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OF SOME HAPPY CLIENTS!
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Before I found Helen, we all were in a constant state of exhaustion and feeling overwhelmed with the lack of sleep. I attempted to find resources and figure something that would work for my son Cohen but the information on the internet and in books was generic and not tailored to age or specific problems. It just made me more confused!!! I wanted to do something that would work and didn't want to set Cohen or myself up for failure...
With Helen she was able to customize the plan to Cohen and his individual needs. She was also there as personal support to answer questions and reassure!
As a mother and a health care professional I knew the importance of Cohen being well rested for his development (cognitive and physical) but I was unsure how to make this happen.
When we started the plan it only took Cohen 1-2 days and we felt like we had a new child. He was smiling and playing more and fussing less!!! Even now when I put him to bed I am amazed how he just watches me turn the light out then rolls over and goes to sleep. We are delighted!! We are now enjoying our son and feeling better ourselves. Thanks Helen...
Mandy and Chad, Calgary AB, parents to Cohen (aged 3.5 months at time of training)
Hi Helen,
Thank you for the check in. Everything is going wonderful. Ethan is sleeping through the night, going to bed with NO problems and is asleep with in 5 minutes. He is so proud of himself! We went camping this past weekend and for the first time there was NO crying when he climbed into his top bunk, and NO crying when it was bed time. We followed all the same routines and times and friends that were camping with us were amazed. I honestly do not know how to express our thanks....you have saved our family! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Leah and Ryan, Mission BC, parents to Ethan (aged 6 years at time of training)
Our baby boy is a ton of fun, because now he is sleeping through the night and getting the rest he needs! We were so fatigued after 12 months of little, if any sleep. Among other methods, we breastfed him to sleep for every nap, nighttime sleep and every night awakening too. We had done a lot of reading, took baby sleep seminars, tried the horrible "cry it out" method, had music playing & much more. We finally took the leap, and as an early Christmas present to ourselves, we hired Helen, after an excellent recommendation from two of our friends.
In just 2 nights our boy Leo went from a baby standing holding onto the crib rails screaming, not sleeping more than 2-3 hours at a time to a baby that learned how to get himself down from the crib rails, settle himself and sleep for 10 hours straight. On the third night of training, he slept 11 hours and achieved 2 daytime naps. We were aghast and we think this woman is a Genius!! She gave us a clear, detailed plan that was specific to our needs and Leo responded instantly!
We not only had a baby sleeping through the night, but we could now track his nutrition and had a platform from which to start weaning him. It was so life changing that we are still in awe at details that make Helen so good at what she does. Thank you!
Brenda and Sig, Calgary, Alberta, parents to Leo (aged 12 months at time of training)
"Before we started sleep training Aren, his naps were all over the place and he was waking up 2-3 times at night. My husband, who works long hours and has to leave very early in the morning, was unable to help me at night which left me totally sleep deprived and grumpy all day as I had no breaks. As for Aren, because he wasn't getting the proper rest he needed, he was often clingy and fussy. When we spoke to Helen and read her detailed plan, we were eager and excited to get started, and it gave us the confidence to follow through with every step and remain consistent. We started seeing amazing results in just days! Aren slept through the night the first night and immediately his naps all fell into place! Helen's scheduling tips and guides totally worked for us -- we are now a very rested family, but Aren especially has become a much more happy, alert, and easy-going baby! It was the best gift we could ever give him. Thank you so very much Helen!!!
Alex & Sossy, Markham ON, parents to Aren (aged 4 mths at time of training)
Hi Helen,
Thank you so much for your sleep plan, Isabella is doing great. Last night was the third night and she was asleep in 10 minutes. When she wakes up in the night she is able to put herself back to sleep within a couple of minutes. The first night she cried for 10 minutes and that was the worst of it. She has caught on so fast. Thank you so much for giving us the gift of sleep, I feel I am capable of being a much better mother and wife because of you.
Janeen and Todd, Langley BC, parents to Isabella (aged 11 months approx at time of training)
We contacted Helen when Annabelle was 6.5 months old. Up until the age of 4 months, she co-slept with us. Well, mostly me, as my husband had moved into the spare bedroom. After that, she would sleep in her room for the first part of the night but refused to sleep in it for the other part. Since birth, Annabelle has always woken up every 3 hours. When we decided to contact Helen, we were desperate and very sleep deprived, Annabelle was waking every 2 hours to only take in about 1-2 oz of formula. We then realized she wasn't hungry but was using the bottle as a way to fall back asleep.
Helen saved our family. Helen designed a specific plan for Annabelle. After following it carefully, I noticed a great improvement by Night 2 and Annabelle was sleeping through the night by Night 4 and has been since. We never thought it was possible for Annabelle to do so. Annabelle is taking great naps in her crib, which had always been another struggle. Helen's follow-up has also been great, she was always there to answer any questions or concerns. She is absolutely amazing. My husband and I are finally sleeping in the same bed again!!
I would recommend Helen, in a second to anyone who has sleep or nap issues! Thank you very much again, Helen!!!
Stephanie and Cedric, Orleans, ON, parents to Annabelle (aged 6.5 months at time of training)
Before we contacted Helen, Maeve would not fall asleep without being bounced (while held on a giant yoga ball) for her daytime naps and nursed to sleep at night. We had the most difficulty getting her to fall asleep (and stay asleep) for her daytime naps. It often took over 45 minutes of bouncing to get her to fall asleep, with her fussing and crying the whole time. Then, the instant we’d lay her down, she’d wake up and fuss and we’d have to pick her up and start all over again. This process was sometimes repeated 4-5 times a day!! After all that, she’d only stay sleeping for about 30 minutes at each naptime (unless we gave in and held her!). We were exhausted. At night, we had to feed her to sleep in our bed and sneakily move her into the crib while she was asleep. She would then awake every 2 hours in the night and needed to be nursed to fall back asleep.
After several discussions with Helen, we were given a very comprehensive and tailor-made sleep training program for Maeve. She also included a very helpful feeding and sleep schedule and several useful recommendations. We literally saw results the first night –- it was amazing how quickly she seemed to “catch on.”
After training, Maeve puts herself to sleep within minutes in the crib (with absolutely no help from us!) and can easily stay sleeping for 1.5 hours at a time. At night, she is sleeping for at least 11 hours and quickly puts herself back to sleep if necessary. From the first day we contacted Helen she has been encouraging, supportive and responded to our questions and concerns almost immediately.
We are so pleased with Maeve’s success. It has completely changed our lives and we have a much happier baby!! (Not to mention, mom and dad are now sleeping in the same bed together after 5.5 months!) Thank you so much Helen we are recommending you to all of our friends with babies.
Jaime and Mike, Winnipeg, MB, parents of Maeve 5.5 mos. at time of training
REFLUX BABY
Jayson had never been a good sleeper. We often sat with him in our arms until he fell asleep. After half an hour, he would wake screaming and take up to 2 hours to fall back asleep. Naps were even more of a disaster!
At 3-months of age, we were told by our paediatrician that Jayson had Silent Reflux Disease and needed to be on medications to control the acid in his stomach. We were also told that his sleep issues were related to his Reflux and once he was on medications, his sleep would improve. I was relieved to know we now had insight into Jayson’s sleep troubles. Well, after 3 months on medications and absolutely no improvement with Jayson’s sleep, we could not go on. My husband, Jayson and I were all severely sleep deprived and Jayson’s sleep issues were starting to affect our family.
I first heard of Helen through the Mother’s Group I belong to. I was a bit sceptical in contacting her after being told by our Paediatrician that Jayson’s sleep issues were due to his “Reflux”.
We still knew we needed help and I contacted Helen out of desperation. She listened to our issues and provided us with the reassurance and guidance we needed. I can honestly say, after one night of implementing Helen’s sleep training plan ourselves, Jayson, now 7 months old, has made a miraculous transition from waking 7 or 8 times a night to sleeping for 11 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night with 2 naps per day, each 1 and a half hours. Now that he is getting the sleep he truly needs, he is medication free, making great gains in his development and an absolute pleasure to be around.
As parents, we are able to enjoy both our children more and have returned to being an active family unit. Without a doubt, I would recommend Helen’s services in a heartbeat. She is a life saver!!
Terri and Paul, Richmond BC, parents to Jayson (aged 5.5 months at time of training)
Our daughter is 4 ½ years old. She was a baby who slept from 2 months of age till she was 3 years old with no problems at all. We never really experienced sleepless nights with her until about a year ago! Ava all of a sudden started getting out of bed at night and coming into our room. My husband and I were very determined to not let Ava share our bed with us but that didn't stop Ava. As the year went on she was coming into our room at least 4 nights a week.
Right before we contacted Helen, she was in our room every night!
It was brutal--we had some nights where Ava was up for 2 to 4 hours straight, yelling, screaming and basically disrupting the household.
It was so very stressful and we were all VERY sleep deprived. It felt like this nightmare that would not end.
I googled sleep consultant one morning after a very rough night with Ava. And there was this wonderful woman’s name - Helen Sands! I went onto her website read all her info the testimonials and all. It seemed that this woman was a miracle worker. So I emailed her and within about 30 minutes she had responded back.
Helen saved our family from a very negative place.
On the first week of training I thought “I really hope this works”. The first week was tough, but we stayed consistent stuck to the plan and by week two Ava was in bed 6 nights straight and by week 3 she was in bed for a solid week!
We are all much happier and positive!! Ava's attitude in the day is just unbelievable compared to the last few months.
Helen really knows her stuff and is absolutely amazing. I highly recommend her!!!
Ava is one of the most stubborn, strong willed children I have ever met and Helen’s plan sorted out her problems very quickly.
I never thought we would sleep through the night again - thank you so much Helen for all your hard work and care and concern for our family!
Deanne and Cole, Abbotsford, BC, parents to Ava (aged 4.5 years at time of training)
We contacted Helen when our son Justin was just over 9 months old. He had been sleeping in our room for a few months. We had moved Justin to our room after he was sick a few times and on vacations and had a very hard time moving him back to his room. We read various sleep books and they all had different approaches. We weren’t sure what to do to help our family. We we’re in a real bind and needed help.
We are so happy we contacted Helen. She gave us a detailed sleep plan and provided a lot of support and guidance. Her sleep plan left nothing to chance. After a few nights he was sleeping in his crib overnight for 12 hours with no night wake ups, and sleeping for naps in his crib. Helen also helped us with Justin’s diet to ensure it was on track for his age. Justin nowadays is much happier and calmer when sleeping in his own crib. We also now have some time to ourselves. Thanks so much Helen for all your help. You are a miracle worker. I wish we had contacted you earlier for help.
Randi and Peter, South Surrey BC, parents to Justin (aged 9.5 months at time of training)
Jacob had always been a good sleeper, and adjusted well to going into a bed at an early age, however when we moved to a bigger house he would continually get out of his bed and come out of his room for sometimes up to 3 hours each night, and then would be up at 5.30am the next morning. He was incredibly tired as a result, making it very hard for him to participate in any activities.
Helen developed a special plan for Jacob, which also involved removing the bottle from his life. Now Jacob goes to bed straight away, he no longer has a bottle and does not wake up any earlier than 6.30am. We feel like we have our lives back, and we can now spend more time in the evenings relaxing and enjoying our new baby daughter. I would highly recommend Helen - her sleep plan has been a godsend for us!
Renae and Toby, North Vancouver BC, parents to Jacob aged 21 months at time of training
Our little Bridgit was a great sleeper until she was about 4 months old. We had to feed her until she fell asleep and then move her to her crib. She was waking up many times a night and the only way we could get her back to sleep was to bring her in bed with us and give her a bottle. After about 6 weeks of very little sleep we were ready to breakdown. Thank goodness a friend recommended Helen Sands. Helen's plan was amazing. We committed to it and by the third night Bridgit was sleeping 12 hours a night and having great naps during the day. She has transformed into an amazing sleeper and we're all so much happier. Helen is great and we would recommend her to anyone. Thank you Helen!!
Amy and Justin, Oshawa, Ontario, parents to Bridgit (aged 5.5 months at time of training)
My one-year old baby has just had the privilege of experiencing Helen's sleep plan. In a matter of days, he has gone from waking every hour for comfort and feeding, to sleeping 12 hours on his own! A small miracle, to say the least. I realize of course that my story is not unique - you need only read Helen's testimonial pages to see that time and time again she has worked wonders in people's lives.
Perhaps this consistency in experience is her greatest testament - you know that if you follow her advice, you will have a happy, self-sleeping baby (and be a happy, self-sleeping mommy/daddy too).
She truly is the Mary Poppins of sleep consultants! Thank you Helen, from our little family.
Nicole and Rudy, Burnaby BC, parents to Matthias aged 1 year at time of training
We contacted Helen after 5 months of sleep deprivation and frustration.
Our son needed to be swaddled tightly, rocked, bounced or walked up and down the hallway for close to an hour. It was hard enough getting him to sleep but the instant he was put down he’d fuss and we’d pick him back up and start again. He had issues with waking up every hour throughout the night to use Mom as a soother or to be held for 5 minutes and then off to sleep he went for another hour. We had many nights of him sleeping on our chests, in our arms and in our bed.
We started Helen’s program when our son was 5 month and 1 week and we have never looked back. I was nervous and excited and I have to say what I thought was going to be gut wrenching crying was nothing more than a few cries and some fussing.
We started on a Saturday and he had 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep on his first night. Two days after starting the program he was put into his crib, fell asleep on his own and slept for 12 hours straight! It has been that way ever since we started 3 months ago. He is a much happier baby throughout the day due to being well rested. Napping was an issue but since his night sleep has improved drastically his naps have as well.
I will recommend Helen to anyone that is having issues with sleep. Helen provided us with a comprehensive plan which was easy to implement. Helen was there for me anytime I had questions or concerns and her replies were prompt and reassuring. Helen is amazing and clearly the baby sleep goddess.Thanks Helen!
Anonymous parents to baby boy, North Delta BC, (aged 5 mths at time of training)
We put a lot of work into trying to sleep train our first child. Using a book and spending an enormous amount of time on difficult methods, it took us about 3 months of working at it to get our son to nap and sleep through the night. We recognized how important it was to be consistent and how much happier our whole family was when we all had enough sleep.
When our second child came along, we wanted to help her to get into some healthy sleep habits, but knew that we could not spend nearly as much time on it, given that we had a toddler to take care of.
We could not spend 45 minutes trying to get our baby down to sleep while our 2 and a half year old wandered the house on his own.
Having heard about Helen from a friend, we contacted her to help us sleep train our daughter. By arranging for help with our son for just a few days and focusing on our daughter for this time, we were able to have her trained in less than six days.
Since that time, she has slept great! And that is every day for the past eight months. Now we can put her down in a few minutes and have the entire nap time to play with our son. Our friends and family are amazed at how easily our kids go down to sleep and stay asleep and at how calm and happy our household is.
We are so grateful to Helen for helping us. She is very understanding and responds quickly to all requests. Having children who sleep well has made all the difference for our family. Our kids are well-rested and happy during the day and we have so much more time to enjoy them. THANK YOU AGAIN, HELEN!!!!!!!!
Allana and Dan, BC, parents to Jennifer aged 3.5 months at time of training
Our baby was unable to fall asleep without being swaddled, bounced, and rocked, and he was dependent on his soother. By the time he was 6 months old he was still waking up every 1-2 hours. We desperately needed help but we were nervous and also skeptical that sleep training would work. We hired Helen, and are so glad we did! He now sleeps 12-13 hours every night, with good long naps in the day as well! We can’t believe he’s the same baby!
A few months later, our 3 year old son started waking up in the night as well. He had previously been a good sleeper, so we thought it would resolve itself. When it didn’t, we turned to Helen once again.
Since he was still in a crib at that point, her plan included transitioning him to a bed. The sleep plan was incredibly detailed and well thought out, and it worked! We are so grateful to Helen for all of her help, support and invaluable expertise. We recommend her to everyone we know!
Anonymous parents, Vancouver BC, 2 sons aged 3.5 years, and 5.5 months at time of training
Hi Helen. I have been sleep training Emma since Friday night and it is working perfectly. From day one she has never cried for more than 5 minutes and she pretty much sleeps until 6:30/6:45 am every morning with no waking up in the middle of the night.
Thank you so much for all your help; you are the sleeping guru for babies!!!!!
Mirjana and Jay, Burnaby BC, parents to Emma (13 months at time of training)
Our son had trouble sleeping longer than 3-4 hours in a row before he was 5 months old and then he started waking up every two hours after that. Usually he was not hungry but he just wanted to be held. His lack of sleep at night also turned into poor napping. He could not fall asleep on his own either. It involved lots of rocking and feedings to help him.
Helen was recommended to me from a friend who had great success working with her. I reached out to Helen and from the beginning she was super responsive and very helpful.
By the 5th night our son was putting himself back to sleep on his own at night and falling asleep usually within 5 minutes of being put down to bed. A bonus was that since his night sleeps improved drastically his naps started to fall into place and he is a much happier child. Thank you so much Helen!
Tara and Erick, Toronto, Ontario, parents of Caden (aged 6 months at training)
After twenty days of my 4 month old daughter not wanting to sleep anywhere but on my chest, I was exhausted and at my wits end. She wouldn't sleep on her back for more than 15 minutes and only if swaddled. I was going to bed underneath her at 7am and she would toss and turn every hour and I couldn't get any sleep. Then I contacted Helen. I was apprehensive but maintained a positive attitude during training.
My husband took care of the night training and I did the nap training. At the time our daughter was only breastfed. We wanted her to sleep in her crib and to stop relying on being breastfed and rocked to sleep.
Since following Helen's plan she has been sleeping through the night, without waking to cry, since day 3 and after four weeks her naps are 1 and 1/2 hours long each. I am rejuvenated and so is my husband. We're a much happier family. All thanks to Helen, her specified plan and staying consistent.
Thanks Helen!
Danielle and Jonathan, Ontario, parents of Fiona (aged 4 months at training)
Our son was 5 weeks early and initially slept quite well. However, having to wake and feed him every 2-3 hours for the first 3 months of his life (because he was premature) eventually created a pattern for him. He began waking every 1.5 to 2 hours, no matter what we did. We walked the floor, I was the 'nurse-to-sleep' machine when all else failed. We absolutely dreaded it when he would wake up because he was grumpy, miserable and so were mom and dad! Finally, we knew we were hitting a breaking point. Mom hadn't slept properly for 6 months and this had to stop!
On the advice of a friend, we got Helen's help...and it was AMAZING! The plan was easy to follow, very step-by-step, with not only help with sleeping thru the night, but tips for daytime to help him get the rest that he needed and a routine that worked for him. By night 4, Mom slept for 8 hours in a row without interruptions, and by night 7, he was sleeping 11-12 hours! Now, he is a completely different baby! Cheerful, fun, giggly...a complete 180 from the little guy we had before. Now, we actually look forward to him waking up! :) What a joy! Thanks again Helen! Don't be surprised if you hear from us again with out next little guy, although hopefully I am better equipped so it doesn't get so bad next time! God bless
Stephanie and Adam, Abbotsford BC, parents of James (aged 5 months at training)
Thank you so much for your sleep plan, our daughter is doing great. Last night was the third night and she was asleep in 10 minutes. When she wakes up in the night she is able to put herself back to sleep within a couple of minutes.
The first night she cried for 10 minutes and that was the worst of it. She has caught on so fast. Thank you so much for giving us the gift of sleep, I feel I am capable of being a much better mother and wife because of you.
Janeen and Todd, Langley BC, parents to Isabella (aged 10 months at training)
Lindsay has been a fabulous sleeper since she was 2 months old. All the more reason that we were completely blown away when she started to give us sleep problems at the age of 4 1/4 years.
Sleep time became unpleasant and stressful for us all. I realized that I really needed help! The first night with our daughter on the new plan was rocky, then it took a real turn from the second night onward. Our sleep routine has now returned to a calm, stress-free ritual and she is now staying in her room until 7:20am each and every morning with no more waking in the middle of the night, or at least she's not waking me anymore if she is up! Helen, I can't thank you enough. We are deeply grateful for your gift of information, time and support. You made sure I knew you would always be there if I needed you and you let me know that I've got what it takes! I've never been a person who took the easy road and though this was not an easy road, you certainly made it as easy and pleasant as at all possible and I couldn't have done it without you. What can I say - you are an angel and a gift! You're the BEST!
Eleana and Ender, parents of Lindsay (aged 4 ¾ years), West Vancouver, BC
Working with Helen to provide us with a sleep plan for our daughter was the best parenting decision we have ever made! At 13.5 months, our daughter was still waking through the night 3 to 5 times to breastfeed and/or to have her soother put back in her mouth. She had started part-time daycare and wasn't napping. Keira was cranky and sleep deprived, so we needed to do something to help her learn to sleep on her own.
Based on the information we provided, Helen developed a plan specific to our needs. We were very nervous and skeptical about the whole concept of sleep training, but we were willing to try anything, as we were all sleep-deprived. Helen assured us that if we committed to the plan, she would sleep through the night.
Within 3 days, Keira was sleeping through the night! Her naps at home and daycare became solid within a few weeks. Helen supported us through the whole process and answered our questions in a timely manner. We highly recommend Helen's services, as we have a happy, rested child with a predictable sleep pattern. We will be forever grateful!!! If you are skeptical, GET OVER IT, as it really works!
Brenda and Doug, North Vancouver, BC parents to Keira (aged 13.5 months at training)
When I brought my baby home from the hospital she slept a lot and I thought to myself, oh lucky me! But as my daughter neared the 3-4 month age her sleeping shifted. She would fall asleep on my bed with a bottle and when she was asleep I would transport her to her bassinet/crib.
At this point I wasn’t getting much sleep, she would wake approx. every two hours demanding a bottle and/or soother, and I was one tired woman!
My GP recommended Helen Sands and I made a decision and commitment to follow her program. Within 5 days of Helen’s plan my daughter was sleeping for long stretches.
Here we are now some 2 months later and nothing has changed, my daughter is sleeping on average 10 hours per night, she is happy and so is mommy! I would highly recommend Helen Sands; she is priceless!
Christine, Vancouver BC, parent to Kendall (aged 5 months at time of training)
Our son, Lincoln, was never a good sleeper. He cried as we rocked him to sleep; was waking up 6 or 7 times a night and had to be held for all naps. Helen’s plan for our family was detailed and comprehensive – and made sense to us. After the first hour of training on the first night, Lincoln seemed to “get it”. After that, he knew how to go to sleep and stay asleep on his own – for naps and at night! He is actually happy to go to his crib when he is tired! Now, the whole family is well-rested!! Lincoln is happier than ever and his development has sky-rocketed. As parents, we feel human again and have our lives back. We are truly enjoying parenthood now!Helen was a real life-saver for our family through her plan and her support during and after training. Thank you so much, Helen!
Kimberly & Alden, Vancouver BC, parents to Lincoln (5 ½ months old at time of training)
Before contacting Helen, Carter would not fall asleep without nursing and we were at the point where I was having to lay with him during his daytime naps in order for him stay asleep. We realized that things had to change but were unsure how to go about it.
Carter now naps on his own, in his crib at least twice a day, and is in his crib asleep at night for almost 12 hours. He is a much happier little boy when he is awake and very seldom cries.
We thank Helen for all of her support, and prompt answers to our questions that came up during training.
We are so glad we went ahead with training and will definitely pass her contact information on to friends.
Lesley and Charlie, Vancouver BC, parents to Carter (aged 5 months at time of training)
Contacting Helen to help us with our daughter's sleeping was the best parenting decision we have made. After only three nights, we now have a baby who sleeps 12 hours a night straight through. It has made such a difference in our lives to have a predictable, stress-free bedtime and we have noticed a great improvement in our daughter's temperament now that he is getting a good night's sleep. (The same can apply to her parents...we are now well rested as well!) We can't recommend Helen enough...it was so comforting to have someone experienced to guide us through the challenge of sleep training and be there to support us during the implementation.
Suzy and Ian, Vancouver BC, parents of Talisa (5 months at time of training)
Recently, Helen customized a sleep plan for our daughter Murrin. Murrin did not nap for longer than 20-40 minutes at a time and I had to sleep with her for that to happen. At night she would sleep, in our bed, for 1.5 to 2 hours at a stretch and then have to be nursed back to sleep. Putting her to bed in her crib at night regularly took over an hour, with her crying the whole time whether we held her and rocked her or not, and then having her wake up as soon as we stopped! She was reliant on the soother, nursing, rocking and hand holding in order to go to sleep. I could not have even imagined this before we found Helen. My husband and I have time together, our relationship has blossomed as we each get time to nurture ourselves which makes us both better parents and partners.
I can't recommend Helen's services strongly enough - clear communication, quick responses to questions and the best, most detailed customized sleep plan made this worth every penny and more. Thank you, Helen!
Heather and Matthew, Nelson BC, parents to Murrin (aged 5 months at time of training)
When our daughter Ruby was 8 months old, I hired Helen to help us to get her to sleep through the night. At this point Ruby was waking every 2-3 hours a night for milk - I was so exhausted and at wit’s end. I heard of Helen through a friend who had met with great success using Helen’s strategies for her baby girl. After 2-3 weeks of following Helen’s plan for our Ruby, she was sleeping from 7:00 pm right through to 6:00 am every night and this was just the beginning. Ruby was also having 2 beautiful 1.5 hour naps a day and waking up happy. One of the best things is that we can take Ruby anywhere and we have no problem putting her down to sleep and she does not awaken during the night. I cannot thank Helen enough for her great assistance and support through these months. I would highly recommend her to anyone having sleep issues with their children. I am so impressed by Helen’s incredible knowledge of babies and children.
Tina and James, Pemberton BC, parents of Ruby (aged 8 months at time of training)
Lukas was 4 months and waking every night between 5-8 times. His naps were anywhere from 20-45 minutes 3 times a day. I would nurse and rock him to sleep. Putting him down for naps or at night would take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 ½ hours! I was living off 2 hours sleep a night and was a wreck. When we received the plan we were so excited and a little anxious to get started! By the 3rd night he was sleeping from 7:30 pm to 6:00 am! Lukas is now having 1 ½-2 hour naps at least twice a day. Once we got into the routine I noticed that Lukas was nursing better then he ever had. Bedtime is no longer stressful or difficult; it is a time that we both enjoy with him. The best part of this process has been when I put him down in his crib he looks up at me, smiles, closes his eyes and fall asleep! This was the best gift I could ever give my son and my family! Thank you Helen!
Barb and Mark, Cloverdale BC, parents of Lukas (aged 4 months at time of training)
We contacted Helen when our son Elliott was 5 months old after one particularly bad night where Elliott was up every 45 minutes needing to nurse to be put back to sleep. We tried EVERYTHING to get him to sleep at night and for naps – rocking, nursing, using our sling, taking him for stroller walks – and often times he would fall asleep – but then be wide awake 20-40 minutes later crying and exhausted. On the FIRST night that we used Helen’s sleep plan Elliott slept for 11 hours – and ever since he has slept very consistently from 7:15pm-7:30am! He has great naps during the day and is a MUCH happier baby since he is getting the sleep he (and we!) needs. We would (and have!) recommend Helen to any of our friends who are having difficulties getting their babies to sleep through the night. We often refer to Helen as “Our sleep Goddess” – and our friends we referred to her, claim that someone needs to name tall buildings after her!
Sarah and Dave, Vancouver BC, parents to Elliott (5 1/2 months at the time of training)
Our daughter Indah had always been a great sleeper! As she got older and our lives became busier with our 5-year old son and home business, we fell back on "quick fixes" such as nursing to sleep. Indah decided she no longer wanted to nurse to sleep and insisted that I lie down with her, at times for 2-3 hours, resulting in her falling asleep sometimes at 11pm! I quickly got to the point where we could no longer continue and I had no energy left. With Helen's detailed plan and support, combined with our commitment to follow the plan, our daughter now sleeps earlier, and wakes up happy and rested. My son enjoys quality time with us at night before he goes to bed, not to mention my husband and I after that! And since I work from home, I have more time to work at night and get more sleep as well! Thank you Helen!
Sharon & Vanny, Vancouver BC, parents to Indah (2 years & 4 months at time of training)
Our baby boy is a ton of fun, because now he is sleeping through the night and getting the rest he needs! We were so fatigued after 12 months of little sleep. We breastfed him to sleep for every nap, nighttime sleep and every night awakening too. We had read books, took baby sleep seminars, tried the horrible "cry it out" method, had music playing and much more. We finally took the leap, and as an early Christmas present to ourselves, we hired Helen, after an excellent recommendation from two of our friends.
In just 2 nights, Leo went from a baby standing holding onto the crib rails crying and screaming, not sleeping more than 2-3 hours at a time (for the past year!) to a baby that learned how to get himself down from the crib rails, settle himself and sleep for 10 hours straight. On the third night of training, he slept 11 hours and achieved 2 daytime naps. We were aghast and we think this woman is a Genius!! She gave us a clear, detailed plan that was specific to our needs and Leo responded instantly!
We not only had a baby sleeping through the night, but we could now track his nutrition and had a platform from which to start weaning our son. It was so life changing that we are still in awe at details that make Helen so good at what she does. Thank you!
Brenda and Sig, Calgary, Alberta, parents to Leo (aged 12 months at time of training)
Finding Helen was a godsend! Before following her plan, Luc was up every 45 minutes to 1.5 hours all night long. Returning him to sleep involved constant nursing and/or rocking. I became completely exhausted…and resentful of him. I could barely function throughout the day! I thought for certain that Luc would be the only baby who wouldn’t respond to sleep training, but after only 3 nights of training, Luc began sleeping from 7pm to 6:30am. He continues to do so a month afterwards. I would recommend Helen to anyone whose child is experiencing sleep difficulties. My life quality has returned and our family is so much happier for having used Helen’s plan to sleep train our son.
Julie and Mike, Vancouver, BC, parents to Luc (aged 4.5 months at time of training)
We are so very thankful to have been introduced to you Helen. Your techniques all made sense but we wouldn’t have known how to go about it on our own. We’ve been struggling with various sleep, feeding and health issues for nine months. After two days my friends said I looked like I went to the spa because I’d gotten more sleep in two days than I had in eight monthsJ
Thank you again, we can’t tell you how much we appreciate what you’ve done for us!
Bob & Marci, New Westmister, BC, parents to Owen (aged 10 months at time of training)
Evan was never a good sleeper. For the first six months of his life he would only sleep in someone’s arms or lying on their chest (usually Mommy’s!). He had to be either nursed-to-sleep or rocked. Daytime naps were almost non-existent – and usually not worth the hours it would take to rock him only to get a twenty minute nap. Following his first birthday we were at the end of our rope and completely exhausted. The first night of sleep training was amazing! Evan seemed to understand quickly and for the first time, he lay himself down and went to sleep on his own. He repeated this each time he woke during that first night and was back asleep within minutes. On the following nights he woke fewer times and he was sleeping 11 or more hours each night and napping in the afternoon very easily!! Bedtime is a happy, relaxed time now without fights. Daddy can participate in sleep time routines now and share those special moments with Evan. We are all rested and so much happier. Our busy little boy now has the energy to do even more! Helen’s sleep plan has completely changed our life for the better!! We wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone dealing with children’s sleep issues.
Linda and Brent, Calgary Alberta, parents to Evan (aged 13 months at training)
Helen Sands changed our lives with our baby Emma, and allowed our family to have more quality time together. We are all more rested! Emma’s sleep plan was so detailed for her needs. To put it lightly, it gave me the courage and confidence to follow through with a sleep plan which in the past I was always very skeptical and nervous to do. With Emma, our second child, she sleeps 12.5 hours per night, and sleeps free of crutches such as rocking her and walking the house holding her for hours a day or next to that kitchen fan to put her to sleep! We're ecstatic to say goodbye to those long enduring days and nights of sleep crutches and so thankful little Emma is happy to go to bed independently and self soothe! Our life is back in order. It's a miracle I wasn't sure could happen but so thankful we tried! I highly recommend Helen’s services as she is very professional, knowledgeable, supportive, genuinely caring and prompt in responding to you and your baby's needs during sleep training. It truly is the best gift to the family! Thx Helen
Tammy and Dustin, Port Moody, BC, parents to Emma (aged 4 months at time of training)
Before Helen we were up an average of five to six times a night with our two kids. Dad had been sleeping with Riley for the last year. At the time Mason was nine months and Riley two years and a half. After reading what the plan included, our worries disappeared. The plan was clear and doable even for dummies. It took our older son three nights to get it and our younger son four nights to sleep through the entire night. It's been over a month since both of them have been sleeping through the night. We get to watch movies again and have a few hours to ourselves to talk and relax. Helen you are really the best. Thank you so much for giving us our lives back.
Nancy and Roger, Coquitlam BC, parents to Mason and Riley (aged 9 months and 2.5 years at time of training)
There are so many things to buy for your first baby, but without a doubt Helen was the best money we spent, by far. Helen gave us our lives back. After almost a year of numerous night wakings and poor napping, we now have that sleep schedule that new parents dream about. It's the one in which the baby naps on cue with little help from Mum/Dad, goes to bed early, and sleeps right until morning. If our son does happen to wake during the night, it's not a problem because he knows how to put himself back to sleep. Our family works because of Helen and we all get the best of each other when we spend time together.
Kerri and Peter, North Vancouver BC - parents to Rhoan (aged 11 months at time of training)
Dear Helen, Emma has slept through the night for the last 2 nights. She is napping well and seems very content. Grace is napping regularly in the afternoons – which is an absolute miracle to us. The other day my husband said a bit as a joke “Grace it’s almost nap time – why don’t you go put yourself to sleep.” AND SHE DID. We nearly fell over we were so shocked. She is also sleeping through the night – not waking or crying or crawling into bed with us. We are beyond thrilled. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU. We do feel like human beings again. Oh – and most days Grace and Emma are napping together for at least some part of their nap so I am able to put my head down for a few minutes or get dinner ready while they are sleeping – absolute miracles.
Laurie and Carle, Vancouver, BC, parents to Emma (aged 7 mths) and Grace (aged 2 ¾ years) at time of training
We brought our son Anthony home from the hospital 6½ years ago and from the beginning he was difficult to put down at night. Anthony had to be nursed, rocked, and cuddled to sleep and never slept long. We tried putting him down awake in his crib and he would just scream and cry and we couldn’t take it! We gave in and he slept with us every night for 6 years so we could get some sleep. He not only slept with us but also went to sleep too late which left us stressed and exhausted. Helen developed a sleep program just for us based on the evaluation we completed for her!! It took two challenging nights and that was it. We couldn’t believe it!! We expected a month of long nights. He not only sleeps in his own room but also goes to bed at a decent hour. We thought nothing would work due to his age, but she assured us it was not too late! It changed our lives!! We can’t believe we waited so long to find someone like Helen but we aren’t looking back only forward. Helen is fantastic and we highly recommend her services.
Graham & Kathy, Coquitlam, BC, parents of Anthony (aged 6 years at time of training)
We contacted Helen when Cole was 8 months old and still up at least 2-3 times a night, feeding at least one of those times and needed his bottle in his mouth to fall asleep. We were completely amazed at how well Helen’s plan worked and how quickly ... By night 2 Cole slept 10.5 hours straight!!!! By night 4 he was sleeping 11.5 – 12 hours. During the training Cole got sick and had both top front teeth come in with only minor disruptions to his sleeping. I’m amazed at how much better he sleeps during the day and how he goes down without a fight. Thank you so much Helen and we will be referring people to you for years to come!
Beth and Tom, Calgary, Alberta, parents to Cole, aged 8 months at time of training
We hired Helen soon after my returning back to work. My "nightly routine" of rocking and co-sleeping with my daughter and getting up every few hours for a bottle and pacifier was no longer working for us. My 13 month old, Ceileigh, had to sleep very close or right on top of me and she was still waking numerous times through the night. Our professional lives and relationship were being neglected by the lack of sleep all 3 of us were experiencing. We were extremely nervous about the whole process, not having the confidence that we could be successful. The sleep plan was so detailed and suited us perfectly. We saw improvement after only 2 nights and by night 5 had 100% success. I never thought sleep training would be so easy, it even works when we are camping, travelling and staying at friends’ houses! With this wonderful schedule we now have time for date nights and we have a very happy, healthy, well rested little girl, who has the energy to do all of the things she loves to do! Thank you Helen, for everything!
Aimee and Todd, Langley BC, parents to Ceileigh aged 13 months time of training
"From the moment I sent that first email to Helen, she was prompt at answering my questions and very reassuring that training would work for our family. We lived our lives tiptoeing around afraid that we would wake our sleeping baby and have to endure an hour or more of trying to settle him down again. Helen's plan was very detailed and easy to follow. Helen was extremely supportive and encouraging and was the motivation we needed to get through. We saw results in 2 nights. One week into training and we were living with a different baby - we had couple time in the evenings and could get chores done without sacrificing quality playtime during the day. We now have a baby who looks forward to bedtime and we're so confidant in our routine that we can schedule appointments or have people over in the evenings knowing that our baby will sleep right through. I would highly recommend the Helen to anyone - even if you think your baby cannot be trained. I thought that way and am amazed at the change."
Andrea and Paul, parents to Patrick (aged 8 mths at time of training)
We contacted Helen when our son Braeden was almost 9 months old. We were exhausted and so frustrated! Braeden was waking up at least 3 or 4 times a night to breastfeed and to put him down at night or for naps took nursing him to sleep, and/or a combination of rocking him, bouncing him, or walking him. Sometimes none of these methods would work and we would wait till he was near exhaustion. Helen helped us all get our sleep back and now Braeden is a happy and healthy baby that sleeps 11 hours solid at night with two solid naps during the day! When Braeden is awake he is now happy, alert and ready to tackle the day! Thank you Helen for giving us back our sanity!!
Colleen & Victor, Aylmer Quebec, parents to Braeden (aged 9 months at time of training)
We contacted Helen after months of our 13 month old daughter, Tiia, sleeping in our bed. She had always been a great sleeper, in her crib until she had a bad cold and we let her into our bed. It became a habit that we couldn't break. We attempted everything we could think of to get her back into her crib, and nothing worked. Tiia would fall sleep, be placed in her crib and within a few hours be up and crying hysterically until she made herself sick. If we tried putting her back down after cleaning up she would just get sick again. When I found Helen I was skeptical, but ready to try one more thing, and we are so incredibly happy that we did! We know have a baby who sleeps peacefully through the night, wakes rested and naps wonderfully! It was amazing and now she's happiest in her crib even when teething.
Thank you again Helen, for giving us our well rested happy baby. Your support and wisdom were invaluable. I can't tell you how ecstatic we are with Tiia's new sleep success. We are so proud of her.
Krista and Doug, Nelson BC, parents to Tiia, aged 13 months at time of training
When we finally contacted Helen, our son Rainen was 11 months old and had not once slept through the night. In fact, in the evening, he would wake up approximately 45 minutes after bedtime. I would rock him back to sleep and he would wake up every 2 to 3 hours throughout the rest of the night. That was a good night. On a bad night, he would be awake for 2 to 3 hours in the middle of the night. My husband and I were exhausted, overwhelmed and bickering. When it comes to a baby’s sleep, “almost” doesn’t cut it. My husband and I readied ourselves and by the second night, I put Rainen down in his crib awake and he was asleep within 5 minutes. He then slept through the night! Our home is a much more rested and happy place. Thank you, Helen!
Jocelyne and Robert, Ottawa, Ontario - parents to Rainen aged 11 months at time of training)
After watching friends suffer with sleep exhaustion with their own children, we really wanted to implement some good sleep habits early on. We were both worried about accidentally introducing bad habits that would then haunt us down the road! On top of that, our own sleepless nights, with the frequent feedings of a newborn, made it tempting to go for the "quick fixes" - even if they would backfire later. We heard about Helen and the "sleep shaping" help she could give us and were keen to learn more. We opted for the home visit. Her demeanour was reassuring. She was helpful, and she gave us some great advice to help lay the groundwork for good sleep. Our once-frequent waker is sleeping longer and better at night and during the day, and we are too!! Now we feel like he has a good, solid foundation of sleep habits that will carry him through the years - and he is a happy, eager, excited baby, because he gets enough rest! We have recommended Helen already to other friends and will continue to do so!
Anonymous Mom and Dad, Richmond BC, parents of Michael (aged 10 weeks at time of sleep shaping)
Thank you for all your help and support during training. We have notice a significant change in Alexandra’s demeanour. She no longer fusses and cries for no reason. She is a lot happier and able to play well. Our nickname for Alexandra was 'sleep fighter' before sleep training and now after sleep training it is 'happy baby'.
Your knowledge, service and sleep plan has really helped our family. I would not hesitate to recommend your services to anyone who needs help.
Stella and Jeff, Vancouver BC, parents of Alexandra
PHOTO GALLERY OF SOME VALUED CLIENTS!
Please enjoy these lovely images of my special clients who are now enjoying healthy, quality sleep!
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Kendall Vancouver, BC
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Lincoln Vancouver BC |
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Carter Vancouver BC |
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Talisa Vancouver BC |
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Murrin Nelson BC |
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Ruby Pemberton BC
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Lukas Cloverdale BC |
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Evan Calgary Alberta
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Elliott Vancouver, BC |
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Indah Vancouver BC
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Clara Vancouver, BC |
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Ava Burnaby BC (Ava traveled in Europe and was photographed asleep on a table top in the train! She can sleep anywhere now!) |
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Emma Ottawa, Ontario |
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Nicholas Vancouver, BC |
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Victoria Vancouver, BC |
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Peter Pemberton, BC |
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Caroline Wisconsin, USA |
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Avari Sunshine Coast BC |
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Rebecca Ottawa, Ontario |
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Lauren Vancouver Island BC |
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Nicholas Vancouver BC |
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Zachary Northern California, USA |
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Mackenzie Burnaby BC
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Alexander Burnaby BC |
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Sophia Burnaby BC |
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Noah Ottawa, Ontario |
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Casey Burnaby BC |
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Claire Lethbridge, Alberta |
