In this episode, we sit down with infant sleep educator and Nurture Neuroscience Circle facilitator, Linda Fitzgerald, to explore how nurturing parenting practices shape emotional and mental health starting in infancy. Linda shares her personal story of moving to the U.S. during the pandemic, her journey into neuroscience-based parenting, and why “normal” infant sleep is so often misunderstood. We also dive into research on co-regulation, bedsharing, and the powerful impact of responsive care on long-term well-being.What You’ll Learn: • What biologically normal infant sleep really looks like • Why emotional attunement and co-regulation matter • The 7 “Safe Sleep” steps vs. sleep training myths • How nurturing parenting supports long-term mental health • Differences in parenting and healthcare between the U.S. and Czech Republic • The science behind responsive parenting and childhood resilienceLinda Fitzgerald is an infant and child sleep consultant who specializes in attachment-based, brain-informed approaches that honor the parent-infant bond. Originally from the Czech Republic, she blends European and American perspectives in her work. Linda has been mentored by Dr. Lyndsey Hookway and trained as a Nurture Neuroscience Practitioner by Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum. She facilitates the Nurture Neuroscience Circle for new mothers in Fairfax, CA, and offers 1:1 sleep consultations.Links and Resources Mentioned: • Nurture Neuroscience Circle – Fairfax Registration • Instagram: @nurture_neuroscience_circle • The Nurture Revolution – Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum • Sweet Sleep – La Leche League • Why Your Baby’s Sleep Matters – Sarah Ockwell-Smith • Evolutionary Parenting – Sleep Resources • KellyMom.comSafe Sleep Resources: • Safe Sleep 7 – La Leche League infographic • Cuddle Curl & Safe Chest Sleeping • Free Co-Sleeping Guide – CosleepyRecommended Book: • Nurture Revolution by Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum — A beautiful guide to infant brain development and the healing power of nurturing care.Instagram Accounts to Follow: • @drgreerkirshenbaum • @lyndsey_hookway • @cosleepy • @happycosleeper • @thebreastfeedingmentorResearch We Discussed: • Maternal Affection & Mental Health: Study linkHigher early maternal affection predicts lower adult anxiety and physical stress symptoms. • Maternal Sensitivity & Brain Development: Study linkLower maternal sensitivity linked to larger amygdala volume—associated with greater emotional reactivity. • REM Sleep & Memory Integration: Study linkREM sleep “replays” experiences, supporting memory consolidation and brain development during milestones.Share this episode with a new parent, birthworker, or anyone curious about infant brain development. Tag us with your favorite takeaway!Connect with Us:@sophiabirth@bayareahomebirth@bornwildmidwiferyStay Wild 🌳

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