baby to sleep without this crutch?”👉 If you’ve ever asked yourself the same thing, this episode is for you.What We Talk About in This Episode:Why baby sleep isn’t a skill to be trained but a biological functionThe emotional toll of sleep regressions on momsReframing “nighttime parenting” as “nighttime nurturing”How questions like “Is your baby sleeping through the night?” fuel shameBetter ways to support moms during the hardest sleep seasonsInstead of viewing night wakings as failures, we can see them as natural ways our children communicate their needs. Your child isn’t manipulating you; they’re reaching out for comfort—and responding is real parenting work.If you’re a mom struggling with baby sleep, toddler sleep regressions, or just the overwhelming pressure to “get it right,” this episode will remind you: your worth as a parent has nothing to do with how independently your baby sleeps.We’d love to hear your story—email us at [email protected] or share this episode with another tired mama who needs encouragement.Check out the book Molly recommended from our FAV local bookstore! Nurture Revolution by Greer Kirshenbaum, PhDAndAn awesome influence on socials, Brittany Chambers @goodnightmoonchildspeaking of Brittany..... you need to check out her shop. Her shirts are amazing.Support the showKirsten's Physical Therapy websiteThe Nuture CollectiveMama You Belong InstagramKirsten's Instagram Molly's InstagramMolly’s music Sister Veery on bandcampMolly’s music website
What this episode covers
Why do so many moms feel like failures when their baby won’t sleep “the right way”? In this honest and vulnerable conversation, we dive into the guilt, shame, and societal pressure surrounding baby sleep regression and the unrealistic standards parents face. When one of us went through a sudden 15-month toddler sleep regression, she tried every sleep training tip recommended by experts and well-meaning friends. Nothing worked—until car rides became the only solution. But even then, the mom gu...
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Baby Sleep Regression and Mom Guilt: Rethinking “Sleeping Through the Night”
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