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- How to Guarantee Your Kids Become the Most Challenging Sleepers Ever
by Janelle Harper
Updated: March 4, 2021
Originally Published: Oct. 11, 2010
Let’s face it: I am a total failure when it comes to sleep. If I were to write a book about parenting sleep habits, it would be titled “How to Guarantee Your Kids Become the Most Challenging Sleepers Ever.” Talk about a bestseller, right?
I recently read an insightful guest post from a fellow parent discussing her journey to help her children sleep. She prefers not to let her little ones “cry it out” and keeps them close until they’re about 15-18 months old before gently transitioning them to share a room with a sibling. It’s a comforting approach that works for her family, and in parenting, that’s what truly matters. There’s no single right or wrong way; it’s about what fits your family best.
However, I must admit, I’ve made every mistake in the book when it comes to sleep, and I’d love to share my experiences so that you can do the exact opposite. Here are my top missteps:
- Encourage your newborn to sleep on you. Convinced that my baby Mia wouldn’t bond with me since I couldn’t breastfeed, I ended up having her sleep on my chest. This backfired, resulting in a little one who would only sleep if she was nestled right on top of me. Months of retraining followed that poor decision.
- Respond to every whimper. I’m a bit of a softie when it comes to my kids’ cries. The moment I heard even the slightest whimper, I rushed to their rescue (from their peaceful slumber, of course).
- Skip any sort of routine. I used to think it was frustrating when parents had to adhere to strict nap schedules. I wanted my kids to be adaptable, but they’ve taken flexibility to a new level—up until 11 PM, that is!
- Fall asleep next to your kids. My son, Leo, has his own room, but he only sleeps there if I’m squeezed into his twin bed next to him.
- Accidentally become a co-sleeper. Laziness led to the habit of letting at least two of my three kids join me in bed at night. Now, it’s a routine that feels impossible to break.
- Train them to sleep in the car. It’s become a standard that they only want to snooze in the car seat.
- No sleep plan in sight. I tend to parent on a whim, but sleep is one area where a strategy could have been beneficial. There are countless books on effective sleep methods for a reason—they work! It might have been wise to read one or two.
So there you have it. Take my blunders to heart, and you might just enjoy some peaceful nights ahead for both you and your children—unlike my household.
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In summary, while my journey through parenting sleep has been a challenge, learning from my mistakes can help you navigate a smoother path. Embrace what works for you and your family, and happy parenting!