Your child wants to sleep away from home, should you let them?
Your child suddenly wants to sleep over, at a relative’s house for example. It’s not something you’re used to; being separated from them is not easy. You’ll definitely miss them. Still, you need to know that most moms go through this as well. So what should you do?
Sleeping away from home… when and why?
- When your child is 3 years old, you’ll hear them say “I want to sleep over at my friend’s or relative’s house”.
- This might be surprising, but try to see it from a positive angle; your child is growing up and no longer afraid of being separated from you.
- Never forget that your child wants to meet people outside his father’s and your circle.
- Sleeping away from home also means exploring a new place, lifestyle, and habits.
What should you do?
- Don’t refuse to let them sleep away from home. They’re entitled to some independence and learning to interact with others. Let them go for it; it’ll be a useful experience.
- It’s better if you don’t do it randomly. For example, they can only sleep at a close relative’s or friend’s house.
- Help them prepare their little suitcase. Pack their bedtime teddy bear, but don’t send their toys with them; it’s better that they explore those of their friend or relative.
- If you’re going to let them sleep away from home, don’t look worried; you might pass this on to them. Tell them, for example, “you’ll have so much fun, it’ll be great!” instead of “don’t cry”.
Our advice to you…if they cry at night
- Be careful. It’s wrong to tell your child before going to a friend’s or relative’s house “don’t cry” or “if you cry…”. This will make them feel they’re going somewhere dangerous.
- They’ll probably cry a little before going to bed. But eventually they’ll fall asleep as usual. Of course, don’t think of picking them up, even if you miss them. You need to let them enjoy this experience.
