 The topic of co-sleeping is one of the most controversial topics people encounter when they become new parents.
In the time I’ve worked with families over the last eight years, I’ve found families fall into 1 of 2 categories:
If you’re considering cosleeping or bedsharing with your toddler or child, the first thing I want you to ask yourself is why. What has led you to this decision? Are you and your child having difficulty sleeping at night? Are there cultural reasons? Is it something you enjoy doing to feel close to one another? What does your gut tell you? Note: Sleep Solutions by Christine advocates for safe sleep practices and we follow the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for safe sleep. Babies and toddlers should have their own sleep space such as a crib, portable crib or bassinet. Some people state that their reason for cosleeping with their child is because it allows them to feel close to their child. If you fall into this camp, you (and your partner/spouse) enjoy cosleeping and everyone is getting plenty of sleep, then rock on! Keep it up! However, if you fall somewhere in the “I don’t enjoy this” camp, it may be time to reconsider cosleeping and make some changes. “‘Cause I love getting kicked in the ribs all night!” –said no parent ever. Cosleeping with your toddler won’t make them sleep all night long. In fact, it may make you and your child’s sleep WORSE! Cosleeping essentially turns you into a giant lovey for your child. You become their prop in their sleepy-time routine and a habit forms that doesn’t allow your child to sleep without you. How exhausting for you! In order to break out of this routine, you need to look at the original root of the problem. What is preventing your child from sleeping in their own space? How can you reassure them that you are near without needing to be right next to them? Is there a way you can create boundaries to be able to meet both your child and your own sleep needs? Co-sleeping can be an amazing way to bond with your little one. But if it’s anything less than bliss for you, breaking out of the cycle can be a challenge. If you’d like some help strategizing how to create beneficial sleep habits in your own home, set up a sleep support call with me today! |
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