Sleep is more than just a nightly ritual. It is a cornerstone of cognitive function, emotional well-being, and even academic performance, especially in children. With a growing need for consultants who can guide families through the maze of sleep issues, child sleep consulting has emerged as a sought-after profession.
In this exclusive interview, we delve deep into the world of infant sleep consulting with Aline Huber, a certified sleep consultant and a teacher at the International Institute of Infant Sleep. Stay tuned to learn about her personal journey into sleep consulting, how to become a sleep consultant at the International Institute of Infant Sleep, and what it truly takes to make a meaningful impact in this field.
Tamara Lacy: Thank you for joining us today, Aline. To begin with, could you expand a little on what motivated you to become both a sleep consultant and a teacher at the International Institute of Infant Sleep? Many of our readers are interested to know how professionals like you find their calling.
Aline Huber: Absolutely, I’m delighted to be here. My journey into sleep consulting started when I became a parent myself and I understood the crucial role sleep plays in a family’s well-being. We struggled with sleep issues and it became a very trying time for our family. That is when I began researching, attending workshops, and diving into scientific literature about infant sleep.
I spent months reading up on sleep cycles, behavioral science, and holistic wellness. After successfully implementing sleep training methods with my own child, I realized that there must be countless other families facing similar challenges.
Eventually, I came across the International Institute of Infant Sleep. I was really drawn to their evidence-based approach and comprehensive training programs. After completing my certification and several years of experience in the field, I realized that I had an opportunity to contribute to the institute by becoming a teacher, thereby helping train the next generation of sleep consultants. It felt like the perfect way to give back and extend my impact, so here I am.
Tamara Lacy: It’s amazing how personal experiences can lead to fulfilling careers, isn’t it?
Aline Huber: Absolutely. You never really know where life will take you, but sometimes the most challenging experiences lead to the most rewarding opportunities.
Tamara Lacy: The International Institute of Infant Sleep offers a wide range of programs, from Core to Advanced to Extensive. Could you briefly describe each one?
Aline Huber: Of course. The Core Program is designed to give students the fundamental knowledge and skills they need to start working with families. The Advanced Program builds upon that by introducing more complex topics, like attachment theory, various conditions that can affect sleep and comprehensive business training. Lastly, the Extensive Program includes everything from the Core and Advanced Programs, plus one-on-one sessions with instructors like myself to guide students in setting up their own sleep consulting businesses.
Tamara Lacy: Aline, the curriculum at the International Institute of Infant Sleep is often described as comprehensive and scientifically grounded. Can you elaborate on how the institute ensures its educational content meets such a high standard?
Aline Huber: Of course. The hallmark of our institute is our dedication to a curriculum that is both comprehensive and deeply grounded in scientific research. While it’s tempting for some educational programs to piece together content based on popular articles or the latest trends, we’re committed to a more rigorous standard. Our curriculum includes findings from scientific journals, as well as expert contributions and well-regarded textbooks. So, when you’re learning from us, you’re not just relying on someone’s opinion; you’re gaining knowledge and techniques that have been methodically researched and validated.
Tamara Lacy: Thank you for clarifying that, Aline. A topic that’s frequently discussed is the significance of earning a sleep consultant certification. Can you elaborate on what makes this particular certification so impactful?
Aline Huber: Absolutely. Completing a program with us leads to earning a sleep consultant certification that is respected internationally. This certification isn’t an online badge or a certificate you can obtain in a hurry. It carries weight. That is because we have a reputation for thorough, evidence-based training.
While the certificate itself won’t automatically make you an expert, it does indicate to parents that you’ve invested in a robust training program, one that is grounded in credible practices and methods. In a field where the first thing parents often look for is trust, having a recognized certification shows you are serious and committed to your role as a sleep consultant.
Tamara Lacy: For those considering the course, it’s helpful to know what elements might be more challenging. What aspects of the program do students usually find the most challenging, and how does the Institute help them navigate?
Aline Huber: A consistent challenge that many students face is solving the case study exams. These aren’t your typical multiple-choice tests. They’re designed to simulate the kind of scenarios a sleep consultant will face in real life. So, you’re asked to apply a nuanced understanding of theories and techniques to solve practical issues that parents might face.
To guide our students through these complexities, the Institute offers a multi-faceted support system. First, students receive regular, constructive feedback from their instructors—this isn’t just about grading; it’s about explaining the ‘why’ behind the grade. Was the chosen sleep training method appropriate for the hypothetical age and temperament of the child in the case study? Was the communication strategy with the parents well-thought-out?
Secondly, our program includes practical exercises that serve as a sort of rehearsal for these case studies. These exercises are embedded throughout the course material, allowing students to practice applying theoretical concepts in real-world-like scenarios before they get to the exams.
So, while the case study exams are challenging, they are also one of the most effective tools we have for preparing our students to excel in their careers. And we are fully committed to supporting our students in mastering these challenges.
Tamara Lacy: Could you talk a bit about the teaching methods and resources available to students? I hear you use Canvas LMS.
Aline Huber: Yes, we use Canvas LMS, a state-of-the-art Learning Management System that is also used by some of the world’s top universities. We provide study resources written by professionals with backgrounds in healthcare, psychology, consulting, and business. Students also gain know-how from experienced child sleep consultants who adopt a holistic approach, ensuring that they’re well-equipped to make a real difference in the lives of children and parents.
Tamara Lacy: Finally, what advice would you give to someone considering a career as a sleep consultant?
Aline Huber: It’s a rewarding field, both emotionally and financially, but it does require dedication and a commitment to continuous learning. Always keep in mind that you are not just teaching parents how to help their child sleep through the night. You are transforming the lives of entire families. So, if you have a genuine interest in making a meaningful impact and are prepared for an immersive educational journey, this could be the right choice for you.
Tamara Lacy: Thank you for your time and insights, Aline. It’s clear that the International Institute of Infant Sleep is not just another educational institute; it’s a place where aspiring sleep consultants can receive a comprehensive, scientifically-grounded education.
Aline Huber: Thank you for having me. Our mission is to reach as many families as possible through the expertise of our graduates, and it’s wonderful to have a platform to share more about what we do.
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