We are happy cosleepers. We have been cosleeping with Ewan since shortly after his birth. We want to continue cosleeping with him, but we also know that sometimes things have to change. Sometimes routines need to be modified a bit to keep everyone happy. The littlest one, especially.
Enter, Ewan’s own sleeping space.
For awhile now we have been ruminating over what kind of space Ewan needs. It has been clear, for awhile, that he was ready, and so were we, for a bit of a change. Ewan goes to bed early now, somewhere between 7 and 8 each night. When we’ve been coming to join him in bed, we’ve been waking him. It seemed like he would sleep better, longer, and more peacefully, if he had a space of his own to start his sleep each night.
We considered many different options. The idea of a crib never really jived with us. Something about the bars, and the lack of control for the child never sat right. Also, a crib doesn’t allow for cuddles from a parent, something that we aren’t willing to give up yet.
A toddler bed seemed a bit unsafe still. Ewan is more mobile now and it will be a bit of time still before he can learn how to safely get himself in and out of bed. One of the goals of getting him his own space was to reduce our worry about his safety when sleeping solo.
As I was searching and reading around the internet, finding countless articles and message boards looking for the perfect option, I happened upon a concept that was, previously, foreign to me. The Montessori floor bed.
After more thought and exploration, it seemed perfect. It is a safe space for him to sleep with no possibility of rolling off and hurting himself. It fits within our small bedroom without making us feel cramped and uncomfortable. And, with a bit of manuevering, Aaron and I can still lay with him, parenting him, until he drifts off into peaceful slumber.
And best of all, Ewan seems to be a fan.
On the first night, he slept there peacefully and happily until about 1:15am. When he woke, we scooped him up and brought him to bed, to nurse and cuddle, just the way we always have. He stayed with us until morning and it was just perfect. A perfect blend of togetherness and separateness. Exactly what we needed right now.
I still want to spiffy up his area a bit. I love how Sew Liberated has created artwork at a low level for her babe to enjoy. I would like to do some of the same, after the holidays, of course.
I’m also thinking that a book sling along one side of his bed would be perfect. That way he can wake up and help himself to a good read.
Overall, I think this is good. I think it is positive for all of us. Although, I have to admit that it was a little lonely in bed without him last night. Aaron and I turned on the nightlight a handful of times to look over and watch him, missing him. But once we did finally lay down, we both relished in all.that.space. It’s amazing how much room that little one takes up in bed!
