As parents, my partner and I have often championed the concept of routine. It’s been our go-to strategy for managing bedtimes, sleep training, meals, and pretty much every aspect of raising our children. Sure, there were friends who suggested we could relax our sleep schedule, but we found comfort in the structure it provided. Our kids, after all, thrived under this regimen, and it kept our household running smoothly.
Our bedtime routine was efficient: a flurry of hugs and kisses, minimal rocking, a bit of bouncing, and then we’d gently place them in their cribs, where they would drift off to sleep like little pros. Our children have always been excellent sleepers, and I’ve credited that success to our steadfast routine. However, as I watch them grow — their faces changing and bodies stretching — I find myself yearning to cast aside the rigidity of our schedule in favor of more snuggles.
Lately, I’ve been struck by just how rapidly they’re growing. My daughter, Sofia, has recently developed a knack for negotiating like a seasoned executive. “Mom, how about ice cream or a trip to the park? You choose!” She definitely knows how to make her case. Meanwhile, my son, Leo, has taken to explaining his ideas with a seriousness that would impress any boardroom. Sofia, now nearly my height, curls up beside me, while Leo confidently opens the fridge to grab his own water — I wouldn’t be surprised if he could drive a car soon. Time is flying by, and I can hardly keep up.
The thought of them choosing sleepovers with friends over cuddles in my bed is bittersweet. Before I know it, they’ll be adults living independently, and I can’t shake the feeling that our time for these cozy moments is slipping away. In the hustle of parenting, it’s easy to overlook how fleeting these stages can be.
Recently, we’ve been enjoying a beach getaway with my parents. My partner has been able to join us on weekends, but for the most part, it’s just me and the kids, sprawled out in my bed. With my confidence as a parent growing and a newfound trust in their sleep habits, I’ve started prioritizing those precious snuggle moments over strict sleep schedules.
There’s a time for everything, including routines, but there’s also a time to set them aside and embrace spontaneity. Each parenting decision is a unique journey, and knowing when to stick to the path or venture off is crucial. If you want to explore more on this topic, check out our post on navigating sleep routines.
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In conclusion, while routines have their place, embracing the warmth of snuggles can create cherished memories that last a lifetime.
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