As featured on Midlands 103 FM with Will Faulkner
Guest Expert: Johann Callaghan — Sleep Expert, Author, Podcaster & Mum
“Fifteen days a year.”
That’s how many days parents lose annually trying to get their young child to sleep, according to a recent CBeebies survey. Two-thirds of parents say their child’s sleep routine disrupts their own at least once a week. One in eight say it happens every single night.
It’s no surprise to sleep expert and mum, Johann Callaghan.
“It can be very challenging — I’ve lived through it myself. And while every child is different, the one thing they all benefit from is routine, habits, and structure.”
The Impact of Broken Sleep on Families
Sleep deprivation doesn’t just affect children. It disrupts the entire household — impacting mood, decision-making, and mental well-being.
“It’s a family affair,” says Johann. “We think it’s just the kids, but when sleep breaks down, the ripple effect is massive — especially for parents trying to juggle so much.”
What Can Parents Do?
While some parents resort to unconventional sleep techniques — from playing business meeting recordings to driving around the block — Johann says a consistent bedtime routine is key.
Here are her top tips:
Play “Cognitive Shuffle” Games
“This is something I loved doing with my daughter. Pick a fun topic — like characters from their favorite show — and go through them alphabetically. It shifts their mind from stress to something playful and calming.”
Cut the Screen Time
“Reducing screen time is huge — and it’s not just for kids. Parents need to walk the talk. Children copy what they see. If you want your child to relax and unwind, you need to model that behavior too.”
Deep Breathing for Parents
Many parents find their own sleep suffers even after their child has gone down — the mind keeps racing.
“Belly breathing is one of the best techniques. It signals safety to the body. When we feel safe, we sleep better. And for mums, especially those also dealing with menopause, this is a powerful, simple tool.”
Why Sleep Feels So Elusive Today
“We don’t face sabre-toothed tigers anymore, but our bodies still react to stress as if we do. Modern life is fast and full of distractions. We have to train our nervous systems to feel safe again — through breathwork, slowing down, and intentional routines.”
Final Thought from Johann
“Sleep isn’t just about the night — it’s about how we live our days. The more calm and structure we create during the day, the easier bedtime becomes for everyone.”
Want to hear the full interview?
[Click here to listen to Johann on Midlands 103 with Will Faulkner]
Johann Callaghan is a certified sleep science coach, bestselling author of How to Get a Good Night’s Sleep, and host of the Empowering Family Health podcast. She helps women and families reclaim energy, well-being and success through better sleep and self-care.
