valplowman

Valerie, also known as The Babywise Mom, is the mother to four children. She has been blogging on Babywise and general parenting since 2007. She has a degree in technical writing and loves using those skills to help parents be the best parents they can be! Read her book, The Babywise Mom Nap Guide, to get help on sleep from birth through the preschool years. You can also find her writing at Babywise.life, Today Parenting, and Her View From Home. Read more about Valerie and her family on the About page. Follow her on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for more tips and helps.

How Cooler Weather Affects Naps & Outdoor Playtime

August 13, 2026September 22, 2025 by valplowman

Father holding baby in the air outside in the fall

Discover how cooler fall weather impacts naps and outdoor play. Get tips for better baby sleep, fun autumn activities, and cozy routines for kids. As summer fades and the crisp …

What to Do When Your Toddler Cries at Nap Time

August 21, 2026September 18, 2025 by valplowman

Toddler crying in bed

When your toddler starts crying at nap time after being a good sleeper, it feels confusing and discouraging. Learn 10 common reasons—like timing, stimulation, teething, or routine changes—and what to …

Motherhood: Tips for Being a Great Mom

June 25, 2026September 15, 2025 by valplowman

Mom giving baby a kiss

Get the tips you need for being a great mom! Here you will find tips for pregnancy, postpartum, productivity, having a good attitude, and more! Get My Weekly Email! Each …

Parent Directed Feeding (Babywise PDF) Explained

September 11, 2025September 11, 2025 by valplowman

Mother holding new baby

Learn why the Babywise PDF (Parent Directed Feeding) philosophy is so empowering and enables parents to help babies sleep through the night young. Parent Directed Feeding (PDF) is the sweet …

How to Teach Kids Time Management for the School Year

October 1, 2025September 8, 2025 by valplowman

Girl with a backpack on and books on her head

Help your child succeed this school year with simple time management tips. Learn age-appropriate strategies, routines, and tools to teach kids responsibility, balance, and independence. The school year brings a …

The Complete Guide to Troubleshooting Short Baby Naps

September 3, 2025September 3, 2025 by valplowman

Baby yawning on a bed

Short naps can leave both you and your baby frustrated. If your little one wakes after just 30–45 minutes, don’t panic—there are common reasons and simple fixes. Use this troubleshooting …

Sample Babywise Schedules: 0-12 Months

September 2, 2025September 2, 2025 by valplowman

Mom and baby

Inside: Over 100 sample Babywise schedules for 0-12 month olds. Baby sleep schedules and routines to help your baby eat well, take great naps, and sleep through the night.