CO-SLEEPING WITH DOUBLE DIGIT KIDS

Written by Olivia Arrow

Co-sleeping, or the practice of parents and children sharing a bed, has been a controversial topic in the parenting community for many years. While some parents swear by it as a way to strengthen the bond with their children and promote secure attachment, others argue that it can hinder a child’s independence and disrupt healthy sleep habits. And when it comes to co-sleeping with double digits kids, those who are ten years old and above, the debate only intensifies.

It is not uncommon for parents to co-sleep with their infants and toddlers, as it provides a sense of security and comfort for both the child and the parent. However, as children grow older and become more independent, the question arises: should they continue to co-sleep with their parents?

For parents of double digits kids, the answer may not be as clear cut as it was when their children were younger. On one hand, co-sleeping can still provide a sense of closeness and connection between parents and their growing children. It can also be seen as a way to ease the transition from childhood to adolescence, as children may still need the comfort and reassurance of their parents as they navigate the challenges of growing up.

On the other hand, there are valid concerns about the impact of co-sleeping on a child’s independence and sleep habits. Double digits kids are at an age where they are starting to develop their own sense of self and may desire more privacy and personal space. Co-sleeping may hinder this natural progression and create a dependence on their parents for comfort and security.

Another concern is the effect on a child’s sleep patterns. As children get older, they require more sleep than they did when they were younger. Co-sleeping may disrupt their sleep, as parents may unintentionally disturb their child’s rest or vice versa. This can lead to daytime fatigue and difficulty concentrating in school, which can have a negative impact on a child’s academic performance.

So, what’s a parent to do when faced with the decision of whether or not to co-sleep with their double digits kids? As with any parenting decision, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Every family is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. However, there are some factors that parents should consider before making a decision about co-sleeping with their older children.

First and foremost, parents should take into account their child’s individual needs and preferences. Some children may thrive on co-sleeping, while others may feel uncomfortable or even resentful towards it. It’s important to have open and honest communication with your child about their feelings towards co-sleeping and to respect their boundaries and desires.

Parents should also consider the physical space and comfort level of their sleeping arrangements. As children get bigger, sharing a bed may become more cramped and uncomfortable for everyone involved. If co-sleeping is still desired, parents may want to invest in a larger bed or even consider setting up a separate sleeping area in the same room to provide more space and privacy for both the child and the parents.

It’s also essential to establish clear boundaries and rules around co-sleeping. This can help prevent any confusion or misunderstandings between parents and children. For example, parents may decide that co-sleeping is only allowed on certain nights or for a limited time, or that the child must sleep in their own bed for part of the night before joining their parents’ bed.

Parents should also consider the long-term effects of co-sleeping with double digits kids. While it may provide comfort and closeness in the short-term, it’s important to think about how this may impact a child’s independence and relationships in the future. Will they be able to sleep independently when they eventually move out of the family home? Will they have difficulty forming healthy boundaries in their adult relationships?

Ultimately, the decision to co-sleep with double digits kids should be based on what is best for the child and the family as a whole. It’s important to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks and to have open and honest communication with your child about their feelings and needs. With careful consideration and respect for each family member’s individual needs, co-sleeping with older children can be a positive and bonding experience for everyone involved.