Level 6 OCN (degree level, evidence-based study)
Fully insured (Westminster Insurance)
DBS checked
Hi, I'm Emma
When I gave birth to my daughter, Elouise, in October 2022, sleep was not quite what I'd expected!
I'd bought a lovely Snuzpod, fully expecting her to take all her naps and sleep overnight in there. But before we'd even left the hospital, we found ourselves co-sleeping and contact napping. I'd never even heard of either term before becoming a mum! I think that lovely Snuzpod was used about twice before she outgrew it.
Like many new parents, I expected sleep to be tricky for the first few months. But while the babies around me seemed to be sleeping better, Elouise was waking more and more frequently. At times, it felt like we had absolutely no control over sleep, and I started questioning everything. Was it because we were co-sleeping? Was it because I was breastfeeding her throughout the night? Had I somehow created these problems myself?
By the time Elouise was six months old, I felt enormous pressure to sleep train. I didn't really understand what my options were, and the methods I initially came across didn't feel right for our family.
That's when I discovered sleep coaching, and everything changed.
Working with a sleep consultant helped me understand what was normal for infant sleep, what might be contributing to our difficult nights and, most importantly, what we could actually do about it.
We started seeing positive changes, but it wasn't just the sleep improvements that made such a difference. I finally felt informed, confident in my parenting decisions and much more in control of our situation.
I became fascinated by the science of infant sleep and wanted to understand the evidence behind different approaches. I went on to complete my Level 6 OCN-accredited sleep coaching qualification, and Oh Bear Sleep was born!
Since then, becoming a mum of two and navigating my own return to work has given me an even greater understanding of just how much sleep affects family life.
I know what it's like to face a working day after a broken night, to worry about how your child will nap at nursery, and to try to squeeze dinner, bedtime and a little quality time together into those precious hours after work.
And I know that what works brilliantly for one family might be completely wrong for another.
That's why my approach isn't about following one particular sleep training philosophy. I take the time to understand your child, your family circumstances and what you're comfortable with, before recommending an approach that works for you.
Whether you're looking to improve naps, reduce night wakings, share settling with your partner or simply make family life feel a little more manageable, my goal is to help you get the sleep you need in a way that works for your child and your family.
Emma x
Frequently asked questions
What qualifications do you have?
I completed the Holistic Sleep Coaching Program which is the most comprehensive, evidence-based sleep coaching program available internationally. I now hold the Level 6 OCN Holistic Sleep Coach accreditation (degree level study).
I completed modules as part of the program that cover attachment; family-centred care; sleep biology; sleep pathologies; sleep hygiene; safe sleep; sleep strategies; child temperament; child development; child behaviour; breastfeeding; bottle feeding; feeding problems; nutrition; allergies; anxiety; sensory needs; and special needs.
What inspired you to become a sleep consultant?
I was inspired to become a sleep consultant after having a daughter that would not sleep! After working with a gentle sleep consultant myself, I really appreciated the support and was intrigued about the science behind the sleep strategies.
Having been there myself trying to look after a baby on half an hour of (broken) sleep and once hallucinating that a midwife was passing me 36 babies to breastfeed (!), I feel as though I have the understanding and empathy to help other families who are currently struggling with sleep.
Do you guarantee that my little one’s sleep will improve?
I can’t guarantee any particular outcome or result, within a particular timeframe. It will be important for you to work with me and be consistent in applying your bespoke sleep plan as this is when you will see the best results. We will always discuss a few different strategies as each child is unique and what works perfectly for one, may not work for another.
One of the key benefits of the program I completed is that we have the ongoing support of the course’s Clinical Director, Dr. Lyndsey Hookway, as well as other graduates. I therefore believe that even in the most challenging of cases, we would be able to lean on this support and make some suggestions that lead to an improvement in sleep.
Why the name ‘Oh Bear’ Sleep?
When I eventually get married, my new surname will be Aubert (pronounced Oh-Bear), so it seemed fitting! My daughter was also called our little Doughbear before she was born which was a combination of our surnames so it reminds me of this very special time and her nickname.
