At last, a parenting trend that aligns with the needs of moms and dads: kids sharing bedrooms! In the whirlwind of parenting, it often feels like the mantra is “more, more, more.” More toys, more space, more everything! Keeping up with the neighbors can be exhausting, making sure your kids have it all.
But here’s a refreshing twist: a growing trend towards downsizing. According to the Detroit Free-Press, nearly two-thirds of homes with two kids under 18 have them sharing a room – and this phenomenon seems to be on the rise! The U.S. Census Bureau reveals that while the average new home size ballooned by 550 square feet to 2,500 square feet from 1995 to 2014, 46% of these new homes boast four or more bedrooms. Yet, parents are opting to have their kids share spaces, likely to reclaim those extra rooms as personal havens or home offices.
This isn’t just a selfish choice, either. Linda Smarts, a certified gentle sleep coach, notes that having a roommate can actually lead to kids becoming better sleepers. As long as they can hush long enough to drift off, of course! “For older children who share a room, I guide parents in setting bedtime expectations. It’s essential to acknowledge that the time spent chatting before sleep is a unique bonding experience, and you need to allow for that interaction,” Smarts explains.
Reflecting on my own childhood, I enjoyed having my own room, but sharing with my siblings during special occasions—like Christmas Eve—felt like a mini sleepover! Sure, sharing space during the teenage years might not be ideal (let’s face it, teens can be a handful), but sometimes we need to roll with the punches.
Private space is undoubtedly important as kids grow, but there are plenty of creative ways to accommodate that without assigning every child their own sanctuary. Want to turn that spare room into a Dad Cave or a yoga studio? Go for it! Parents deserve their own sanity-saving spaces, and it doesn’t have to break the bank just to give kids a roof over their heads. After all, in our quest to provide everything for our kids, we often end up giving them more than they actually need.
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Summary:
The trend of kids sharing bedrooms is on the rise, with many parents opting to have their children share spaces to reclaim their own room for relaxation or work. This arrangement not only saves parents money but can also promote better sleep habits in children. While every child’s need for personal space is valid, sharing can foster bonding and help families maintain their sanity.