As a parent, I often find myself embracing the concept of “routine.” My partner and I have relied on it to manage bedtimes, sleep training, and mealtimes, creating a consistent environment for our children. While some friends suggested we didn’t need to be so rigid about our sleep schedule, we thrived on it, and it worked wonders for both our kids and ourselves.
We showered our little ones with affection, but when bedtime rolled around, we became quite serious: minimal rocking, a bit of bouncing, and then it was time to lay them down in their cribs—where they would drift off to sleep like pros. There’s no denying that both kids have been excellent sleepers, and I attribute that success to our sleep routine. I’ve always believed it was a blessing that kept our sanity intact. However, as I gaze at their rapidly growing bodies and changing faces, I find myself tempted to toss the routine aside in favor of more snuggles.
Lately, I can’t help but notice how quickly they’re maturing. My daughter, Mia, speaks to me like a savvy negotiator, presenting me with choices that are hard to resist: “Mom, we can either have ice cream or go to the park. What’s your pick?” I must admit, she knows how to make a compelling case. Meanwhile, my son, Leo, explains his thoughts with a serious demeanor, using expressive gestures that seem to add weight to his words.
Mia is now nearly the same height as me while Leo confidently opens the fridge and pours his own water. At this rate, he might be driving before I know it. When did they grow up so fast? The fleeting nature of childhood has me reflecting on the inevitable future when they’ll prefer sleepovers at friends’ houses instead of snuggling next to me. I dread the thought of waking up one day to find they’ve outgrown the desire to share a bed with me, and the weight of that realization makes me feel like time is slipping away.
Recently, we spent a month at the beach with my parents. My partner took some time off to join us for longer weekends, but for the most part, it was just me and the kids enjoying the spaciousness of my bed. Feeling more assured in my parenting choices and confident in their sleep habits, I’ve become less fixated on the logistics of sleep and more focused on the joy of snuggling.
There’s a time for everything, including sleep routines, but there are also moments when it’s necessary to set those routines aside and embrace the chaos. Every parent faces choices like these, and knowing when to stick to the path and when to venture off is a crucial part of the parenting journey. For additional insights on planning for a family, check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
In the journey of parenthood, routines can provide structure, yet there are times when embracing fleeting moments of connection, like cuddling with your children, is more valuable. As kids grow rapidly, it’s important to balance the need for routine with the desire for closeness. This transition can be bittersweet, but cherishing these moments is what truly matters.