When you become a parent, your ability to enjoy a good night’s sleep often takes a nosedive. Whether your little one is stirring or you’re simply lying awake, fretting about their well-being, sleep can feel elusive. Add a child who rises with the sun, and your chances of ever catching up on rest are pretty much dashed.
Take it from me—my eldest, whom I’ve affectionately dubbed “Early Bird Ethan,” has been up with the dawn (or even earlier) every single morning for the past decade. It’s like living with a lively rooster who starts crowing long before daybreak. He’s up at a time I used to consider a late-night study session during my college years (yes, studying). He’s awake at “I need a whole pot of coffee” o’clock, and somehow, he manages to rouse the rest of the household too.
I had hoped this early rising phase would pass as he approached his teenage years, but so far, no luck. I hear other parents talk about their kids still snoozing at 9 a.m., and I feel like I’m missing out on some secret language because that reality is so foreign to me. Parents of early risers are excluded from such conversations, and frankly, it can be a bit disheartening. Here are five reasons why having an early rising child can be a challenge:
1. Sleeping In? Forget About It.
Even the most stealthy of kids are like elephants in a china shop when it comes to being quiet. You might assume that as they grow older, they’ll learn to handle breakfast or entertain themselves quietly, but that’s rarely the case. How can we catch a few more minutes of sleep when our super-sensitive parental instincts are on high alert for the sound of cereal bowls crashing, milk spilling, or the rustling of a snack bag?
2. Little Sneaky Ninjas.
If you’re still in bed while your early riser is exploring the house, your secret stash of snacks is in serious jeopardy. Everything you’ve hidden away—be it candy, art supplies, or your favorite pen—is now fair game. Early mornings become a treasure hunt for kids, and they see it as the perfect opportunity to explore what they normally can’t reach.
3. If They’re Up, Everyone Is Up.
Sleeping siblings are no match for an early riser. They can’t help but wake them up, whether it’s due to their loudness, their need for entertainment, or their determination to startle them awake with a playful prank.
4. Boundless Energy at the Crack of Dawn.
An early riser leaps out of bed with a level of enthusiasm that’s downright exhausting. While they’re bouncing around, excited to discuss everything from breakfast to their favorite games, you’re still trying to pry your eyes open. The stark contrast between their energy and your morning grogginess can be challenging to navigate.
5. Napping is for Kids.
Early risers don’t see waking up with the sun as a burden; they embrace it! If they feel tired in the afternoon, they can easily curl up for a nap. Meanwhile, parents who’ve been up since dawn are left to soldier through their day without the same luxury. Talk about a double standard!
One can only hope that one day I’ll join the ranks of those parents whose teenagers sleep in past noon. Until then, you’ll find me guzzling coffee and propping my eyelids open. At least I get to capture some stunning sunrises along the way!
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