When maternity leave ends: how gentle sleep support can help you both thrive
As a gentle sleep consultant and mother of three, I know first-hand how the return to work after maternity leave brings a whirlwind of emotions: anticipation, guilt, relief, anxiety and everything in between. One of the most common concerns I hear from families in this season of transition is: How will my baby’s sleep be affected – and how will I cope with my own exhaustion? Let’s talk about that.
The emotional landscape
Leaving your baby to return to work is a major milestone. Whether you're counting down the days with a heavy heart or ready to embrace the rhythm of professional life again, your feelings are valid. It's a complex adjustment and sleep often becomes a linchpin in how manageable (or overwhelming) it feels.
If your baby is still waking frequently, taking short naps, or struggling with bedtime, it can add layers of stress to your already full plate. You’re waking at night, rushing in the morning, and trying to perform at work on broken sleep. That’s not sustainable – and it’s where gentle sleep support can be a total game changer.
Gentle sleep support isn’t “all or nothing”
Many parents fear that improving sleep means harsh sleep training methods. But gentle sleep consulting honours your attachment, your baby's temperament and your family's values. It’s not about rigid schedules or crying-it-out. It’s about meeting your child where they are and guiding them toward independent sleep in a way that feels respectful and responsive.
So, if you're preparing to go back to work, we can begin to gently build sleep foundations that will support your baby – and your whole family – through the transition.
Nursery naps: what to expect and how to support them
One of the biggest concerns I hear is: “What if my baby won’t nap at nursery?” And it’s a valid worry: nursery naps can be unpredictable at first. A completely new environment, different caregivers, more noise and light... it’s a lot for a baby who’s used to a cosy, quiet and familiar space at home.
Here’s how to ease the adjustment:
Lower your expectations initially. Many babies take short or skipped naps when they first start nursery. That’s normal. Their sleep will often settle once they get used to the environment and routines.
Focus on consistency at home. While you may not have full control over naps at nursery, you do have control over bedtime and weekends. Create a consistent wind-down routine and early bedtime on nursery days to make up for missed daytime sleep.
Communicate with caregivers. Don’t be afraid to ask how naps are going or to share what works well at home. For example their favourite comfort item, a dummy, white noise or a soothing song. Most nurseries are happy to work with you to support your baby’s individual needs.
Offer connection and calm in the evenings. If naps are short or fragmented, your baby may be extra tired and clingy after nursery. Keep the evening simple: a calm environment, time to reconnect through play or cuddles and a consistent bedtime routine. You may need to bring your little one’s bedtime forward if they’re extra tired or add in a short powernap to help keep them going.
Remember, even if naps aren’t perfect at nursery, they can still thrive with solid sleep habits at home and a gentle approach.
A few more tips for the return-to-work transition
Start early if you can. Use the final weeks of leave to ease into a nap and bedtime rhythm that mirrors what your baby will experience once you're back at work.
Practice separation. Short, positive separations can help your baby adjust to being with another caregiver – and make sleep in new settings feel less intimidating.
Focus on connection, not perfection. When you're reunited after work, lean into those bedtime snuggles and routines. That emotional reconnection is just as important as any schedule.
Know that regressions are normal. Developmental leaps and changes in routine can cause temporary sleep setbacks. Be consistent, supportive and patient.
Take care of your sleep too. Your wellbeing matters. If you're struggling to function on broken sleep, you're not failing – you're human. Let’s work together to build a plan that gets everyone more rest.
You’re not alone in this
Returning to work doesn’t have to mean sleep deprivation, constant worry, or losing your bond with your baby. With the right support, this transition can become a time of growth and resilience – for both of you.
As an experienced infant sleep consultant, my role goes beyond helping your baby sleep better. I’m here to support you –emotionally, practically and with empathy – through every step of this important change. Whether you’re seeking trusted infant sleep advice, evidence-based baby sleep tips or the reassurance of working with a compassionate baby sleep expert, I’m here to help make things feel more manageable. If you're facing this transition and wondering how sleep support could ease the path, let’s create a plan that feels right for your family. Simply book a discovery call now.