As parents, my partner and I have often found ourselves enamored with the concept of “routine.” It’s been our trusty guide for navigating everything from bedtime to meals and beyond. Sure, we had friends who suggested we could loosen the reins a bit, but we embraced our structured sleep schedule—it worked wonders for our kids and our sanity.
We showered our little ones with hugs and kisses, but when bedtime rolled around, it was all business. A bit of rocking, some gentle bouncing, and then it was off to their cribs where they’d drift off like champs. I firmly believe our sleep routine is why our kiddos have been such excellent sleepers. But lately, as I watch them grow before my eyes, I’m feeling the urge to toss the routine aside in favor of some extra snuggles.
Every day, I notice just how quickly they’re growing. My daughter, Eliana, chats with me like a savvy negotiator, presenting me with enticing options: “Mom, we can hit the ice cream shop or splash at the pool. What’s it going to be?” She’s got a knack for making me consider my choices. Meanwhile, my son, Leo, explains his thoughts with a serious demeanor, using grand gestures that seem to convey his ideas without words.
Eliana, now nearly my height, sprawls across me, while Leo confidently opens the fridge for his own water, and I can’t help but think he’s probably capable of driving a stick shift. When did they become so grown-up?
My mind races ahead, picturing them opting for sleepovers with friends instead of curling up next to me. Before I know it, they’ll be adults with their own homes. This realization makes me feel like time is slipping away—soon, they might stop asking for those precious moments of closeness.
For the past month, we’ve been at the beach with my parents. My partner has taken some personal days to join us for longer weekends, but mostly, it’s been me and the kids, sprawled out in my bed with plenty of space to cuddle. With a newfound confidence in their sleep habits, I’ve decided to prioritize snuggle time over strict sleep protocols.
There’s a time and place for everything, including routines. But sometimes, it’s essential to set them aside and embrace the chaos. Each parent faces their own choices, and understanding when to stick to the path and when to veer off is part of this wild ride.
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In summary, while routines have their place in parenting, there comes a time when snuggles and connection take precedence. Embracing these fleeting moments can be the most rewarding part of the journey.