As a parent of three children, I’ve learned that sleep patterns can vary dramatically. One thing has been clear: no matter what tricks we tried (and believe me, we tried a ton), it wasn’t until they turned three that my kids started sleeping through the night regularly. That’s a whopping nine years of bleary-eyed parenting, rocking babies to sleep with the dawn breaking, all while knowing I had to face the world on minimal sleep.
Throughout this journey, I often encountered people ready to share their unsolicited opinions about why my child wasn’t sleeping. Or they’d enthusiastically describe how well their child slept, using it as a chance to throw shade at my parenting skills.
It’s tough being exhausted and feeling like your child lost the sleep lottery, with someone else flaunting their success in the sleep department. The last thing I needed was some condescending know-it-all suggesting that I should just let my kid “cry it out” or try some magical essential oils.
Seriously, enough already.
Right now, I’m in the trenches with my toddler, and I don’t have the energy for judgment. I’m navigating a whirlwind of exhaustion and confusion, fully aware that tomorrow will bring more of the same.
I’ve come to understand that every child has their own sleep journey. While my kid might not be sleeping well now, your kid might be the one struggling with potty training or learning to read in a couple of years. Parenting isn’t a race, so let’s drop the competition.
So, to all the self-proclaimed “better” parents out there, save your comments for someone who cares.
Let’s face it: Parenting is challenging. It’s draining. And for me, it has meant countless sleepless nights. My family has its own history of sleep issues, so I’m no stranger to this struggle.
Yet, there you are, the perfect parent, acting like you’ve got it all figured out just because your child sleeps through the night. That attitude isn’t helpful—it’s hurtful.
Instead of judging, how about extending a little empathy? Avoid bringing up how great your kid sleeps. Not every solution that works for you is a universal answer.
Okay, I know this sounds a bit ranty, but I’m sleep-deprived and just need some understanding right now. I crave support and reassurance that everything will be alright. I want to hear that if I hang in there, both my child and I will make it through this, and that I’m not failing as a parent simply because my kid isn’t sleeping soundly.
The reality is that having a child who struggles with sleep is no easy feat. To the parents up late, holding a restless child at 3 a.m. and dragging themselves out of bed the next morning, I see you. You are doing an amazing job. You are there for your child when they need you most, whether that’s when they’re sick, clingy, or just unable to grasp the concept of sleep.
This doesn’t make you a bad parent. In fact, it makes you a dedicated one. Forget the critics. They might not be facing sleep issues now, but they will have their own parenting trials down the line. Instead of gloating, let’s use this opportunity to support one another.
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In summary, let’s support each other rather than judge. Parenting is a unique journey for everyone.