Co-Sleeping? Not for Me!

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Let’s be real here: co-sleeping isn’t really my thing. Don’t get me wrong—I’ve done it. I shared my bed with both of my kids for the first few months of their lives. It was super convenient for breastfeeding; I could just roll over and feed them without ever having to leave my cozy spot or put on pants. I could half-sleep while they nursed, feeling pretty zen with my little one snuggled up next to me. But as soon as I was free from the breastfeeding demands, I was ready to reclaim my bed.

We transitioned our kids to their own cribs in their own rooms, and honestly, it was a breeze. Almost immediately, everyone started sleeping better. Now that our toddler, Emily, is three, she has her own queen-sized bed. My partner, Jake, and I still cuddle with her, read bedtime stories, and comfort her after scary dreams—but only until she’s asleep. Then we sneak back to our own space.

Here’s why I just can’t handle co-sleeping anymore:

Space. As a work-at-home mom, I’m surrounded by my kids all day long. If they’re not clinging to me with their sticky hands, they’re somehow trying to wipe their gooeyness on my clothes. Sometimes, I just need a moment to lie down without anyone touching me. A little sanctuary where I can think straight and not worry about any potential diaper disasters.

Safety. If you’re co-sleeping safely, that’s great. But once babies grow out of that cuddly burrito phase, they turn into tiny ninjas. One minute they’re peacefully sleeping, and the next, you’re waking up because they’ve rolled onto your face. Good luck making it through the night without a few battle scars.

Romance. During those three months of co-sleeping, I was in recovery mode, so intimacy wasn’t really on the agenda. I’ve heard parents find “creative” ways to reconnect while co-sleeping, but honestly, where does that happen? Not in our cramped pantry, that’s for sure! The only time we have to ourselves is when the kids are sound asleep in their beds.

My Safe Haven. With everything in my life shared with my kids, my bed is the one space that’s just mine. I don’t feel guilty about it at all. It’s where I love to read, write, and just enjoy a bit of silence. When I want to watch TV or listen to music, I get to pick what I want—no cartoons or annoying kids’ songs allowed.

Quality Sleep. I don’t get a lot of sleep, so the little I do need to count. Constant interruptions from little feet or tiny fists poking me certainly don’t help. I want to wake up rested, not battling tiny warriors in my sleep.

Let me be clear: I respect every family’s choices regarding sleeping arrangements. But if you’re thinking about co-sleeping, maybe consider getting your kiddo a bigger bed. Sharing your bed comes with some serious sacrifices, and who needs that kind of craziness?

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In summary, while co-sleeping might work for some, it’s not for everyone. Whether it’s for space, safety, or just the need for a personal sanctuary, reclaiming your bed can be a game changer.