
Professional Development & Staff Training for Childcare Programs
Supporting educators through sleep. rest time. and regulation - with compassion and clarity.
How I support Childcare Programs
At Little Sleep Wonders, I offer professional development trainings for daycare and early childhood programs focused on sleep, rest time, and emotional regulation in young children.
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These trainings are designed to support educators in one of the most challenging part of the day - rest time - especially when children no longer nap or struggle to settle. My approach is developmentally appropriate, practical, and grounded in real classroom realities.
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My goal is not to "fix" children or place blame on staff or families. Instead, I help educators better understand why rest time can be hard for some children and provide clear, calm strategies that support both awake children and those who need sleep.
What Makes These Trainings Different
These sessions are:
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Practical and realistic for busy classrooms
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Developmentally appropriate and respectful of children's needs
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Focused on prevention, not punishment
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Supportive of educator well-being and classroom flow
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Educators leave feeling validated, supported, and equipped with tools they can use immediately.
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Each training includes printable handouts for classroom reference and a certificate of attendance documenting professional development hours.
Training Topics
Trainings may be offered as stand-alone sessions or customized to meet your program's needs.
Common topics include:
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Supporting Non-Nappers During Rest Time
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Developmentally Appropriate Sleep & Rest Expectations
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Sleep, Behavior, and Emotional Regulation in Young Children
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Creating Calm Rest-Time Routines and Transitions
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Responding to Rest-Time Disruptions with Confidence
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Communicating with Families About Sleep and Rest Challenges
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Additional topics may be available up request.
What to Expect from a Training
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Clear explanations of why some children struggle with rest time
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Practical strategies for supporting non-nappers without disrupting sleepers
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Step-by-step guidance for handling rest-time disruptions
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Supportive, respectful language educators can use with children
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Tools that reduce stress and improve classroom flow
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Printable handouts and a certificate of attendance for professional development documentation
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Trainings are offered in person of virtually, depending on your program's needs and location.
Who These Trainings Are For
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Daycare and childcare centers
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Preschool programs
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Early childhood educators and staff
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Programs supporting toddlers and preschoolers transitioning out of naps
Scheduling & Investment
Training fees vary based on session length, format (in-person or virtual), and program size.
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Once a training date and format are confirmed, an invoice will be provided. Payment is due prior to the day of the scheduled training.
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To inquire about availability, pricing, or a customized training for your program, please contact me via email, text, phone, or social media.
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Email: info@littlesleepwonders.com
Phone: 207-498-9988 or 319-213-2999
Instagram: @little.sleep.wonders
Facebook: Little Sleep Wonders LLC - Pediatric Sleep Coaching
About the Trainer
Trainings are led by Tara O'Connor, Pediatric Sleep Coach and founder of Little Sleep Wonders LLC.
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Tara brings a compassionate, educational approach to sleep and rest challenges, shaped by both professional experience and personal advocacy. She is passionate about helping caregivers and educators feel confident, supported, and empowered when navigating sleep-related challenges in early childhood settings.
