Welcome to The Boston Doula’s Notebook
Parenthood is beautiful, messy, and full of transitions—especially in those early weeks and months. Here on The Doula’s Notebook, we share trusted, evidence-based insights to help Boston families feel more confident and supported as they navigate life with a newborn.
As a certified postpartum doula, newborn care specialist, and sleep consultant, I’ve spent years guiding parents in the Greater Boston area through the joys and challenges of the fourth trimester and beyond. Whether you’re preparing for your first baby, adjusting to life with twins, or balancing a toddler with a newborn, this blog is designed to meet you right where you are.
Topics you’ll find here include:
Gentle newborn sleep strategies, from naps to nighttime routines
Feeding support, whether breastfeeding, formula, or a combination
Recovery tips and emotional care for new mothers
Guidance on building healthy family rhythms and household balance
Our mission is simple: to give you the tools, reassurance, and expert knowledge you need to thrive in parenthood—not just survive it.
Each article is crafted with busy parents in mind—clear, compassionate, and easy to put into practice. Some posts give you a quick tip you can use tonight, while others invite you to dive deeper with one of our downloadable guides or personalized services through Blissful Sleep Doulas.
So pour yourself a coffee, settle in, and explore. Your journey into parenthood deserves support, and we’re here to make sure you never walk it alone.
The Ultimate Newborn Sleep Survival Guide
Newborn sleep doesn’t have to feel like a mystery. In this guide, Boston postpartum doula Marsha Montgomery from Blissful Sleep Doulas shares 5 gentle, proven strategies to help your baby (and you!) get more rest—from wake windows to swaddling tips, womb-like sleep setups, and realistic expectations for those first weeks at home.
Yes, You’re Still the Boss: Smart Ways to Negotiate With Your 2-Year-Old
Life with a 2-year-old is full of “No!” moments and power struggles. The key isn’t giving in—it’s learning how to guide your toddler’s independence without losing your authority. Discover 5 gentle strategies that turn daily battles into cooperation while keeping you the calm, confident leader your child needs.
Understanding the 12-Week Nap Shift: Why Your Baby's Daytime Sleep Suddenly Changed
At 12 weeks, many babies shift into mature 40–50 minute sleep cycles, leading to short daytime naps while night sleep stays strong. This guide explains why your 3-month-old wakes at 43 minutes and provides a step-by-step nap extension plan, wake window adjustments, a sample daily schedule, and soothing strategies to help lengthen naps over time.
How to Handle Daylight Savings Time with Babies and Toddlers
Daylight Savings Time can throw off even the best baby and toddler sleep routines. In this blog, Boston postpartum doula Marsha Montgomery shares quick tips to ease the transition. For detailed strategies, nap schedules, and troubleshooting, grab the full $25 digital guide trusted by local families.
Gentle Ways to Shift Your 4-Month-Old's Routine and Improve Sleep
By 4 months, babies are more alert—and often more opinionated about sleep. Short naps, hourly waking, or rocking to sleep can leave parents exhausted. With the right approach, you can gently shift routines and create healthier sleep habits for your baby (and your family). Discover 5 expert-backed tips—plus 3 common pitfalls to avoid—so you can enjoy calmer nights and smoother days.