Karola Marais

12/09/2025

09/09/2025

09/09/2025

Proud Sponsor

Sleep Training Basics Welcomes You to Namibia’s Next Top Baby!

We are excited to announce Sleep Training Basics by The Sleep Co. as one of the proud sponsors of Namibia’s Next Top Baby Photo Competition.

Behind this initiative is Karola Marais, a passionate Sleep Consultant dedicated to helping Namibian families reclaim peaceful nights and joyful mornings. Born in Pretoria and raised in Windhoek, Karola is a proud mother of two daughters who inspire her work daily.

Currently pursuing further studies in Baby-Led Sleeping, Karola believes every child deserves restful sleep — and every parent deserves compassionate guidance. Her own family’s bedtime traditions of stories, lullabies, and snuggles fuel her mission to help parents create the same calming, precious moments at home.

Karola understands the challenges of sleepless nights and offers practical, supportive solutions to establish healthy sleep habits for your little ones. Her heartfelt message to families:
“Sleep isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity for health, happiness, and connection.”

📞 +264 85 294 2911
✉ karola@thesleepco.co.za

🌐 www.thesleepco.co.za

🕘 Monday – Friday | 09:00 – 16:30
📍 Namibia

Thank you, Sleep Training Basics, for supporting Namibia’s Next Top Baby and for bringing the gift of rest and peace to so many families.

08/09/2025

Lessons from Amika’s Wound Care Journey: What We Learned as Parents

Our family’s journey with Amika over the past weeks has been challenging, yet deeply instructive. What began as a routine concern quickly grew into a complex medical journey that required patience, courage, and a team of dedicated professionals. Amika spent ten days in the PICU undergoing multiple rounds of wound care, and the experience taught us more than we could have imagined about healing, communication, and resilience. As we share these reflections, our hope is to offer practical insights for other parents who may find themselves navigating a similar path.

One of the most important realizations for us was the central role of clear communication with the care team. From the first days in PICU to the moments when decisions about debridement and wound closure were made, we learned to ask questions, seek plain-language explanations, and request written summaries after major rounds of care. Understanding the goals of the treatment plan—what the clinicians hoped to achieve, what the risks were, and what signs would prompt urgent action—helped us feel more involved and less overwhelmed. We found that a short list of targeted questions can make a big difference: What is the goal of the current wound care plan? What are the expected signs of improvement or complication? When should we contact the team, and what is the best way to reach you after hours? This intentional communication not only clarified expectations but also strengthened our collaboration with the medical team.

From a practical standpoint, wound care is both a science and an art. The care we witnessed emphasized meticulous cleanliness, appropriate dressings, and vigilant monitoring for infection. In Amika’s case, there were moments when a small area that wasn’t healing as hoped was carefully debrided to promote better overall healing. Debridement can be unsettling to witness, but when guided by experienced professionals, it often contributes to a more favorable outcome. After such procedures, understanding the post-care plan—how to care for the wound at home, what activities are permissible, and what restrictions are temporary—became essential. We learned to follow medical instructions precisely, avoid unapproved remedies, and keep a close eye on any changes in the wound’s appearance.

The emotional and spiritual dimensions of this journey deserve equal attention. Being in the hospital, watching a child endure procedures, and waiting for test results can strain even the most resilient families. For many, faith and prayer offer a steadying source of hope. We found comfort in leaning on our beliefs, the support of friends and family, and the compassionate care of the nurses and doctors who surrounded Amika. It reminded us that healing is not just physical but also emotional and spiritual, and that communities of care—whether they come from faith, friendship, or professional networks—are invaluable.

Homecoming marks a new chapter in Amika’s recovery. Discharge from the hospital is a milestone, but it is not the end of the journey. At home, monitoring continues: daily wound checks, watching for signs of infection, managing medications and dressings, and maintaining a routine that supports healing. It is important for parents to keep a simple daily log of the wound’s appearance, temperature, appetite, energy, and mood. Small red flags—such as increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or fever—should prompt contact with the medical team. Regular follow-up appointments with surgeons or wound care specialists are essential to ensure the wound is healing properly and to address any concerns about scarring and activity restrictions.

As parents, we want to share practical tips that may help others in similar situations. First, establish open lines of communication with the care team. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarifications or a written summary after major updates. Second, educate yourself about basic wound care principles, but rely on your child’s clinicians for medical specifics. Simple acts like keeping the area clean and dry, following dressing instructions, and recognizing warning signs can make a meaningful difference. Third, cultivate an at-home monitoring routine that works for your family—whether through a daily log, a checklist, or a photo record of the wound. Finally, acknowledge the emotional and spiritual aspects of the journey. Seek support from faith communities, family, and friends, and allow yourselves moments of rest and reflection amidst the intense schedule of medical care.

Our reflections also underscore the power of community. The outpouring of prayers, messages, and practical help lifted our spirits when fear and fatigue threatened to overwhelm us. We are profoundly grateful for the clinicians who cared for Amika, for the nurses whose steady hands and compassionate words offered comfort, and for every friend and family member who stood with us through this season. Their kindness reminded us that healing is a shared effort—one that requires expertise, faith, patience, and a generous spirit.

If you are a parent walking a path similar to ours, you are not alone. Trust your instincts, ask questions, and lean on your support networks. While each child’s medical journey is unique, the themes of clear communication, careful wound care, consistent monitoring, and emotional and spiritual support are universal. We hope that sharing Amika’s story—warts and all—gives you practical ideas, reassurance, and hope as you navigate your own family’s healing journey.

04/09/2025

04/09/2025

Today’s tip is all about Amber Teething Jewelry.

❌ Amber teething necklaces and bracelets may be marketed as natural remedies for teething pain, but they are not safe AND they don’t work.

⚠️ The risks are serious:
• Beads can break off and pose a choking hazard.
• Strangulation can occur if a necklace catches during sleep or play.
• There is no scientific evidence amber provides any pain relief — Succinic acid (the compound claimed to help) has no analgesic effect, and would only be released if amber were heated to ~370°F.

👉 The AAP and FDA both strongly warn against amber teething jewelry.

✅ Safer ways to help soothe teething pain include:
• Gently massaging baby’s gums.
• Offering firm rubber teething rings (not frozen) from reputable sellers.
• Asking your pediatrician about pain relief options when needed.

There is absolutely no safe or effective reason for a baby to wear amber teething jewelry. Stick to methods proven to soothe while keeping little ones safe.

AAP: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/teething-tooth-care/Pages/Amber-Teething-Necklaces.aspx
FDA: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/safely-soothing-teething-pain-infants-and-children

03/09/2025

02/09/2025

The Sleep Bond: Co-Sleeping Between Siblings — A Warm, Professional Guide to Trusting Your Gut

In our family, two sisters have chosen to share a bed. When done thoughtfully, bed-sharing can reinforce emotional bonds, provide comfort, and support a calm, predictable bedtime routine. As a professional sleep consultant, I honor the parental instinct you bring to the table: trust your gut, and let sleep science guide your decisions. This post is written with warmth and clarity to help you feel confident about co-sleeping when it works for your family—and know what to watch for if it doesn’t.

Bed-sharing between siblings can be a beautiful expression of trust, closeness, and daily companionship. If the arrangement supports restful nights for everyone, it can be a practical, low-stress solution for busy families. The core of success lies in safety, routine, and periodic reassessment, all while honoring your parental intuition about what feels right for your children.

Why co-sleeping with siblings can work

Emotional security and bonding: Proximity often strengthens sisterly connection, creating a sense of safety at night.
Consistent bedtime routines: A shared routine can simplify evenings and help children wind down together.
Parental peace of mind: When everyone sleeps well, parents feel more rested and capable for the day ahead.

Sleep quality matters as much as togetherness. If both children wake rested and alert, the arrangement is working. If sleep quality declines, consider adjustments.

Safety first, no compromises. A safe sleep environment minimizes risks and supports comfortable sharing.
Be flexible and growth-aware. Children change over time; what works at one stage may need tweaking later.

Gentle and affirming
Bed-sharing between siblings can be a warm expression of the close bond they share. When both children sleep peacefully with minimal disruption, this arrangement can reinforce a sense of safety and connection. As a sleep consultant, I encourage families to weigh the emotional benefits against the importance of sleep quality. If sleep remains restful and both children wake energized, this setup can continue. If disruptions arise, gentle adjustments—such as a defined shared space or occasional nights in separate beds—can restore balance while preserving the bond.

Safety-focused and practical
Safety and routine are the backbone of successful bed-sharing. For families choosing to have siblings share a bed, ensure the sleep surface is stable and hazard-free, appropriate for the ages involved, and large enough to accommodate both children without creating dangerous gaps. Maintain a consistent bedtime routine, monitor for signs of overtiredness, and be prepared to adapt if one child needs a bit more space to settle. The goal is to support bonding while preserving everyone’s sleep health.

Growth, independence, and balance
Many families begin with sibling bed-sharing as a way to comfort at night and build connection. It’s equally important to nurture independence as children grow. Periodic reassessment helps: if both children sleep well together, the arrangement can continue; if sleep quality dips, consider a gradual transition to a shared routine with separate beds or a rotating system—preserving the closeness while protecting sleep quality.

FAQs

Is bed-sharing between siblings unsafe?
For older children, bed-sharing is generally safe when the environment is hazard-free and sleep routines are stable. Tailor decisions to your family’s needs and consult a pediatric sleep professional if concerns arise.

How can I transition if sleep quality declines?
Try a gradual separation plan: add a clearly defined sleeping area within the same room, introduce separate beds, or implement a rotating schedule where sleep space changes by night.

How do I balance bonding with independence?
Celebrate closeness and comfort, while ensuring each child has opportunities for independent sleep routines appropriate to their age and temperament. Regular reassessment supports both.

01/09/2025

First Night in Spring: A Sleep Consultant’s Reflections on Routine, Reading, and Quality Time

Today marks the first night of spring. The day folded into a quiet evening after the girls decided it was Dad’s turn to read. Lunch boxes are packed away, and the house feels hushed and peaceful. Three little ones are fast asleep on the bed, a gentle reminder of how moments of calm follow moments of activity. As a professional sleep consultant, I’m reminded that the way we end the day matters as much as how we begin it

Embracing Spring: A Gentle Reset for Sleep

Spring offers a natural invitation to adjust routines without sacrificing the joy and energy of the season. A few small shifts can support deeper, more restorative sleep for children.

Short, predictable routines: With longer daylight, it’s easy for kids to stay engaged longer. A concise wind-down helps cue the body for sleep.
Calmer environments: Dim lights, cooler room temperature, and softer sounds reduce stimulation and promote faster settling.
Seasonal cues: Gentle spring-themed visuals, nature-inspired stories, and a light, fresh room atmosphere can signal renewal and rest.

The Bedtime Routine: Predictable, Peaceful, and Personal

A reliable routine is the backbone of healthy sleep. It creates security, reduces bedtime resistance, and helps children form positive associations with rest.

Key elements to include:
Consistent cadence: After dinner, a warm bath or shower, comfortable pajamas, a quick tidy-up, then the reading ritual.
Sensory cues: Soft lighting, a favorite blanket or stuffed friend, and a soothing musical or ambient sound option.
Smooth transitions: Avoid new or highly stimulating activities close to bedtime. Aim for a 20–30 minute routine that quiets the body and calms the mind.
Physical closeness: A gentle hug, a caregiver’s steady presence by the bed, and a brief cuddle before lights out reinforce safety and security.

Practical tips for families:
Use a simple visual routine chart or cue cards for younger children. A picture-based sequence helps with independence and consistency.
Keep bath times soothing: lukewarm water, gentle massage, and a calm atmosphere prepare the body for sleep.
Reserve weekend variations: It’s okay to have a slightly longer wind-down or special bedtime on weekends, as long as the core structure remains intact on school nights.

Reading as a Sleep Bridge: Choosing Calming Books and Techniques

Reading is more than literacy; it’s a bridge to sleep, a chance to unwind, and a moment for bonding.

Guidelines for effective bedtime reading:
Choose soothing stories: Favor gentle adventures, nature themes, and narratives that conclude with calm imagery rather than action-heavy climaxes.
Read with warmth and measured pace: Expression matters, but the energy should gradually soften toward the end to support sleep readiness.
Incorporate gentle questions: Invite imagination without increasing arousal. Examples: “What color is the night sky to you?” or “Which animal friend would like to sleep beside us?”
End with a brief post-reading ritual: A quiet stretch, a whispered gratitude, and a simple “sweet dreams” can be the perfect close.

A note on choice: Allow kids to select a book from a curated, calming shelf. Rotating a small, comforting collection keeps engagement while preserving routine.

Quality Time: The Gift of Presence

Quality time is not about duration alone; it’s about intention, presence, and connection.

The bedtime moment is a priceless opportunity to listen, validate feelings, and share a moment of secure attachment.
Your tone, pacing, and presence model healthy sleep habits. Slow your breathing, soften your voice, and relax your posture to convey calm.
Even a single meaningful exchange can create lasting memories. The scene of three children drifting toward sleep is a daily miracle—a testament to the power of consistent routines and caring presence.

Celebrate these moments. They are the foundation of resilient, well-rested children.

Practical, Practitioner-Focused Tips

Personalize routines: Each child has unique needs. Some benefit from a slightly longer wind-down; others thrive with a tighter, more predictable pattern. Maintain a flexible framework, but stay consistent within it.
Maintain a predictable sequence: Bath, pajamas, book, cuddle, lights out. Small deviations are fine, but the structure should feel familiar.
Optimize the sleep environment: A cool, dark, quiet room with comfortable bedding supports deeper, more restorative sleep.
Track seasonal patterns: Use a simple sleep log to observe how spring’s longer days affect energy, bedtime resistance, and overnight awakenings, then adjust accordingly.
Build a calming reading library: Curate a rotating catalog of nature-themed, soothing picture books and short reads that preserve restful cues while keeping everyday interest.

Suggested Calming Bedtime Reading List

Picture books with nature themes and gentle plots
Short, lyrical stories ending with a comforting image
Non-stimulating bedtime tales that avoid high-action climaxes

Spring provides a natural invitation to slow down, deepen connections, and reinforce routines that support restful nights. The quiet tonight—three little ones asleep on the bed—reminds us why bedtime is more than a routine; it’s the gift of secure, loving presence. As a sleep consultant, I encourage families to lean into this season with gentle structure, mindful reading, and quality time that nurtures both sleep and everyday joys.

28/08/2025

Gifted Minds stel bekend:
- NITA COETZEE -

Ons kampvegter van speel in Namibië verduidelik waaroor speel eintlik gaan. Hoekom het speel verdwyn, maar ook hoe om speel terug te bring.
Wat gebeur tydens ontwikkeling wanneer n peuter en kleuter genoeg tyd het om te speel, te d**k, te beplan, te beweeg? Nita verduidelik die invloed van "Die blou vragmotortjie".

Ons koppel Heidi aan hierdie onderwerp aangesien Heidi en Pieter heeldag vrylik in die berge kon beweeg. Geen aanhoudende instruksies, plastiese speelgoed met knoppies wat hul gevange kon hou. Arme Klara was kognitief gedruk tussen vier mure.

Saterdag, 13 September 2025
8am-3pm
NG Kerk Suiderhof, Windhoek
Onthou: los jou skoene tuis

Koop jou kaartjie @ N$650 vir dié Kaalvoet Werkswinkel vol pret en plesier, eg Afrikaanse happies, idiome en voortreflike sprekers oor die waarde van Speel.









Thea 081 347 5358
Nita 081 808 5944

28/08/2025

A Personal Note from a Sleep Consultant Who Is Also a Survivor

Three months ago, my body faced something no parent should have to endure. In a single moment, I went from a mother of three vibrant children to someone who suddenly needed emergency surgery to remove my uterus. The loss wasn’t just physical. I lost a future I had imagined—a future where I would cradle a newborn and watch my family grow. But even in that moment of grief, I found a new kind of strength.

I’m 34 years old. I am a woman, a mother, and a person who refuses to let a single setback define my entire life. Women are more than the sum of their organs. We are resilience, love, and countless roles—mothers to living children, partners, sisters, friends, and professionals who show up with care every day. My body is changed, but my motherhood is not erased.

The loss of a baby I carried at 16 weeks was a profound heartbreak, and I carry that memory with me every day. I also carry the three beautiful girls who are living and thriving in my life—my reason, my grounding, my joy. The pain of that loss sits with me, but so does the love and the laughter of the children who still fill our home with light.

Recovery has been a long, winding journey—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Three months post-emergency hysterectomy, I’m still learning to navigate the road ahead. The body’s healing is not linear. Hormones shift, energy ebbs and flows, and every day brings a new set of questions: Am I healing well? Will my emotional world settle? How do I redefine motherhood when the uterus that once connected me to giving life is no longer there?

To anyone walking a similar path, I want you to know this: your worth isn’t measured by your ability to carry a pregnancy. Your value, your motherhood, your love—these are defined by who you are, not by the organ you possess. I am still a mother to my three living children. I am still me.

Here are a few truths I’m holding onto, shared in the spirit of honesty for anyone who may be walking a parallel journey:

Grief can ride the waves for years. It doesn’t vanish; it evolves. It’s okay to cry, to pause, and to grieve the future you imagined.
Healing is multi-dimensional. Physically I’m healing from surgery, emotionally I’m healing from loss, and mentally I’m learning to reframe what motherhood means in this new chapter.
Support matters. Friends, family, therapists, and support groups make space for healing in ways we often can’t do alone. If you’re walking this path, please reach out for support—there is strength in asking for help.
Small steps, steady breaths. I’m focusing on small, manageable self-care—short walks, restful sleep, and meaningful moments with my kids and loved ones. Each small act matters and compounds into resilience.

To those who follow my journey as a sleep consultant, I want you to know this experience deepens the care I bring to others. Sleep is a foundation of healing—physically and emotionally. I will continue to share practical, compassionate guidance that helps families create restful rhythms, while also honoring the complexity of trauma and loss. If you’re navigating sleep challenges alongside grief, you’re not alone. We’ll work through it together—one gentle step at a time.

A few things I’m focusing on now, as I continue to heal and grow:

Listening to my body: honoring energy levels, pacing recovery, and seeking professional guidance when needed.
Emotional well-being: exploring therapy resources, connecting with supportive communities, and giving myself permission to grieve.
Family connection: creating rituals and routines that bring us closer, especially around bedtime when rest can feel like a sanctuary.
Purpose and direction: continuing to help families with sleep, drawing on my lived experience to bring empathy, patience, and practical strategies to every home I serve.

If you’re reading this and you’re facing a similar journey—whether you’ve had a hysterectomy, experienced pregnancy loss, or are navigating a life-changing medical event—know this: you are not alone. You are seen. Your pain is valid. And your capacity to heal, to love, and to nourish your family remains intact.

Thank you for allowing me to share this part of my life with you. If you’d like to connect, share your story, or ask about sleep strategies for your little ones (or for yourself during healing), I’m here. Let’s walk this path with gentleness, honesty, and a commitment to rest that restores us—body, mind, and heart.

With gratitude and care,
Karola Marais
Sleep Consultant