Co-Sleeping with Sterling-The Benefits and Challenges
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Co-sleeping is a practice that has been both embraced and debated by parents worldwide. For our family, co-sleeping with Sterling, our energetic toddler, has been a journey filled with precious moments and unique challenges. In this post, we'll explore the benefits and potential downsides of co-sleeping, offering insights from our own experiences and expert advice from a special guest.
The Benefits of Co-Sleeping
Bonding and Security Co-sleeping has significantly strengthened the bond between Sterling and us. The close physical proximity at night fosters a sense of security and comfort for him, helping him feel safe and loved.
Convenience for Nighttime Feeding When Sterling was still nursing, as a working mom, the convenience of nighttime feeding was invaluable. Co-sleeping allowed for easier breastfeeding, reducing the need to fully wake up and minimizing sleep disruption for both Sterling and me.
Improved Sleep for the Family Contrary to popular belief, co-sleeping can improve sleep quality. Sterling tends to sleep more soundly when he knows we are nearby, and in turn, we get more restful sleep without the frequent nighttime awakenings and cries.
Emotional Regulation Being close to Sterling at night helps him regulate his emotions better. The immediate comfort and reassurance help soothe nighttime anxieties, leading to more peaceful nights for everyone.
The Challenges of Co-Sleeping
Sleep Disruptions While co-sleeping has its benefits, it also comes with its fair share of disruptions. Sterling's movements and occasional restlessness can sometimes interrupt our sleep, making it difficult to get a full night's rest.
Space Constraints Sharing a bed with a toddler can be a tight squeeze. Ensuring everyone has enough space to sleep comfortably requires some adjustments and compromises.
Transitioning to Independent Sleep One of the long-term challenges is transitioning Sterling to sleep independently. Establishing a separate sleep routine can be difficult once a child is accustomed to co-sleeping.
Expert Insights from A Social Worker- Carie MP
To provide a well-rounded perspective on co-sleeping, we spoke with Carie MP, a social worker, and what some may call an expert of helping mamas like you and I declutter and bring organization to our lives. Here's what she had to say:
Q: First, please tell us a little bit about yourself?
Carie: I'm a wife, mama and a social worker. I love helping others and enjoy providing tips and tidbits to others who may need a nonjudgement perspective. As a social worker, I have worked in many settings but working with the younger children is my absolute passion. As a mother myself, and a social worker I pride myself on helping others, including the babies of our world with learning how to regulate their emotions, be resilient and continue to thrive when the world gets crazier and crazier.
Q: What are the key factors parents should consider when deciding whether to co-sleep with their toddler?
Carie: Co-sleeping with your child has both pros and cons but most importantly- safety is the biggest of all the factors to consider. Speaking in regards to the safety of the children when co-sleeping in the parents bed it is very concerning and increases a risk of SIDS. Establishing a structured bedtime routine for your child, especially when they become a toddler helps everyone in your home. When establishing a routine it allows the parents quality time with their little loves and then also provides parents time alone to decompress from the day. From the very beginning, right home from the hospital, placing your child in their identified space allows the Mother to have their time and consistency from an early age. Co-sleeping is convenient and yes the baby snuggles are amazing, but so is your autonomy, your mental health, and your quality of life. Co-sleeping can lower good quality sleep for both parents and children causing a lack of restful sleep nightly and overtime cause a decline in functionality.
Q: How can parents transition their child from co-sleeping to independent sleep?
Carie: Establishing a structured bedtime routine is a huge factor that will help with this transition (i.e. for example -dinner, bath time, books and snuggles and then they sleep in their bed). Consistency is key Mama! You have to stick with it. Utilizing a chart and a visual will help the children learn their routine and for example how many nights they stick with it. Make it fun. Use fun verbiage 'big girl bed', 'big boy bed,' or 'oh that's mommy's bed'. Like any transition you work on with your toddler, it might not work right away and you will be emotional and so will your little love. But STICK WITH IT Mama! You could also keep their bedroom door open and leave a light on in the hallway, whatever makes it easier for them until it's just their new normal.
Final Thoughts
Co-sleeping with Sterling has been a deeply personal and rewarding experience for our family. While it comes with its challenges, the benefits of closeness and security have made it worthwhile. By following expert advice and creating a safe sleep environment, parents can make the most of co-sleeping while preparing for a smooth transition to independent sleep. I am however going to start transitioning Sterling to his own bed, due to his safety.
For more tips on parenting and navigating the toddler years, explore our blog and join our community of supportive parents. Share your co-sleeping experiences and tips in the comments below!
