Cyngor Gwynedd podcast discusses the importance of healthy sleep for children

The latest episode in the series of Welsh language podcasts to help families on the journey through the key years of childhood has been released, with the importance of healthy sleep patterns being highlighted this time.

This is the fourth episode in the podcast series ‘Mam, Dad a Magu’ (Mum, Dad and Parenting) created by Cyngor Gwynedd which is available on YouTube, Apple and Spotify platforms. This time, actress and podcaster Mari Elen talks to Sleep Coach Rhian Mills and Musician Yws Gwynedd about their experiences.

The new episode explores the importance of healthy sleep for children of all ages, offering expert advice, parents' personal stories, and discussion of practical ways to foster positive sleeping habits.

Rhian and Yws share and discuss with Mari their personal experiences of raising children; the challenges they have experienced, and what has worked for them in coping with sleep patterns.

Mari said: "The biggest shock for me when I became a mum was the lack of sleep and how to deal with that. I'm so glad that I was able to be a part of this wonderful episode of ‘Mam, Dad a Magu’ and talk openly about normalising the mix of emotions you have during that initial period."

Yws Gwynedd added: "I've enjoyed being part of the conversation – it's reminded me to bear in mind that it's all about phases when raising children, and how important sleep is for children and parents!"

Officers from Cyngor Gwynedd's Children and Supporting Families Department were spurred on to create the podcast series ‘Mam, Dad a Magu’ having seen the need for a new way of talking to parents about common issues that can have an impact on children's natural development, and for it to be available through the medium of Welsh.

Councillor Menna Trenholme, Cyngor Gwynedd's Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said:

"Finding Welsh-language content online that addresses and discusses common issues when raising a family is very difficult. There is so much available through the medium of English, but it's very important that content to support families is also available through the medium of Welsh – especially in an area like Gwynedd where discussing in Welsh is completely natural.

"I'm very pleased that the response to the podcasts has been very positive so far, with hundreds listening in. I believe that the medium's success lies in the ability to deal with sensitive issues in a friendly, warm and light-hearted way.

"It's important to remember that each child develops and learns in their own way, and that they don't compete with other children to reach the milestones. I'm extremely pleased that the podcasts are available as an aid for families in Gwynedd to support their children along the way. 

"We know how busy life is for everyone raising children, so remember that it's possible to listen to or watch the previous editions of the podcasts at a time that suits you."

The ‘Mam, Dad a Magu’ podcast is suitable for anyone involved in bringing up children. It's available free on popular platforms such as YouTube, Spotify, Apple and Amazon: https://shor.by/Mam-Dad-a-Magu

The other episodes in the series relate to breastfeeding, mental health, and using the toilet.

Information and resources to help families are available from Cyngor Gwynedd – on the website www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/TeuluGwynedd or by contacting the Teulu Gwynedd team on 01286 678824.