Ep. 25 The Power of Yes Spaces: Simplify Parenting, Improve Sleep

infant newborn play play windows preschool toddler wake windows

When parents think about helping their child sleep independently, they often focus on bedtime routines and sleep training. However, what we might overlook is the significant role that playtime and wake windows play in building the foundations for healthy sleep. In this episode, we dive into the concept of YES spaces—environments where children are free to explore and play safely on their own, without adult intervention. These spaces help foster independence, self-regulation, and ultimately, better sleep.

One of the key elements of YES spaces is that they allow children to practice being on their own during the day, which directly translates to feeling comfortable when it’s time to sleep alone. Play is often considered "work" for children, a vital part of their development where they learn problem-solving, patience, and self-discipline. By creating intentional YES spaces during wake windows, parents can provide their children with opportunities to build these crucial skills. I love what Magda Gerber says, Observe more, do less. Do less, enjoy more.

As you'll hear in the podcast episode, Janet Lansbury coined the term "YES space," and it's been an invaluable tool for me in my parenting journey. While I had heard about the concept of self-directed play, I wasn’t sure how to actually make it happen.

This was a learning process for me!

I remember feeling so inspired after watching a clip of a 4-month-old playing with a simple bowl in his YES space. That moment truly encouraged me to explore the idea further. I'm incredibly grateful for discovering YES spaces and for being able to implement them in a way that worked for both my children and our family dynamic.

Infant Playing To Be Smart (RIE Baby) from Janet Lansbury on Vimeo.

In the Healthy Sleep Foundations course, I dedicate an entire module to playtime essentials. This may surprise some parents, but play is intricately connected to sleep. When children have structured opportunities for independent play during their wake windows, they are better able to transition into sleep windows with less resistance and more ease. Play windows, especially when nurtured in YES spaces, offer children the chance to release energy, explore their creativity, and build the emotional resilience they need to settle into sleep comfortably.

The beauty of YES spaces is that they not only improve sleep but also simplify parenting. Instead of feeling the constant need to entertain their children, parents can step back and allow learning to unfold naturally. This approach helps build trust and respect in the parent-child relationship, reinforcing the child’s sense of security. Whether your child is a newborn, toddler, or preschooler, YES spaces are an effective way to promote better sleep and a more peaceful home environment.

Key Loving Lessons Learned in this episode:

🟣 Understanding how YES spaces promote independent play and better sleep.

🟣 Why playtime during wake windows is critical for sleep success.

🟣 The role of YES spaces in simplifying parenting and reducing stress.

🟣 How YES spaces help children develop emotional regulation and self-discipline.

🟣 Practical steps to create safe, enclosed YES spaces at home.

Resources mentioned to help you keep learning & growing:

⭐ Sleep Coaching Success - Group Coaching Sleep Support Group

⭐ RIE Parenting Principles: Resources for Infant Educarers

YES spaces are a crucial element in helping children sleep better. By creating enclosed, safe environments where children can engage in independent play during wake windows, we’re allowing them to practice being alone in a secure way.

This practice carries over into bedtime, making the transition to sleeping alone much smoother. The skills they develop during these playtimes—like patience, self-control, and emotional regulation—are the same ones that help them settle into sleep more comfortably. I hope you’ll take inspired action as you take what you learn and make it your own to simplify parenting in your home! Share your YES Space images with me!