Episode 102: Father-Led Sleep Training with Wes MacDermott

Sleep training is one of the most discussed (and sometimes controversial) topics in parenting. Many families struggle with night weaning and getting their babies to sleep through the night in a way that feels both loving and sustainable. In this special episode of Healthy As A Mother, Dr. Morgan MacDermott and her husband, Wes, break down their unique, father-led sleep training method—a gentle, partner-supported approach that has worked for all four of their children.

If you're looking for an alternative to traditional sleep training methods, this episode is packed with practical guidance, real-life experiences, and tips that can help you navigate this transition with confidence.

Why Father-Led Sleep Training?

Many sleep training methods rely heavily on the mother, which can be exhausting—especially for nursing moms. The father-led approach shifts the nighttime responsibilities to the other parent, allowing for a more gradual, supportive transition. Wes takes the lead in helping their babies night-wean and establish better sleep habits, and in this episode, he shares what has worked (and what hasn’t) through their personal experiences.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

• When to Start Sleep Training – Signs that indicate your baby may (or may not) be ready for night weaning and sleep training.

• The Transition Period – Understanding the inevitable tough nights and how to push through them with patience and consistency.

• Wes’s Role in Sleep Training – What he does during the night-waking process, his techniques for soothing, and how he supports the baby (and Morgan) during the transition.

• Managing Milk Supply – How Morgan handles the changes in nursing demand and maintains her milk supply while transitioning away from nighttime feeds.

• Lessons Learned from Four Kids – Insights gained through trial and error, including what they would do differently with each child.

How to Implement Father-Led Sleep Training

If you’re considering this approach for your own family, here are a few steps to get started:

1. Prepare for the Transition – Ensure both parents are on board and committed to consistency. Identify any external factors (teething, illness, major life changes) that might affect your baby’s ability to adjust.
2. Set the Stage for Success – Create a soothing bedtime routine that helps your baby feel secure and ready for sleep.
3. Let the Partner Take Over – The non-nursing parent (in this case, Wes) steps in to comfort and settle the baby instead of nursing, allowing for a gradual adjustment.
4. Be Patient and Persistent – Expect some rough nights and emotional moments. Babies are learning a new skill, and consistency is key.
5. Adjust as Needed – Every baby is different, so tuning into your child’s unique needs will help make the process smoother.

Final Thoughts

This episode is a must-listen for parents looking for a loving, alternative approach to sleep training that doesn’t involve excessive crying or abrupt changes. Wes and Morgan’s method is realistic, flexible, and designed to support the entire family’s well-being.

Resources From This Episode:

• The Wonder Weeks App
• Healthy As A Mother Episode #63: Role Changes and Expectations within Fatherhood with Wes MacDermott
• Healthy As A Mother Episode #92: Homebirth & Postpartum For Partners with Wes MacDermott

Stay Connected With Us:

• Healthy As A Mother: www.healthyasamother.com
• Instagram: @healthyasamotherpodcast
• Dr. Leah: www.womanhoodwellness.com
• Instagram: @drleahgordon
• Dr. Morgan: www.milkmedicine.com
• Instagram: @morganmacdermott

This episode is sponsored by:

Redmond Salt >> Click here and use code HEALTHYMOTHER to save 15% on your order.

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