There is no one right way to parent, but there is a right way for you - and we'll help you find it, just as we have for thousands of parents over the last 20+ years.

Our Story

We co-founded Sleepy Planet Parenting in 1999 with the mission to support families from “360 degrees” - providing guidance in parenting groups, for children’s sleep, and in private sessions. Over the last two-plus decades, we’ve been incredibly proud to watch Sleepy Planet Parenting bloom into an internationally recognized resource, helping moms and dads everywhere to navigate parenthood with more confidence, authenticity and joy. We’ve come a long way since we met as college roommates!

As creators of the field of private consults for behavioral pediatric sleep, coauthors of the award-winning book The Sleepeasy Solution, and esteemed parenting experts, we’ve been featured in a wide variety of media, including Good Morning America, the Today show, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, People, and Parents. We were also consultants for the hit TV show "The Pajanimals," a joint production with the Jim Henson Company and PBS Sprout, as well as for a series based on the beloved children’s book The Kissing Hand.

Jill Spivack

Co-Founder, LCSW
Parent Group Leader, Sleep Consultant, Parent Educator

I’m a mom of two children and a licensed clinical social worker who developed an expertise in parenting while working as a psychotherapist at Cedars-Sinai Early Childhood Department.  I combine my training and experience with an authentic, relatable and supportive style to provide valued guidance from the early stages of parenthood through the high school years.  I’ve developed a holistic approach from a diverse host of disciplines and my mission is to support moms and dads in navigating parenthood with consciousness and clarity while also remaining focused on their own well-being.  

Jennifer Waldburger

Co-Founder, MSW
Parent Group Leader, Sleep Consultant, Parent Educator


I earned my master's degree in Social Work at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where I also contributed to research with the Mayo Clinic. My work with parents and children integrates both my background in psychotherapy and my postgraduate trainings in mindfulness, neuroscience, trauma healing, self-regulation and holistic wellness practices. Coauthor of Calm Mama, Happy Baby and co-creator of Mindfulness and wellness programs at several schools, my greatest passion is helping adults and kids to cultivate authentic connection with themselves first – and then others.

Halie Lieberman

Parent Group Leader, M.Ed


I earned my master’s degree at Bank Street Graduate School of Education in Infant & Family Development and Early Childhood Education. Having worked as a teacher at schools including Cassidy Preschool and The Portable Classroom, my approach incorporates both my background in child development and my love of teaching, as well as my passion for wholeheartedly supporting families of young children during this significant and momentous time in their lives. I am a native to Los Angeles, where I live with my husband and young son, a graduate himself of Sleepy Planet Parenting groups!  

Diane Farkas

Sleep Consultant and Potty Consultant, RN


After earning my undergraduate degree in Sociology at UC Santa Cruz, I worked as an RN in a Level III NICU for over 25 years. I am a certified sleep and potty coach, and also a certified breastfeeding counselor. I love helping families sort through their natural confusion and questions about how to help their child sleep well, and guiding them with a plan customized to their parenting philosophy, lifestyle and child’s developmental stage so the whole family can get the rest they need.  I had the great pleasure and honor of sleep coaching both of my granddaughters, helping them become amazing sleepers.

Bahar Khakshouri

Parent Group Leader, MA, OTD, OTR/L


I earned my master’s and doctoral degrees in Occupational Therapy at the University of Southern California and have worked with children in a variety of pediatric settings. With an emphasis on sensory play, I have helped children and families navigate all aspects of physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development throughout the span of childhood. My passion for supporting parents has only grown since I experienced the community and support that Sleepy Planet offered me in my new chapter of motherhood as a group member. I enjoy filling my own cup by spending time outdoors in nature with my family.

Hattie Sher

Group Coordinator


I received my BA in Economics, graduating with honors, and also have a performance background in dance and theater. I love bringing my knack for helping individuals and businesses stay organized to Sleepy Planet, and I also have my own bookkeeping business. I have yet to experience raising a human child, but I recently adopted a shelter pup and am happy to report that the puppy is a great sleeper and sleeps soundly through the night.

  • "When expecting and new moms ask me for parenting advice, the first thing I tell them is to sign up for Sleepy Planet Parenting mom group. All you need to know, and beyond, is taught to you in a gentle, caring way with zero judgement. From sleep training to self-care, this master class has you covered."

    Jenna Paris

  • “Sleepy Planet gave us the skills, reassurance and convidence we needed to make the dream of sleep a fast reality. This approach was truly amazing in helping our family thrive and we are eternally grateful.”

    Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor, Actors

  • "When Sleepy Planet helped me see it at it as sleep learning instead of sleep training, all my defenses came down. I was like, Oh yeah, my kid actually needs this. And sure enough, within three days he took to it. These methods are absolutely incredible."

    Ashley Graham

  • "I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed our session. I think the baby is wondering where did my overwhelmed and tired mommy go and who is this woman dancing with me today!"

    Mandy Friedman