[blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler

Erin Rumer erinrumer at gmail.com
Wed Nov 2 16:30:45 UTC 2011


Thank you for sharing Pippy, I think that's wonderful.

Erin

-----Original Message-----
From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org] On
Behalf Of Pipi
Sent: Monday, October 31, 2011 10:21 AM
To: NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List
Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler

Erin,
I had a similar issue with Savannah when she was about 9 months old. She 
would scream bloody murder when placed in the crib or pack and play. It 
didn't matter if she was asleep or awake. I took it as she was afraid of the

confined spaces all of a sudden for some unknown reason. I switched to co 
sleeping which worked better for her. I can't say it was always great for 
myself, but I did what was best for her. When we moved here about a year 
ago, I switched her to a toddler bed which she didn't mind for the most 
part. We still go back and forth on co sleeping. She will sleep in her own 
bed, but there are nights when I am too exhausted to sit up with her for the

half hour it takes for her to go to sleep, so she'll sleep in my bed which 
is pretty much an instant falling asleep place. So depending on child, mine 
was about 21 months when she switched to a toddler bed. It took some getting

used to at first. A lost of soothing and some crying, but she did transition

normally i think.P
ipi
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
To: "'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
Sent: Friday, October 28, 2011 10:52 AM
Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler


> Thank you for further explaining yourself Bridget and for understanding my
> points.  I still don't prefer to let Dawson cry it out even at nap or bed
> times because at his age we really don't know his reason for crying and 
> I'd
> hate to leave him to cry and it be because he's scared, confused or in 
> pane
> or for any other reason.  I totally think that older kids can take 
> advantage
> of parents in their own way to get out of napping or sleeping but that's
> further in the future for us for sure.  My problem that I was explaining 
> in
> my original post was that Dawson merely didn't want to sleep in his crib 
> and
> not that I had problems getting him to sleep in general.  One night out of
> the blue when he was ten months old he woke up screaming like I've never
> heard him scream.  We are only left to wonder what caused him to wake up 
> in
> that state but whatever it was, it was enough to change his attitude 
> toward
> his crib from that point on.  After contemplating every possible scenario 
> my
> gut told me that something was genuinely bothering him and not to push the
> issue with him.  He was always a fabulous sleeper and I didn't want Dawson
> to begin having a negative attitude toward bed time because I'm forcing 
> the
> issue of sleeping in the crib.  My behavior with him before this episode
> didn't change so I knew that it wasn't him trying to get into our bed
> because I wasn't bringing him to bed with us before that.  Thankfully the
> problem is solved in a way that makes us all happy.  Dawson and I go into
> our bedroom around 7:30 and after playing quietly for a bit, I nurse him 
> in
> the dark and quiet room until he falls asleep which doesn't take long.  I
> tried to watch a show on television for my own entertainment while nursing
> him to sleep and this only worked for one night and then every other time 
> it
> kept him awake and he thought it was play time.  That was quickly remedied
> with the television going off after we played quietly for a little bit to
> get the wiggles out.  Now that our mattress is on the floor Dawson can be
> safely left once he's asleep and I can leave the room and have some time 
> to
> myself or get a few things done before I go to bed.  Dawson's got a great
> internal clock, so he tends to wake up and start talking to me in bed 
> about
> ten minutes before daddy has to get up for work which is perfect because 
> is
> slowly arouses him instead of a loud alarm clock screaming in his ear to
> wake up.
>
> Problem solved,
>
> Erin
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org] On
> Behalf Of Bridgit Pollpeter
> Sent: Friday, October 28, 2011 7:45 AM
> To: blparent at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Erin,
>
> I agree we can all learn from one another, and I'm certainly not opposed
> to hearing about different methods, products, techniques etc. I think
> there is a lot out there offering some tid-bit of helpful advice and
> wisdom even if not in its entirety. To some extent, trial and error is
> the best method for parents.
>
> I agree with what you list here. I think way too many products exist
> meant to do the job of a parent. I'm pretty young still, only 30, but I
> tend to have more old-fashioned ideas of parenting. Affection is an
> important part of the child-rearing process, and obviously children who
> receive affection from their parents will be more likely to  reciprocate
> affection to others.
>
> My comments before were directed specifically to nap and sleep times. I
> in no way suggest, or believe, a child should be left to cry it out each
> time they cry. Without checking on a crying child, we have no idea if
> they require food, a change or just love. There's nothing wrong with
> comforting a crying child. In fact, the other day, Pen was misbehaving,
> and when my husband took a stern tone with her, she looked over at me
> with that sad, pitiful face, like, "Can you believe this? Did you hear
> him? He spoke sternly to me!" I tried to keep a straight face, but then
> she started crying like the world was ending. Usually I try to talk
> calmly, but firmly in these situations and explain why someone had to
> get after her, but she was tired, and her cries were so pitiful. I ended
> up holding her for a bit until she stopped. Some may say I was awarding
> bad behavior, but it just broke my heart the way she was crying.
>
> So I'm not recommending we leave our kids to fend for themselves each
> time they cry or are upset. I was focused on bedtimes. With scheduled
> bedtimes, Pen has gotten to a point where she will now put herself down,
> but she can still resist sleep when she wants. Even when we get her and
> try laying with her, she thinks it's just play time. My advice was that
> during sleep times, if they cry, it's okay to let them cry it out.
>
> Studies can be completely contradictary. I don't really like using
> studies in these arguments because of this. I've read, and heard of,
> studies showing that when we respond to every episode of crying, we
> condition children to learn that no matter the situation, crying, or
> some verbalization, gets them what they want. Of course babies and
> toddlers can't process the concept of manipulation. I use this word not
> in terms of how an older child, or adult, can manipulate, but in so far
> as how a conditioning response works. Baby cries because you put them
> down for naptime, they resist sleep, you get them and either lay down
> with them or allow them to get up, and the conditioned response is
> marked in the brain as crying lets me get out of sleep. No a child
> doesn't reason it out this way, but at the basic mental functioning, a
> conditioning response is being instilled.
>
> Your original post came across as though Dawson were fighting sleep, and
> you were unable to accomplish chores or things for yourself because of
> this. Based on this interpretation, it makes sense that if Dawson can't
> be left alone until asleep because he will either get up or may fall off
> the bed, logic dictates that a crib, or some contained sleeping space,
> accomplishes what you need. He may cry, but crying in this situation
> isn't because he doesn't feel loved or that he requires affection or
> that he will now grow up with abandonment issues. He's not getting his
> way and isn't happy about it. Again, of course a toddler doesn't have
> the sophisticated reasoning capacity to understand exactly what he's
> doing and why, but early on, again more studies, kids learn
> conditioning. When my husband got after Pen for throwing food at the
> dog, her thought was, Oh, mama isn't getting after me so I'll run to her
> for comfort. And again, her mental capacity didn't rationalize it quite
> this advancely, but in essence, this is what was happening. It's similar
> when a child cries after being put down for a nap. Crying isn't always a
> cry for affection. Attention perhaps, but not always affection.
> Sometimes it's to get what they want.
>
> We obviously love our kids and only want what is best. Please don't
> mistake my argument as being against affection or soothing a crying
> child. I do, however, believe that every instance of crying doesn't mean
> we need to respond. And of course babies and toddlers are not advanced
> enough to manipulate in the sense of precalculating and planning, but we
> can condition kids to react and behave certain ways, and we, as adults,
> can become conditioned to react and behave in certain ways. The language
> may make it sound more complex and sophisticated, but it's basic brain
> functioning- react and respond instincts- A + B equals C. Letting a
> child cry during sleep times isn't harmful or detremental to the growth
> process of a child. Not responding when they cry every time does not
> equate to the fact that a child will now have abandonment issues and
> feel alone.
>
> So I'm not talking about denying affection or relying on products or
> other people to care for my child. Nor is letting a child cry a barbaric
> form of parenting. Crying is a way for young children to communicate to
> us. When hungry, wet, tired, sick, they cry. Does it not make sense that
> they would use this language to demand and try to get something they
> want? If they know enough to cry over food or changing or illness, they
> know enough to cry when they aren't happy about something. Especially as
> they grow into a toddler.
>
> As I said, studies can be found supporting all sides and methods.
> Ultimately, for me, it's about balance. No one is the perfect parent,
> and regardless of what we do, we will make mistakes along the way. As
> long as we love our kids though, hopefully those mistakes will pale in
> comparison in the long-run. Nonetheless, conditioning can happen, and
> will happen, and has the potential, depending on what the response is,
> to lead to certain behavior and expectations. When I said my sister's
> kids learned to set their own bed and meal times, I didn't mean to imply
> they consciously make decisions, but they became conditioned to certain
> behavior based on how my sister and her husband responded. My niece is
> in first-grade this year, but she still has trouble sleeping before
> midnight because each time she cried because she was put in her crib,
> they got her up and brought her into bed with them. Her real issue was
> about fighting sleep, and so if she didn't fall asleep with them, she
> just played. Regardless of her biological needs, her brain was
> conditioned to fight sleep, and if placed in her crib, she knew crying
> invoked a response from mommy and daddy.
>
> In a nutshell, letting a child cry during sleep time is not a form of
> barbaric child torture, nor is it indicative of bad parenting. You may
> feel bad about it, but that doesn't make it wrong in and of itself. My
> post was not about responding to each instance of crying or refusing to
> display affection; it was about sleep times and the importance of
> teaching a child, even as young as a toddler, rules and guidelines.
> Naptime is at X hour and you sleep in the crib. They may cry, but once
> use to it, they usually become conditioned to how sleep time works.
>
> Sincerely,
> Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
> Read my blog at:
> http://blogs.livewellnebraska.com/author/bpollpeter/
>
> "History is not what happened; history is what was written down."
> The Expected One- Kathleen McGowan
>
> Message: 20
> Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2011 13:42:52 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <001c01cc94e9$00288c90$0079a5b0$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
>
> Thanks for your comments Bridget, like you said we all have our own
> opinions and parenting styles and I'm thankful for parents like you
> because you help me build a stronger back bone toward my beliefs of how
> I'm raising Dawson and being more confident that what I'm doing is right
> for him.  I used to care more what people thought, and then I realized
> that there's a lot of unsound advice out there and I need to do what I
> know is right for Dawson in my heart.  I agree that we can share wisdom
> with one another and I really recommend a book call "The No Cry
> Solution" and anything from Dr. Sears. Babies cry and it's there only
> way to communicate with us.  If we ignore that then we are telling our
> child that we will not be there for them when they need us.  Children
> Dawson's age don't have the ability to manipulate like an adult can and
> that's where a lot of parents make mistakes in thinking that their
> child's cries are manipulative tactics to "get at their parents".  The
> sooner a child learns that their needs are going to be met, the more
> confident and secure that child is going to be and the less manipulative
> they're actually going to have to be as they get older because their
> needs are being met.  A child that has to worry about whether or not
> their parent is going to be there for them or not is spending precious
> energy on just surviving in getting their basic needs met and not
> focusing on learning and just being a fun loving kid.  I see this in my
> everyday life with Dawson.  When he cries, I go to him and take care of
> him and he stops crying immediately.  He is calm and confident in nearly
> every situation in our day-to-day life which tells me I'm doing the
> right thing.  I know that a lot of this could be personality as well,
> but my parenting methods are only fostering this behavior because I'm
> telling him that I'm there for him and will nurture him always.
>
> We live in a society that is so barbaric compared to other countries
> when it comes to some of these topics.  We are a culture that makes
> teddy bears that sing our children to sleep and have heart beat sounds
> just so we can avoid holding and singing to our own babies.  We have
> cribs that rock our children and bottle proper's to feed them all so we
> can avoid doing our parental duties.  These tools are alright on a rare
> occasion, but some people use them all the time.  My husband and some
> dear friends make sure I get some me time so I definitely don't feel
> deprived in this category and now that I can nurse Dawson on our bed
> that's on the floor and sneak away at night to get some time to myself,
> it's even better.  Our attitude as parents needs to be, how can I meet
> my child's needs while also meeting my own, rather than, my kid's going
> to do what I want despite their needs and they'll adjust to that.
> Studies have shown across the board that the baby that is left to cry it
> out stops crying eventually, not because they've learned to be a better
> baby, but rather because they've begun to just give up and are very
> confused and insecure about whether or not their parent is going to be
> there for them when they need them.  I know some other parents who do
> the cry it out method and I watch their children very closely during
> play group.  These are the kids that are screaming louder and are much
> more disengaged with mom when it comes to relaxing and having fun time
> because they're more concerned with getting their basic needs met.  I
> guess the best way I can describe it is that these are the children that
> seem much more stressed out compared to their peers.
>
> You cannot spoil a baby with love and affection and when Dawson grows up
> to be a confident, secure man because his needs were met growing up and
> he was allowed to be a baby, then my hard work as a mom will shine at
> its brightest.  I'm going to make mistakes like everyone, but holding my
> child when he cries and going to him when he needs me is something I
> know in my heart is a good thing I'm doing for him.  I'm teaching Dawson
> how to be not only a good person, but also a good daddy and husband in
> the future.  I pray that I get the opportunity to watch Dawson comfort
> his babies and laugh and play with them because that will be one of the
> most wonderful gifts a parent could get from their child.
>
> Food for thought,
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Bridgit Pollpeter
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:09 PM
> To: blparent at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Well, looks like I'm going to be the bitch here. LOL Though it's great
> to see our kids grow up and become perceptive and aware, you're letting
> Dawson have the upperhand. He's not only aware of your intention, he's
> made the connection that certain behavior will get him what he wants-
> out of the crib and freedom to either stay awake or roam your room at
> his leisure. It's not processed quite this intelligently, but on a basic
> level, he knows what the situation is and how to respond. You're
> basically catering to his whims now.
>
> My sister did exactly what you're doing, and her kids to this day rule
> the roost. They set their own bedtimes, eat when they want and know how
> to manipulate the situation to get what they want. This was all learned
> at an early age. The oldest at seven is still like this.
>
> Crying is a healthy, natural part of life. Crying doesn't mean they are
> hurt or that you're a bad parent. Penny, at two-years-old, has to cry it
> out for an hour at times before falling asleep. Usually she just plays
> in her bed, but she does cry at times. Nothing will happen to them when
> they cry though, and studies actually show it's healthy for children,
> and adults, to just cry at times.
>
> No one is the perfect parent, and no one has all the answers. If you
> can't accomplish chores or unwind though, there's a problem. And if
> you're letting Dawson dictate all this, he's now dominating the
> situation. Placing the matress on the floor is just the last straw in my
> opinion. You want him to be safe and healthy, but to completely uproot
> your schedule and life, this doesn't seem healthy.
>
> It won't kill Dawson or you if he cries and cries in his crib. Children
> actually require limits and boundries regardless of how they feel or
> what they say and do. Penny has taken to screaming like a night owl when
> she wants her way. We've learned to ignore it even when in public. Once
> she realizes this doesn't get her attention, or her way, she stops. She
> will do it during naptime in her crib too. After she realizes no one is
> coming to let her out though, she lays back down and falls asleep.
>
> I know it's tough, and you enjoy the bonding aspect, but honey, that kid
> is wrapping his little finger around you much too tight, and he has all
> the cards in his hand. You think the crying-it-out method is cruel and
> unpleasant, but in a few years, you won't find it so pleasant when
> Dawson is always demanding his way and refusing to listen to you. This
> doesn't mean he isn't a sweet heart, but he's learning behavior at a
> young age that is ingraining certain behavior and ideas that will stick.
>
> And you mention how much you enjoy the bonding aspect, but what about
> Dawson? Not that he doesn't like mommy time, or isn't learning anything
> from the bonding, but at this point, the bonding seems to be more about
> how the experience is for you, and not about what is best for Dawson.
> You need time apart from him to unwind, relax, do something just for
> yourself, or spend valuable bonding time with your husband. This is all
> just as important as bonding with Dawson. Neither one of you seems
> better for this scenario; maybe trying something new should be
> considered.
>
> And if Dawson is always sleeping with you, it won't be easy to have
> another child! Smile.
>
> I realize numerous methods and ideas for parenting exist. This is my
> opinion, and it's either to be taken or ignored. Do not interpret this
> as me saying you're a bad parent either. We all make mistakes, and we
> all just want the best for our children. I just think you've dug
> yourself a hole that, if continueing, will be difficult to dig out of.
> Take control of the situation, and if Dawson has to cry, it won't kill
> him. You need time for yourself and with your husband. This is my two
> cents, and just an opinion. I have my own parenting issues to deal with;
> we all do. But I've learned from this list that we can all offer some
> wisdom, and we can learn from one another.
>
> Sincerely,
> Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
> Read my blog at: http://blogs.livewellnebraska.com/author/bpollpeter/
>
> "History is not what happened; history is what was written down." The
> Expected One- Kathleen McGowan
>
> Message: 1
> Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:11:53 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "NFB blind parent listserv" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [blparent] co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <002601cc9339$320be100$9623a300$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
>
> Hello parents,
>
>
>
> I'd love to hear from those of you who chose to co-sleep with your
> babies. My son Dawson who will be one years old on Halloween has been
> co-sleeping with my husband and I since he was ten months old.  I
> absolutely love the co-sleeping arrangement and in many ways wish I had
> started it earlier.  The only snag that I'm finding is that Dawson used
> to be able and go down in his crib for the first stretch of the night
> which was a couple of hours and then by the time he woke-up I'd be ready
> to go to bed or my husband would just bring him into me to co-sleep. Now
> Dawson doesn't want to do the first stretch on his own and refuses to go
> down without me.  I'm an early to bed person but now not having that few
> hours on my own is difficult.  How do those of you with co-sleeping
> toddlers usually start out your night?  I'm finding that just letting
> Dawson play a little longer in my room with the TV on low helps him
> start to calm for the night and then around 8:30 we can lay down
> together with no stimulation noise or lights on and he'll fall asleep
> quickly.  This isn't giving me any time to unwind for the night though.
> I'm still nursing Dawson so daddy putting him down to bed is out of the
> question since he needs boob to fall asleep and that's not a battle I
> want to start right now especially since breast feeding is so special
> and something both Dawson and I love very much. I'm against cry it out
> methods and want sleep time to continue to be a positive and pleasant
> experience for everyone.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
> _______________________________________________
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> com
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 21
> Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2011 13:47:20 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [blparent] new baby
> Message-ID: <001d01cc94e9$a01567f0$e04037d0$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
>
> Congratulations Jessica and I love the name Noah.  You have a precious
> gift in your arms and the best advice I can give to you is just love on
> that baby, kiss him and hug him until your lips and arms feel like
> they're going to fall off because they grow up too fast.  I'm so happy
> for you and recommend really scoping out the resale shops in your area.
> I got too many things in the beginning at retail and am now finding
> nearly everything Dawson needs at wonderful second hand stores which
> really save the pocketbook.
>
> Best to you and your little bundle.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Jessica Pitzer
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 1:33 PM
> To: blparent at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [blparent] new baby
>
> Hi list.
> I have a new baby.
> He's 1 month old today.
> I'm looking at things for christmas and just future purchases. Do any of
> you have any products for a new baby or any websites that you've found
> easy to shop for things for a new baby, like toys and so on. Thanks a
> lot. Jessica and Noah
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blparent_nfbnet.org/erinrumer%40gmail.
> com
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 22
> Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2011 13:57:50 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <001e01cc94eb$17c7feb0$4757fc10$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
>
> Rebecca, love the idea of fun sheets on the big kid bed when the child
> is ready.  This is a great money saving method to make the toddler's bed
> novel and exciting.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Pickrell, Rebecca M (TASC)
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 1:11 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> A fun bed won't do squat if the maturity isn't there. Then you've spent
> money on something that won't be used and cannot be used for anything
> else. We did get our daughter some fun sheets for her big girl bed,
> which is a regular twin bed, but that was because she was mentally
> ready. And there was no problem with transition.
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Erin Rumer
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 3:55 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Yes, there are definitely individual factors that don't make co-sleeping
> the best for some families.  Did you get your son a special fun toddler
> bed or convert a convertible crib?  I have a convertible crib but am
> wondering if a fun car bed or something like that wouldn't be better for
> the transition from our family bed to his big boy bed when he's older.
> For now we're just enjoying having Dawson with us.  They grow up too
> fast and I'm just loving him being a baby-new toddler right now.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Chad Allen
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:37 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> I strongly discouraged my wife from co-sleeping at an early age. I had
> no problems with the cradle being in the room but once Harrison went
> from cradle to crib, I worked very hard at not having us co-sleep.
>
> First, I'm a deep sleeper so when Harrison was little, I was concerned
> that I might roll over on him without knowing. Many books reinforced my
> concerns so we avoided the habit at a young age.
>
> When my wife tried co-sleeping after some protest, no one slept and he
> quickly returned to sleeping in his own crib after only a few nights.
>
> Now, Harrison sleeps from 9-11 hours in his bed and at 15 months, we
> converted the crib to a bed. He sleeps in it and does not get out of the
> bed until morning. We have the baby monitor on and we sleep with it on
> and everything works out great.
>
> My wife is quite happy too because she knows her son is a big boy who
> can sleep on his own and we all get the sleep we deserve.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Chad
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Bridgit Pollpeter
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:09 PM
> To: blparent at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Well, looks like I'm going to be the bitch here. LOL Though it's great
> to see our kids grow up and become perceptive and aware, you're letting
> Dawson have the upperhand. He's not only aware of your intention, he's
> made the connection that certain behavior will get him what he wants-
> out of the crib and freedom to either stay awake or roam your room at
> his leisure. It's not processed quite this intelligently, but on a basic
> level, he knows what the situation is and how to respond. You're
> basically catering to his whims now.
>
> My sister did exactly what you're doing, and her kids to this day rule
> the roost. They set their own bedtimes, eat when they want and know how
> to manipulate the situation to get what they want. This was all learned
> at an early age. The oldest at seven is still like this.
>
> Crying is a healthy, natural part of life. Crying doesn't mean they are
> hurt or that you're a bad parent. Penny, at two-years-old, has to cry it
> out for an hour at times before falling asleep. Usually she just plays
> in her bed, but she does cry at times. Nothing will happen to them when
> they cry though, and studies actually show it's healthy for children,
> and adults, to just cry at times.
>
> No one is the perfect parent, and no one has all the answers. If you
> can't accomplish chores or unwind though, there's a problem. And if
> you're letting Dawson dictate all this, he's now dominating the
> situation. Placing the matress on the floor is just the last straw in my
> opinion. You want him to be safe and healthy, but to completely uproot
> your schedule and life, this doesn't seem healthy.
>
> It won't kill Dawson or you if he cries and cries in his crib. Children
> actually require limits and boundries regardless of how they feel or
> what they say and do. Penny has taken to screaming like a night owl when
> she wants her way. We've learned to ignore it even when in public. Once
> she realizes this doesn't get her attention, or her way, she stops. She
> will do it during naptime in her crib too. After she realizes no one is
> coming to let her out though, she lays back down and falls asleep.
>
> I know it's tough, and you enjoy the bonding aspect, but honey, that kid
> is wrapping his little finger around you much too tight, and he has all
> the cards in his hand. You think the crying-it-out method is cruel and
> unpleasant, but in a few years, you won't find it so pleasant when
> Dawson is always demanding his way and refusing to listen to you. This
> doesn't mean he isn't a sweet heart, but he's learning behavior at a
> young age that is ingraining certain behavior and ideas that will stick.
>
> And you mention how much you enjoy the bonding aspect, but what about
> Dawson? Not that he doesn't like mommy time, or isn't learning anything
> from the bonding, but at this point, the bonding seems to be more about
> how the experience is for you, and not about what is best for Dawson.
> You need time apart from him to unwind, relax, do something just for
> yourself, or spend valuable bonding time with your husband. This is all
> just as important as bonding with Dawson. Neither one of you seems
> better for this scenario; maybe trying something new should be
> considered.
>
> And if Dawson is always sleeping with you, it won't be easy to have
> another child! Smile.
>
> I realize numerous methods and ideas for parenting exist. This is my
> opinion, and it's either to be taken or ignored. Do not interpret this
> as me saying you're a bad parent either. We all make mistakes, and we
> all just want the best for our children. I just think you've dug
> yourself a hole that, if continueing, will be difficult to dig out of.
> Take control of the situation, and if Dawson has to cry, it won't kill
> him. You need time for yourself and with your husband. This is my two
> cents, and just an opinion. I have my own parenting issues to deal with;
> we all do. But I've learned from this list that we can all offer some
> wisdom, and we can learn from one another.
>
> Sincerely,
> Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
> Read my blog at: http://blogs.livewellnebraska.com/author/bpollpeter/
>
> "History is not what happened; history is what was written down." The
> Expected One- Kathleen McGowan
>
> Message: 1
> Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:11:53 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "NFB blind parent listserv" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [blparent] co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <002601cc9339$320be100$9623a300$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;       charset="us-ascii"
>
> Hello parents,
>
>
>
> I'd love to hear from those of you who chose to co-sleep with your
> babies. My son Dawson who will be one years old on Halloween has been
> co-sleeping with my husband and I since he was ten months old.  I
> absolutely love the co-sleeping arrangement and in many ways wish I had
> started it earlier.  The only snag that I'm finding is that Dawson used
> to be able and go down in his crib for the first stretch of the night
> which was a couple of hours and then by the time he woke-up I'd be ready
> to go to bed or my husband would just bring him into me to co-sleep. Now
> Dawson doesn't want to do the first stretch on his own and refuses to go
> down without me.  I'm an early to bed person but now not having that few
> hours on my own is difficult.  How do those of you with co-sleeping
> toddlers usually start out your night?  I'm finding that just letting
> Dawson play a little longer in my room with the TV on low helps him
> start to calm for the night and then around 8:30 we can lay down
> together with no stimulation noise or lights on and he'll fall asleep
> quickly.  This isn't giving me any time to unwind for the night though.
> I'm still nursing Dawson so daddy putting him down to bed is out of the
> question since he needs boob to fall asleep and that's not a battle I
> want to start right now especially since breast feeding is so special
> and something both Dawson and I love very much. I'm against cry it out
> methods and want sleep time to continue to be a positive and pleasant
> experience for everyone.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
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> blparent:
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> gic.
> com
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
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> com
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
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> 0tas
> c.com
> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message and any attachments or files
> transmitted with it (collectively, the "Message") are intended only for
> the addressee and may contain information that is privileged,
> proprietary and/or prohibited from disclosure by law or contract. If you
> are not the intended
> recipient: (a) please do not read, copy or retransmit the Message; (b)
> permanently delete and/or destroy all electronic and hard copies of the
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> com
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 23
> Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2011 13:58:32 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <001f01cc94eb$308268a0$918739e0$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
>
> Right on, girlfriend!
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Pickrell, Rebecca M (TASC)
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 12:56 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> My husband was big into wanting our daughter to self-soothe. I wasn't
> because as I tried to explain to him "We have the means to physically
> get up and do what we want to calm down be that food, drink or read or
> whatever. She doesn't". He thought I coddled her too much. So, I decided
> to demonstrate my point. I got him really into a certain mood and when
> he wanted to complete the deal I pulled away and said "Time for you to
> learn to self-soothe".
>
> End of discussion
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Jennith Lucas
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 10:50 AM
> To: NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> I agree with Rebecca. It really depends on each family. What works for
> yours may not work for mine.
>
> I think it also depends on your night time goals. For me, I'd like some
> time with husband, some time to un wind, and maybe a chance to do some
> last minute tasks. I don't need my son to sleep through the night. When
> we do sleep, I'd like to easily be able to get him back to sleep, and
> I'd like to make night time enjoyable for everyone. My son wants a snack
> in the night and the security of knowing mom and dad are there.
> Co-sleeping is how we meet our goals.
>
> Just like adults, babies and children communicate differently and have
> different needs. It's the job of the parent to decide what that
> communication means.  On Oct 27, 2011 8:03 AM, "Pickrell, Rebecca M
> (TASC)" < REBECCA.PICKRELL at tasc.com> wrote:
>
>> Much of this depends on the dynamics of your family.
>> I couldn't sleep well with husband and daughter in bed, yet there were
>> and still are nights when she and/or I need the human contact of
> cuddling.
>> Husband gets to camp out downstairs which he likes.
>>
>> If you didn't, this arangement wouldn't work.
>>
>> And sleeping on your own has nothing to do with being big or little.
>> We all need human contact. It's why people get married so they can
>> fulfill human needs that would in most cases be inappropriate to
>> fulfill in any other fashion.
>> At 15 months, my daughter didn't havethe maturity to stay in a bed.
>> She didn't graduate until she was about three. The mental ability
>> simply wasn't there.
>> She also hasn't graduated to a booster seat because the ability to
>> stay still just isn't present yet.
>>
>>
>>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
>> On Behalf Of Chad Allen
>> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 8:37 PM
>> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
>> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>>
>> I strongly discouraged my wife from co-sleeping at an early age. I had
>> no problems with the cradle being in the room but once Harrison went
>> from cradle to crib, I worked very hard at not having us co-sleep.
>>
>> First, I'm a deep sleeper so when Harrison was little, I was concerned
>> that I might roll over on him without knowing. Many books reinforced
>> my concerns so we avoided the habit at a young age.
>>
>> When my wife tried co-sleeping after some protest, no one slept and he
>> quickly returned to sleeping in his own crib after only a few nights.
>>
>> Now, Harrison sleeps from 9-11 hours in his bed and at 15 months, we
>> converted the crib to a bed. He sleeps in it and does not get out of
>> the bed until morning. We have the baby monitor on and we sleep with
>> it on and everything works out great.
>>
>> My wife is quite happy too because she knows her son is a big boy who
>> can sleep on his own and we all get the sleep we deserve.
>>
>> Hope this helps.
>>
>> Chad
>>
>>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
>> On Behalf Of Bridgit Pollpeter
>> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:09 PM
>> To: blparent at nfbnet.org
>> Subject: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>>
>> Well, looks like I'm going to be the bitch here. LOL Though it's great
>> to see our kids grow up and become perceptive and aware, you're
>> letting Dawson have the upperhand. He's not only aware of your
>> intention, he's made the connection that certain behavior will get him
>
>> what he wants- out of the crib and freedom to either stay awake or
>> roam your room at his leisure. It's not processed quite this
>> intelligently, but on a basic level, he knows what the situation is
>> and how to respond. You're basically catering to his whims now.
>>
>> My sister did exactly what you're doing, and her kids to this day rule
>> the roost. They set their own bedtimes, eat when they want and know
>> how to manipulate the situation to get what they want. This was all
>> learned at an early age. The oldest at seven is still like this.
>>
>> Crying is a healthy, natural part of life. Crying doesn't mean they
>> are hurt or that you're a bad parent. Penny, at two-years-old, has to
>> cry it out for an hour at times before falling asleep. Usually she
>> just plays in her bed, but she does cry at times. Nothing will happen
>> to them when they cry though, and studies actually show it's healthy
>> for children, and adults, to just cry at times.
>>
>> No one is the perfect parent, and no one has all the answers. If you
>> can't accomplish chores or unwind though, there's a problem. And if
>> you're letting Dawson dictate all this, he's now dominating the
>> situation. Placing the matress on the floor is just the last straw in
>> my opinion. You want him to be safe and healthy, but to completely
>> uproot your schedule and life, this doesn't seem healthy.
>>
>> It won't kill Dawson or you if he cries and cries in his crib.
>> Children actually require limits and boundries regardless of how they
>> feel or what they say and do. Penny has taken to screaming like a
>> night owl when she wants her way. We've learned to ignore it even when
>
>> in public. Once she realizes this doesn't get her attention, or her
>> way, she stops. She will do it during naptime in her crib too. After
>> she realizes no one is coming to let her out though, she lays back
> down
> and falls asleep.
>>
>> I know it's tough, and you enjoy the bonding aspect, but honey, that
>> kid is wrapping his little finger around you much too tight, and he
>> has all the cards in his hand. You think the crying-it-out method is
>> cruel and unpleasant, but in a few years, you won't find it so
>> pleasant when Dawson is always demanding his way and refusing to
>> listen to you. This doesn't mean he isn't a sweet heart, but he's
>> learning behavior at a young age that is ingraining certain behavior
> and
> ideas that will stick.
>>
>> And you mention how much you enjoy the bonding aspect, but what about
>> Dawson? Not that he doesn't like mommy time, or isn't learning
>> anything from the bonding, but at this point, the bonding seems to be
>> more about how the experience is for you, and not about what is best
> for
> Dawson.
>> You need time apart from him to unwind, relax, do something just for
>> yourself, or spend valuable bonding time with your husband. This is
>> all just as important as bonding with Dawson. Neither one of you seems
>
>> better for this scenario; maybe trying something new should be
>> considered.
>>
>> And if Dawson is always sleeping with you, it won't be easy to have
>> another child! Smile.
>>
>> I realize numerous methods and ideas for parenting exist. This is my
>> opinion, and it's either to be taken or ignored. Do not interpret this
>
>> as me saying you're a bad parent either. We all make mistakes, and we
>> all just want the best for our children. I just think you've dug
>> yourself a hole that, if continueing, will be difficult to dig out of.
>> Take control of the situation, and if Dawson has to cry, it won't kill
>
>> him. You need time for yourself and with your husband. This is my two
>> cents, and just an opinion. I have my own parenting issues to deal
>> with; we all do. But I've learned from this list that we can all offer
>
>> some wisdom, and we can learn from one another.
>>
>> Sincerely,
>> Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
>> Read my blog at: http://blogs.livewellnebraska.com/author/bpollpeter/
>>
>> "History is not what happened; history is what was written down." The
>> Expected One- Kathleen McGowan
>>
>> Message: 1
>> Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:11:53 -0700
>> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
>> To: "NFB blind parent listserv" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
>> Subject: [blparent] co-sleeping with toddler
>> Message-ID: <002601cc9339$320be100$9623a300$@gmail.com>
>> Content-Type: text/plain;       charset="us-ascii"
>>
>> Hello parents,
>>
>>
>>
>> I'd love to hear from those of you who chose to co-sleep with your
>> babies. My son Dawson who will be one years old on Halloween has been
>> co-sleeping with my husband and I since he was ten months old.  I
>> absolutely love the co-sleeping arrangement and in many ways wish I
>> had started it earlier.  The only snag that I'm finding is that Dawson
>
>> used to be able and go down in his crib for the first stretch of the
>> night which was a couple of hours and then by the time he woke-up I'd
>> be ready to go to bed or my husband would just bring him into me to
> co-sleep.
>> Now Dawson doesn't want to do the first stretch on his own and refuses
>> to go down without me.  I'm an early to bed person but now not having
>> that few hours on my own is difficult.  How do those of you with
>> co-sleeping toddlers usually start out your night?  I'm finding that
>> just letting Dawson play a little longer in my room with the TV on low
>
>> helps him start to calm for the night and then around 8:30 we can lay
>> down together with no stimulation noise or lights on and he'll fall
>> asleep quickly.  This isn't giving me any time to unwind for the night
>
>> though.  I'm still nursing Dawson so daddy putting him down to bed is
>> out of the question since he needs boob to fall asleep and that's not
>> a battle I want to start right now especially since breast feeding is
>> so special and something both Dawson and I love very much.  I'm
>> against cry it out methods and want sleep time to continue to be a
>> positive and pleasant experience for everyone.
>>
>>
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> blparent mailing list
>> blparent at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> blparent:
>>
>>
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blparent_nfbnet.org/chad%40chadallenma
> gic.
>> com<http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blparent_nfbnet.org/chad%40chada
>> llenmagic.com>
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> blparent mailing list
>> blparent at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> blparent:
>>
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blparent_nfbnet.org/rebecca.pickrell
>> %40tasc.com CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message and any attachments
>> or files transmitted with it (collectively, the "Message") are
>> intended only for the addressee and may contain information that is
>> privileged, proprietary and/or prohibited from disclosure by law or
>> contract. If you are not the intended
>> recipient: (a) please do not read, copy or retransmit the Message; (b)
>
>> permanently delete and/or destroy all electronic and hard copies of
>> the Message; (c) notify us by return email; and (d) you are hereby
>> notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of the
>> Message is strictly prohibited.
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> blparent mailing list
>> blparent at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> blparent:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blparent_nfbnet.org/nethy.ann%40gmai
>> l.com
>>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
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> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
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> 0tas
> c.com
> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message and any attachments or files
> transmitted with it (collectively, the "Message") are intended only for
> the addressee and may contain information that is privileged,
> proprietary and/or prohibited from disclosure by law or contract. If you
> are not the intended
> recipient: (a) please do not read, copy or retransmit the Message; (b)
> permanently delete and/or destroy all electronic and hard copies of the
> Message; (c) notify us by return email; and (d) you are hereby notified
> that any dissemination, distribution or copying of the Message is
> strictly prohibited.
>
> _______________________________________________
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> blparent:
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> com
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 24
> Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2011 21:04:20 +0000
> From: "Pickrell, Rebecca M (TASC)" <REBECCA.PICKRELL at tasc.com>
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List' <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <AAE38548E198F64B8E345439B68CCC7832EDBFF3 at TSEAMB02>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
>
> Thank you.
> Dawson may or may not like a toddler bed, but as he isn't shelling out
> the $$$ he doesn't get a vote. You don't gain any functionality that a
> big bed won't give you, plus you can use a big bed a whole heck of a lot
> longer. Only advice I have is get waterproof mattress pads so you don't
> ruin the mattress. You may want to do that for your own bed too since he
> sleeps with you.
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Erin Rumer
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 4:58 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Rebecca, love the idea of fun sheets on the big kid bed when the child
> is ready.  This is a great money saving method to make the toddler's bed
> novel and exciting.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Pickrell, Rebecca M (TASC)
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 1:11 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> A fun bed won't do squat if the maturity isn't there. Then you've spent
> money on something that won't be used and cannot be used for anything
> else. We did get our daughter some fun sheets for her big girl bed,
> which is a regular twin bed, but that was because she was mentally
> ready. And there was no problem with transition.
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Erin Rumer
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 3:55 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Yes, there are definitely individual factors that don't make co-sleeping
> the best for some families.  Did you get your son a special fun toddler
> bed or convert a convertible crib?  I have a convertible crib but am
> wondering if a fun car bed or something like that wouldn't be better for
> the transition from our family bed to his big boy bed when he's older.
> For now we're just enjoying having Dawson with us.  They grow up too
> fast and I'm just loving him being a baby-new toddler right now.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Chad Allen
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:37 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> I strongly discouraged my wife from co-sleeping at an early age. I had
> no problems with the cradle being in the room but once Harrison went
> from cradle to crib, I worked very hard at not having us co-sleep.
>
> First, I'm a deep sleeper so when Harrison was little, I was concerned
> that I might roll over on him without knowing. Many books reinforced my
> concerns so we avoided the habit at a young age.
>
> When my wife tried co-sleeping after some protest, no one slept and he
> quickly returned to sleeping in his own crib after only a few nights.
>
> Now, Harrison sleeps from 9-11 hours in his bed and at 15 months, we
> converted the crib to a bed. He sleeps in it and does not get out of the
> bed until morning. We have the baby monitor on and we sleep with it on
> and everything works out great.
>
> My wife is quite happy too because she knows her son is a big boy who
> can sleep on his own and we all get the sleep we deserve.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Chad
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Bridgit Pollpeter
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:09 PM
> To: blparent at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Well, looks like I'm going to be the bitch here. LOL Though it's great
> to see our kids grow up and become perceptive and aware, you're letting
> Dawson have the upperhand. He's not only aware of your intention, he's
> made the connection that certain behavior will get him what he wants-
> out of the crib and freedom to either stay awake or roam your room at
> his leisure. It's not processed quite this intelligently, but on a basic
> level, he knows what the situation is and how to respond. You're
> basically catering to his whims now.
>
> My sister did exactly what you're doing, and her kids to this day rule
> the roost. They set their own bedtimes, eat when they want and know how
> to manipulate the situation to get what they want. This was all learned
> at an early age. The oldest at seven is still like this.
>
> Crying is a healthy, natural part of life. Crying doesn't mean they are
> hurt or that you're a bad parent. Penny, at two-years-old, has to cry it
> out for an hour at times before falling asleep. Usually she just plays
> in her bed, but she does cry at times. Nothing will happen to them when
> they cry though, and studies actually show it's healthy for children,
> and adults, to just cry at times.
>
> No one is the perfect parent, and no one has all the answers. If you
> can't accomplish chores or unwind though, there's a problem. And if
> you're letting Dawson dictate all this, he's now dominating the
> situation. Placing the matress on the floor is just the last straw in my
> opinion. You want him to be safe and healthy, but to completely uproot
> your schedule and life, this doesn't seem healthy.
>
> It won't kill Dawson or you if he cries and cries in his crib. Children
> actually require limits and boundries regardless of how they feel or
> what they say and do. Penny has taken to screaming like a night owl when
> she wants her way. We've learned to ignore it even when in public. Once
> she realizes this doesn't get her attention, or her way, she stops. She
> will do it during naptime in her crib too. After she realizes no one is
> coming to let her out though, she lays back down and falls asleep.
>
> I know it's tough, and you enjoy the bonding aspect, but honey, that kid
> is wrapping his little finger around you much too tight, and he has all
> the cards in his hand. You think the crying-it-out method is cruel and
> unpleasant, but in a few years, you won't find it so pleasant when
> Dawson is always demanding his way and refusing to listen to you. This
> doesn't mean he isn't a sweet heart, but he's learning behavior at a
> young age that is ingraining certain behavior and ideas that will stick.
>
> And you mention how much you enjoy the bonding aspect, but what about
> Dawson? Not that he doesn't like mommy time, or isn't learning anything
> from the bonding, but at this point, the bonding seems to be more about
> how the experience is for you, and not about what is best for Dawson.
> You need time apart from him to unwind, relax, do something just for
> yourself, or spend valuable bonding time with your husband. This is all
> just as important as bonding with Dawson. Neither one of you seems
> better for this scenario; maybe trying something new should be
> considered.
>
> And if Dawson is always sleeping with you, it won't be easy to have
> another child! Smile.
>
> I realize numerous methods and ideas for parenting exist. This is my
> opinion, and it's either to be taken or ignored. Do not interpret this
> as me saying you're a bad parent either. We all make mistakes, and we
> all just want the best for our children. I just think you've dug
> yourself a hole that, if continueing, will be difficult to dig out of.
> Take control of the situation, and if Dawson has to cry, it won't kill
> him. You need time for yourself and with your husband. This is my two
> cents, and just an opinion. I have my own parenting issues to deal with;
> we all do. But I've learned from this list that we can all offer some
> wisdom, and we can learn from one another.
>
> Sincerely,
> Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
> Read my blog at: http://blogs.livewellnebraska.com/author/bpollpeter/
>
> "History is not what happened; history is what was written down." The
> Expected One- Kathleen McGowan
>
> Message: 1
> Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:11:53 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "NFB blind parent listserv" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [blparent] co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <002601cc9339$320be100$9623a300$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;       charset="us-ascii"
>
> Hello parents,
>
>
>
> I'd love to hear from those of you who chose to co-sleep with your
> babies. My son Dawson who will be one years old on Halloween has been
> co-sleeping with my husband and I since he was ten months old.  I
> absolutely love the co-sleeping arrangement and in many ways wish I had
> started it earlier.  The only snag that I'm finding is that Dawson used
> to be able and go down in his crib for the first stretch of the night
> which was a couple of hours and then by the time he woke-up I'd be ready
> to go to bed or my husband would just bring him into me to co-sleep. Now
> Dawson doesn't want to do the first stretch on his own and refuses to go
> down without me.  I'm an early to bed person but now not having that few
> hours on my own is difficult.  How do those of you with co-sleeping
> toddlers usually start out your night?  I'm finding that just letting
> Dawson play a little longer in my room with the TV on low helps him
> start to calm for the night and then around 8:30 we can lay down
> together with no stimulation noise or lights on and he'll fall asleep
> quickly.  This isn't giving me any time to unwind for the night though.
> I'm still nursing Dawson so daddy putting him down to bed is out of the
> question since he needs boob to fall asleep and that's not a battle I
> want to start right now especially since breast feeding is so special
> and something both Dawson and I love very much. I'm against cry it out
> methods and want sleep time to continue to be a positive and pleasant
> experience for everyone.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
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> com
>
>
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> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
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> blparent:
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> com
>
>
> _______________________________________________
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> blparent at nfbnet.org
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> blparent:
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> 0tas
> c.com
> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message and any attachments or files
> transmitted with it (collectively, the "Message") are intended only for
> the addressee and may contain information that is privileged,
> proprietary and/or prohibited from disclosure by law or contract. If you
> are not the intended
> recipient: (a) please do not read, copy or retransmit the Message; (b)
> permanently delete and/or destroy all electronic and hard copies of the
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> blparent:
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> 0tasc.com
> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message and any attachments or files
> transmitted with it (collectively, the "Message") are intended only for
> the addressee and may contain information that is privileged,
> proprietary and/or prohibited from disclosure by law or contract. If you
> are not the intended recipient: (a) please do not read, copy or
> retransmit the Message; (b) permanently delete and/or destroy all
> electronic and hard copies of the Message; (c) notify us by return
> email; and (d) you are hereby notified that any dissemination,
> distribution or copying of the Message is strictly prohibited.
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 25
> Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:05:43 -0500
> From: "Michael Baldwin" <mbaldwin at gpcom.net>
> To: "'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID:
> <mailman.17163.1319753050.4395.blparent_nfbnet.org at nfbnet.org>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
>
> I think the theme beds are a waste of money, our toddler bed was from a
> yard sale and is now on the third kid.  Fun maybe, but if money is
> tight, I would go with a plain bed, and theme bedding
>
> Michael
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Pickrell, Rebecca M (TASC)
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 15:11
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> A fun bed won't do squat if the maturity isn't there. Then you've spent
> money on something that won't be used and cannot be used for anything
> else. We did get our daughter some fun sheets for her big girl bed,
> which is a regular twin bed, but that was because she was mentally
> ready. And there was no problem with transition.
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Erin Rumer
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 3:55 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Yes, there are definitely individual factors that don't make co-sleeping
> the best for some families.  Did you get your son a special fun toddler
> bed or convert a convertible crib?  I have a convertible crib but am
> wondering if a fun car bed or something like that wouldn't be better for
> the transition from our family bed to his big boy bed when he's older.
> For now we're just enjoying having Dawson with us.  They grow up too
> fast and I'm just loving him being a baby-new toddler right now.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Chad Allen
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:37 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> I strongly discouraged my wife from co-sleeping at an early age. I had
> no problems with the cradle being in the room but once Harrison went
> from cradle to crib, I worked very hard at not having us co-sleep.
>
> First, I'm a deep sleeper so when Harrison was little, I was concerned
> that I might roll over on him without knowing. Many books reinforced my
> concerns so we avoided the habit at a young age.
>
> When my wife tried co-sleeping after some protest, no one slept and he
> quickly returned to sleeping in his own crib after only a few nights.
>
> Now, Harrison sleeps from 9-11 hours in his bed and at 15 months, we
> converted the crib to a bed. He sleeps in it and does not get out of the
> bed until morning. We have the baby monitor on and we sleep with it on
> and everything works out great.
>
> My wife is quite happy too because she knows her son is a big boy who
> can sleep on his own and we all get the sleep we deserve.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Chad
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Bridgit Pollpeter
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:09 PM
> To: blparent at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Well, looks like I'm going to be the bitch here. LOL Though it's great
> to see our kids grow up and become perceptive and aware, you're letting
> Dawson have the upperhand. He's not only aware of your intention, he's
> made the connection that certain behavior will get him what he wants-
> out of the crib and freedom to either stay awake or roam your room at
> his leisure. It's not processed quite this intelligently, but on a basic
> level, he knows what the situation is and how to respond. You're
> basically catering to his whims now.
>
> My sister did exactly what you're doing, and her kids to this day rule
> the roost. They set their own bedtimes, eat when they want and know how
> to manipulate the situation to get what they want. This was all learned
> at an early age. The oldest at seven is still like this.
>
> Crying is a healthy, natural part of life. Crying doesn't mean they are
> hurt or that you're a bad parent. Penny, at two-years-old, has to cry it
> out for an hour at times before falling asleep. Usually she just plays
> in her bed, but she does cry at times. Nothing will happen to them when
> they cry though, and studies actually show it's healthy for children,
> and adults, to just cry at times.
>
> No one is the perfect parent, and no one has all the answers. If you
> can't accomplish chores or unwind though, there's a problem. And if
> you're letting Dawson dictate all this, he's now dominating the
> situation. Placing the matress on the floor is just the last straw in my
> opinion. You want him to be safe and healthy, but to completely uproot
> your schedule and life, this doesn't seem healthy.
>
> It won't kill Dawson or you if he cries and cries in his crib. Children
> actually require limits and boundries regardless of how they feel or
> what they say and do. Penny has taken to screaming like a night owl when
> she wants her way. We've learned to ignore it even when in public. Once
> she realizes this doesn't get her attention, or her way, she stops. She
> will do it during naptime in her crib too. After she realizes no one is
> coming to let her out though, she lays back down and falls asleep.
>
> I know it's tough, and you enjoy the bonding aspect, but honey, that kid
> is wrapping his little finger around you much too tight, and he has all
> the cards in his hand. You think the crying-it-out method is cruel and
> unpleasant, but in a few years, you won't find it so pleasant when
> Dawson is always demanding his way and refusing to listen to you. This
> doesn't mean he isn't a sweet heart, but he's learning behavior at a
> young age that is ingraining certain behavior and ideas that will stick.
>
> And you mention how much you enjoy the bonding aspect, but what about
> Dawson? Not that he doesn't like mommy time, or isn't learning anything
> from the bonding, but at this point, the bonding seems to be more about
> how the experience is for you, and not about what is best for Dawson.
> You need time apart from him to unwind, relax, do something just for
> yourself, or spend valuable bonding time with your husband. This is all
> just as important as bonding with Dawson. Neither one of you seems
> better for this scenario; maybe trying something new should be
> considered.
>
> And if Dawson is always sleeping with you, it won't be easy to have
> another child! Smile.
>
> I realize numerous methods and ideas for parenting exist. This is my
> opinion, and it's either to be taken or ignored. Do not interpret this
> as me saying you're a bad parent either. We all make mistakes, and we
> all just want the best for our children. I just think you've dug
> yourself a hole that, if continueing, will be difficult to dig out of.
> Take control of the situation, and if Dawson has to cry, it won't kill
> him. You need time for yourself and with your husband. This is my two
> cents, and just an opinion. I have my own parenting issues to deal with;
> we all do. But I've learned from this list that we can all offer some
> wisdom, and we can learn from one another.
>
> Sincerely,
> Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
> Read my blog at: http://blogs.livewellnebraska.com/author/bpollpeter/
>
> "History is not what happened; history is what was written down." The
> Expected One- Kathleen McGowan
>
> Message: 1
> Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:11:53 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "NFB blind parent listserv" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [blparent] co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <002601cc9339$320be100$9623a300$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;       charset="us-ascii"
>
> Hello parents,
>
>
>
> I'd love to hear from those of you who chose to co-sleep with your
> babies. My son Dawson who will be one years old on Halloween has been
> co-sleeping with my husband and I since he was ten months old.  I
> absolutely love the co-sleeping arrangement and in many ways wish I had
> started it earlier.  The only snag that I'm finding is that Dawson used
> to be able and go down in his crib for the first stretch of the night
> which was a couple of hours and then by the time he woke-up I'd be ready
> to go to bed or my husband would just bring him into me to co-sleep. Now
> Dawson doesn't want to do the first stretch on his own and refuses to go
> down without me.  I'm an early to bed person but now not having that few
> hours on my own is difficult.  How do those of you with co-sleeping
> toddlers usually start out your night?  I'm finding that just letting
> Dawson play a little longer in my room with the TV on low helps him
> start to calm for the night and then around 8:30 we can lay down
> together with no stimulation noise or lights on and he'll fall asleep
> quickly.  This isn't giving me any time to unwind for the night though.
> I'm still nursing Dawson so daddy putting him down to bed is out of the
> question since he needs boob to fall asleep and that's not a battle I
> want to start right now especially since breast feeding is so special
> and something both Dawson and I love very much. I'm against cry it out
> methods and want sleep time to continue to be a positive and pleasant
> experience for everyone.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blparent_nfbnet.org/chad%40chadallenma
> gic.
> com
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blparent_nfbnet.org/erinrumer%40gmail.
> com
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blparent_nfbnet.org/rebecca.pickrell%4
> 0tas
> c.com
> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message and any attachments or files
> transmitted with it (collectively, the "Message") are intended only for
> the addressee and may contain information that is privileged,
> proprietary and/or prohibited from disclosure by law or contract. If you
> are not the intended
> recipient: (a) please do not read, copy or retransmit the Message; (b)
> permanently delete and/or destroy all electronic and hard copies of the
> Message; (c) notify us by return email; and (d) you are hereby notified
> that any dissemination, distribution or copying of the Message is
> strictly prohibited.
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blparent_nfbnet.org/mbaldwin%40gpcom.n
> et
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 26
> Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:08:09 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <002001cc94ec$88a7e900$99f7bb00$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
>
> That does sound like the way to go, thanks Michael.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Michael Baldwin
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 2:06 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> I think the theme beds are a waste of money, our toddler bed was from a
> yard sale and is now on the third kid.  Fun maybe, but if money is
> tight, I would go with a plain bed, and theme bedding
>
> Michael
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Pickrell, Rebecca M (TASC)
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 15:11
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> A fun bed won't do squat if the maturity isn't there. Then you've spent
> money on something that won't be used and cannot be used for anything
> else. We did get our daughter some fun sheets for her big girl bed,
> which is a regular twin bed, but that was because she was mentally
> ready. And there was no problem with transition.
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Erin Rumer
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 3:55 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Yes, there are definitely individual factors that don't make co-sleeping
> the best for some families.  Did you get your son a special fun toddler
> bed or convert a convertible crib?  I have a convertible crib but am
> wondering if a fun car bed or something like that wouldn't be better for
> the transition from our family bed to his big boy bed when he's older.
> For now we're just enjoying having Dawson with us.  They grow up too
> fast and I'm just loving him being a baby-new toddler right now.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Chad Allen
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:37 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> I strongly discouraged my wife from co-sleeping at an early age. I had
> no problems with the cradle being in the room but once Harrison went
> from cradle to crib, I worked very hard at not having us co-sleep.
>
> First, I'm a deep sleeper so when Harrison was little, I was concerned
> that I might roll over on him without knowing. Many books reinforced my
> concerns so we avoided the habit at a young age.
>
> When my wife tried co-sleeping after some protest, no one slept and he
> quickly returned to sleeping in his own crib after only a few nights.
>
> Now, Harrison sleeps from 9-11 hours in his bed and at 15 months, we
> converted the crib to a bed. He sleeps in it and does not get out of the
> bed until morning. We have the baby monitor on and we sleep with it on
> and everything works out great.
>
> My wife is quite happy too because she knows her son is a big boy who
> can sleep on his own and we all get the sleep we deserve.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Chad
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Bridgit Pollpeter
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:09 PM
> To: blparent at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Well, looks like I'm going to be the bitch here. LOL Though it's great
> to see our kids grow up and become perceptive and aware, you're letting
> Dawson have the upperhand. He's not only aware of your intention, he's
> made the connection that certain behavior will get him what he wants-
> out of the crib and freedom to either stay awake or roam your room at
> his leisure. It's not processed quite this intelligently, but on a basic
> level, he knows what the situation is and how to respond. You're
> basically catering to his whims now.
>
> My sister did exactly what you're doing, and her kids to this day rule
> the roost. They set their own bedtimes, eat when they want and know how
> to manipulate the situation to get what they want. This was all learned
> at an early age. The oldest at seven is still like this.
>
> Crying is a healthy, natural part of life. Crying doesn't mean they are
> hurt or that you're a bad parent. Penny, at two-years-old, has to cry it
> out for an hour at times before falling asleep. Usually she just plays
> in her bed, but she does cry at times. Nothing will happen to them when
> they cry though, and studies actually show it's healthy for children,
> and adults, to just cry at times.
>
> No one is the perfect parent, and no one has all the answers. If you
> can't accomplish chores or unwind though, there's a problem. And if
> you're letting Dawson dictate all this, he's now dominating the
> situation. Placing the matress on the floor is just the last straw in my
> opinion. You want him to be safe and healthy, but to completely uproot
> your schedule and life, this doesn't seem healthy.
>
> It won't kill Dawson or you if he cries and cries in his crib. Children
> actually require limits and boundries regardless of how they feel or
> what they say and do. Penny has taken to screaming like a night owl when
> she wants her way. We've learned to ignore it even when in public. Once
> she realizes this doesn't get her attention, or her way, she stops. She
> will do it during naptime in her crib too. After she realizes no one is
> coming to let her out though, she lays back down and falls asleep.
>
> I know it's tough, and you enjoy the bonding aspect, but honey, that kid
> is wrapping his little finger around you much too tight, and he has all
> the cards in his hand. You think the crying-it-out method is cruel and
> unpleasant, but in a few years, you won't find it so pleasant when
> Dawson is always demanding his way and refusing to listen to you. This
> doesn't mean he isn't a sweet heart, but he's learning behavior at a
> young age that is ingraining certain behavior and ideas that will stick.
>
> And you mention how much you enjoy the bonding aspect, but what about
> Dawson? Not that he doesn't like mommy time, or isn't learning anything
> from the bonding, but at this point, the bonding seems to be more about
> how the experience is for you, and not about what is best for Dawson.
> You need time apart from him to unwind, relax, do something just for
> yourself, or spend valuable bonding time with your husband. This is all
> just as important as bonding with Dawson. Neither one of you seems
> better for this scenario; maybe trying something new should be
> considered.
>
> And if Dawson is always sleeping with you, it won't be easy to have
> another child! Smile.
>
> I realize numerous methods and ideas for parenting exist. This is my
> opinion, and it's either to be taken or ignored. Do not interpret this
> as me saying you're a bad parent either. We all make mistakes, and we
> all just want the best for our children. I just think you've dug
> yourself a hole that, if continueing, will be difficult to dig out of.
> Take control of the situation, and if Dawson has to cry, it won't kill
> him. You need time for yourself and with your husband. This is my two
> cents, and just an opinion. I have my own parenting issues to deal with;
> we all do. But I've learned from this list that we can all offer some
> wisdom, and we can learn from one another.
>
> Sincerely,
> Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
> Read my blog at: http://blogs.livewellnebraska.com/author/bpollpeter/
>
> "History is not what happened; history is what was written down." The
> Expected One- Kathleen McGowan
>
> Message: 1
> Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:11:53 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "NFB blind parent listserv" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [blparent] co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <002601cc9339$320be100$9623a300$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;       charset="us-ascii"
>
> Hello parents,
>
>
>
> I'd love to hear from those of you who chose to co-sleep with your
> babies. My son Dawson who will be one years old on Halloween has been
> co-sleeping with my husband and I since he was ten months old.  I
> absolutely love the co-sleeping arrangement and in many ways wish I had
> started it earlier.  The only snag that I'm finding is that Dawson used
> to be able and go down in his crib for the first stretch of the night
> which was a couple of hours and then by the time he woke-up I'd be ready
> to go to bed or my husband would just bring him into me to co-sleep. Now
> Dawson doesn't want to do the first stretch on his own and refuses to go
> down without me.  I'm an early to bed person but now not having that few
> hours on my own is difficult.  How do those of you with co-sleeping
> toddlers usually start out your night?  I'm finding that just letting
> Dawson play a little longer in my room with the TV on low helps him
> start to calm for the night and then around 8:30 we can lay down
> together with no stimulation noise or lights on and he'll fall asleep
> quickly.  This isn't giving me any time to unwind for the night though.
> I'm still nursing Dawson so daddy putting him down to bed is out of the
> question since he needs boob to fall asleep and that's not a battle I
> want to start right now especially since breast feeding is so special
> and something both Dawson and I love very much. I'm against cry it out
> methods and want sleep time to continue to be a positive and pleasant
> experience for everyone.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
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>
>
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>
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> blparent:
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> 0tas
> c.com
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> transmitted with it (collectively, the "Message") are intended only for
> the addressee and may contain information that is privileged,
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> are not the intended
> recipient: (a) please do not read, copy or retransmit the Message; (b)
> permanently delete and/or destroy all electronic and hard copies of the
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>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 27
> Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:22:52 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <002401cc94ee$97153ae0$c53fb0a0$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
>
> Yes indeed, we already got the waterproof pad which has saved our
> mattress a time or two already and we'll be definitely doing that for
> his bed as well. We even have a Summer Infant Ultimate waterproof crib
> sheet in his crib that's been a life saver.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Pickrell, Rebecca M (TASC)
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 2:04 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Thank you.
> Dawson may or may not like a toddler bed, but as he isn't shelling out
> the $$$ he doesn't get a vote. You don't gain any functionality that a
> big bed won't give you, plus you can use a big bed a whole heck of a lot
> longer. Only advice I have is get waterproof mattress pads so you don't
> ruin the mattress. You may want to do that for your own bed too since he
> sleeps with you.
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Erin Rumer
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 4:58 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Rebecca, love the idea of fun sheets on the big kid bed when the child
> is ready.  This is a great money saving method to make the toddler's bed
> novel and exciting.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Pickrell, Rebecca M (TASC)
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 1:11 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> A fun bed won't do squat if the maturity isn't there. Then you've spent
> money on something that won't be used and cannot be used for anything
> else. We did get our daughter some fun sheets for her big girl bed,
> which is a regular twin bed, but that was because she was mentally
> ready. And there was no problem with transition.
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Erin Rumer
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 3:55 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Yes, there are definitely individual factors that don't make co-sleeping
> the best for some families.  Did you get your son a special fun toddler
> bed or convert a convertible crib?  I have a convertible crib but am
> wondering if a fun car bed or something like that wouldn't be better for
> the transition from our family bed to his big boy bed when he's older.
> For now we're just enjoying having Dawson with us.  They grow up too
> fast and I'm just loving him being a baby-new toddler right now.
>
> Erin
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Chad Allen
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:37 PM
> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> I strongly discouraged my wife from co-sleeping at an early age. I had
> no problems with the cradle being in the room but once Harrison went
> from cradle to crib, I worked very hard at not having us co-sleep.
>
> First, I'm a deep sleeper so when Harrison was little, I was concerned
> that I might roll over on him without knowing. Many books reinforced my
> concerns so we avoided the habit at a young age.
>
> When my wife tried co-sleeping after some protest, no one slept and he
> quickly returned to sleeping in his own crib after only a few nights.
>
> Now, Harrison sleeps from 9-11 hours in his bed and at 15 months, we
> converted the crib to a bed. He sleeps in it and does not get out of the
> bed until morning. We have the baby monitor on and we sleep with it on
> and everything works out great.
>
> My wife is quite happy too because she knows her son is a big boy who
> can sleep on his own and we all get the sleep we deserve.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Chad
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
> On Behalf Of Bridgit Pollpeter
> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:09 PM
> To: blparent at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
> Well, looks like I'm going to be the bitch here. LOL Though it's great
> to see our kids grow up and become perceptive and aware, you're letting
> Dawson have the upperhand. He's not only aware of your intention, he's
> made the connection that certain behavior will get him what he wants-
> out of the crib and freedom to either stay awake or roam your room at
> his leisure. It's not processed quite this intelligently, but on a basic
> level, he knows what the situation is and how to respond. You're
> basically catering to his whims now.
>
> My sister did exactly what you're doing, and her kids to this day rule
> the roost. They set their own bedtimes, eat when they want and know how
> to manipulate the situation to get what they want. This was all learned
> at an early age. The oldest at seven is still like this.
>
> Crying is a healthy, natural part of life. Crying doesn't mean they are
> hurt or that you're a bad parent. Penny, at two-years-old, has to cry it
> out for an hour at times before falling asleep. Usually she just plays
> in her bed, but she does cry at times. Nothing will happen to them when
> they cry though, and studies actually show it's healthy for children,
> and adults, to just cry at times.
>
> No one is the perfect parent, and no one has all the answers. If you
> can't accomplish chores or unwind though, there's a problem. And if
> you're letting Dawson dictate all this, he's now dominating the
> situation. Placing the matress on the floor is just the last straw in my
> opinion. You want him to be safe and healthy, but to completely uproot
> your schedule and life, this doesn't seem healthy.
>
> It won't kill Dawson or you if he cries and cries in his crib. Children
> actually require limits and boundries regardless of how they feel or
> what they say and do. Penny has taken to screaming like a night owl when
> she wants her way. We've learned to ignore it even when in public. Once
> she realizes this doesn't get her attention, or her way, she stops. She
> will do it during naptime in her crib too. After she realizes no one is
> coming to let her out though, she lays back down and falls asleep.
>
> I know it's tough, and you enjoy the bonding aspect, but honey, that kid
> is wrapping his little finger around you much too tight, and he has all
> the cards in his hand. You think the crying-it-out method is cruel and
> unpleasant, but in a few years, you won't find it so pleasant when
> Dawson is always demanding his way and refusing to listen to you. This
> doesn't mean he isn't a sweet heart, but he's learning behavior at a
> young age that is ingraining certain behavior and ideas that will stick.
>
> And you mention how much you enjoy the bonding aspect, but what about
> Dawson? Not that he doesn't like mommy time, or isn't learning anything
> from the bonding, but at this point, the bonding seems to be more about
> how the experience is for you, and not about what is best for Dawson.
> You need time apart from him to unwind, relax, do something just for
> yourself, or spend valuable bonding time with your husband. This is all
> just as important as bonding with Dawson. Neither one of you seems
> better for this scenario; maybe trying something new should be
> considered.
>
> And if Dawson is always sleeping with you, it won't be easy to have
> another child! Smile.
>
> I realize numerous methods and ideas for parenting exist. This is my
> opinion, and it's either to be taken or ignored. Do not interpret this
> as me saying you're a bad parent either. We all make mistakes, and we
> all just want the best for our children. I just think you've dug
> yourself a hole that, if continueing, will be difficult to dig out of.
> Take control of the situation, and if Dawson has to cry, it won't kill
> him. You need time for yourself and with your husband. This is my two
> cents, and just an opinion. I have my own parenting issues to deal with;
> we all do. But I've learned from this list that we can all offer some
> wisdom, and we can learn from one another.
>
> Sincerely,
> Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
> Read my blog at: http://blogs.livewellnebraska.com/author/bpollpeter/
>
> "History is not what happened; history is what was written down." The
> Expected One- Kathleen McGowan
>
> Message: 1
> Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:11:53 -0700
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> To: "NFB blind parent listserv" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [blparent] co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <002601cc9339$320be100$9623a300$@gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;       charset="us-ascii"
>
> Hello parents,
>
>
>
> I'd love to hear from those of you who chose to co-sleep with your
> babies. My son Dawson who will be one years old on Halloween has been
> co-sleeping with my husband and I since he was ten months old.  I
> absolutely love the co-sleeping arrangement and in many ways wish I had
> started it earlier.  The only snag that I'm finding is that Dawson used
> to be able and go down in his crib for the first stretch of the night
> which was a couple of hours and then by the time he woke-up I'd be ready
> to go to bed or my husband would just bring him into me to co-sleep. Now
> Dawson doesn't want to do the first stretch on his own and refuses to go
> down without me.  I'm an early to bed person but now not having that few
> hours on my own is difficult.  How do those of you with co-sleeping
> toddlers usually start out your night?  I'm finding that just letting
> Dawson play a little longer in my room with the TV on low helps him
> start to calm for the night and then around 8:30 we can lay down
> together with no stimulation noise or lights on and he'll fall asleep
> quickly.  This isn't giving me any time to unwind for the night though.
> I'm still nursing Dawson so daddy putting him down to bed is out of the
> question since he needs boob to fall asleep and that's not a battle I
> want to start right now especially since breast feeding is so special
> and something both Dawson and I love very much. I'm against cry it out
> methods and want sleep time to continue to be a positive and pleasant
> experience for everyone.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blparent_nfbnet.org/chad%40chadallenma
> gic.
> com
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
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> com
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> blparent mailing list
> blparent at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> blparent:
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> 0tas
> c.com
> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message and any attachments or files
> transmitted with it (collectively, the "Message") are intended only for
> the addressee and may contain information that is privileged,
> proprietary and/or prohibited from disclosure by law or contract. If you
> are not the intended
> recipient: (a) please do not read, copy or retransmit the Message; (b)
> permanently delete and/or destroy all electronic and hard copies of the
> Message; (c) notify us by return email; and (d) you are hereby notified
> that any dissemination, distribution or copying of the Message is
> strictly prohibited.
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> _______________________________________________
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>
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> transmitted with it (collectively, the "Message") are intended only for
> the addressee and may contain information that is privileged,
> proprietary and/or prohibited from disclosure by law or contract. If you
> are not the intended
> recipient: (a) please do not read, copy or retransmit the Message; (b)
> permanently delete and/or destroy all electronic and hard copies of the
> Message; (c) notify us by return email; and (d) you are hereby notified
> that any dissemination, distribution or copying of the Message is
> strictly prohibited.
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>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 28
> Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:03:43 -0600
> From: "Jo Elizabeth Pinto" <jopinto at msn.com>
> To: "NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
> Message-ID: <SNT116-DS8374EB44671B410695E96ACD20 at phx.gbl>
> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
> reply-type=original
>
> Oh, I had to laugh at that!
>
> While I do believe that toddlers need to begin to learn how to calm
> themselves down, often there's nothing like taking a few extra minutes
> as
> the comforting grown-up to cuddle and make the world right.  Soon
> enough,
> making the world right won't be so easy, we might as well do it while we
>
> can.
>
> Jo Elizabeth
>
> "How far you go in life depends on you being tender with the young,
> compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant
> of
> the weak and the strong.  Because someday in life you will have been all
> of
> these."--George Washington Carver, 1864-1943, American scientist
>
> --------------------------------------------------
> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 2:58 PM
> To: "'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>
>> Right on, girlfriend!
>>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
>
>> On Behalf Of Pickrell, Rebecca M (TASC)
>> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 12:56 PM
>> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
>> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>>
>> My husband was big into wanting our daughter to self-soothe. I wasn't
>> because as I tried to explain to him "We have the means to physically
>> get up and do what we want to calm down be that food, drink or read or
>
>> whatever. She doesn't".
>> He thought I coddled her too much. So, I decided to demonstrate my
> point.
>> I got him really into a certain mood and when he wanted to complete
> the
>> deal
>> I pulled away and said "Time for you to learn to self-soothe".
>>
>> End of discussion
>>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
>
>> On Behalf Of Jennith Lucas
>> Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2011 10:50 AM
>> To: NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List
>> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>>
>> I agree with Rebecca. It really depends on each family. What works for
>> yours
>> may not work for mine.
>>
>> I think it also depends on your night time goals. For me, I'd like
>> some
>> time
>> with husband, some time to un wind, and maybe a chance to do some last
>> minute tasks. I don't need my son to sleep through the night. When we
> do
>> sleep, I'd like to easily be able to get him back to sleep, and I'd
> like
>> to
>> make night time enjoyable for everyone. My son wants a snack in the
> night
>> and the security of knowing mom and dad are there. Co-sleeping is how
> we
>> meet our goals.
>>
>> Just like adults, babies and children communicate differently and have
>
>> different needs. It's the job of the parent to decide what that
>> communication means. On Oct 27, 2011 8:03 AM, "Pickrell, Rebecca M
>> (TASC)" < REBECCA.PICKRELL at tasc.com> wrote:
>>
>>> Much of this depends on the dynamics of your family.
>>> I couldn't sleep well with husband and daughter in bed, yet there
>>> were and still are nights when she and/or I need the human contact of
>
>>> cuddling. Husband gets to camp out downstairs which he likes.
>>>
>>> If you didn't, this arangement wouldn't work.
>>>
>>> And sleeping on your own has nothing to do with being big or little.
>>> We all need human contact. It's why people get married so they can
>>> fulfill human needs that would in most cases be inappropriate to
>>> fulfill in any other fashion. At 15 months, my daughter didn't
>>> havethe maturity to stay in a bed. She didn't graduate until she was
>>> about three. The mental ability simply wasn't there.
>>> She also hasn't graduated to a booster seat because the ability to
>>> stay still just isn't present yet.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org
>>> [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
>>> On Behalf Of Chad Allen
>>> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 8:37 PM
>>> To: 'NFBnet Blind Parents Mailing List'
>>> Subject: Re: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>>>
>>> I strongly discouraged my wife from co-sleeping at an early age. I
>>> had no problems with the cradle being in the room but once Harrison
>>> went from cradle to crib, I worked very hard at not having us
>>> co-sleep.
>>>
>>> First, I'm a deep sleeper so when Harrison was little, I was
>>> concerned that I might roll over on him without knowing. Many books
>>> reinforced my concerns so we avoided the habit at a young age.
>>>
>>> When my wife tried co-sleeping after some protest, no one slept and
>>> he quickly returned to sleeping in his own crib after only a few
>>> nights.
>>>
>>> Now, Harrison sleeps from 9-11 hours in his bed and at 15 months, we
>>> converted the crib to a bed. He sleeps in it and does not get out of
>>> the bed until morning. We have the baby monitor on and we sleep with
>>> it on and everything works out great.
>>>
>>> My wife is quite happy too because she knows her son is a big boy who
>
>>> can sleep on his own and we all get the sleep we deserve.
>>>
>>> Hope this helps.
>>>
>>> Chad
>>>
>>>
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org
>>> [mailto:blparent-bounces at nfbnet.org]
>>> On Behalf Of Bridgit Pollpeter
>>> Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 5:09 PM
>>> To: blparent at nfbnet.org
>>> Subject: [blparent] Co-sleeping with toddler
>>>
>>> Well, looks like I'm going to be the bitch here. LOL Though it's
>>> great to see our kids grow up and become perceptive and aware, you're
>
>>> letting Dawson have the upperhand. He's not only aware of your
>>> intention, he's made the connection that certain behavior will get
>>> him what he wants- out of the crib and freedom to either stay awake
>>> or roam your room at his leisure. It's not processed quite this
>>> intelligently, but on a basic level, he knows what the situation is
>>> and how to respond. You're basically catering to his whims now.
>>>
>>> My sister did exactly what you're doing, and her kids to this day
>>> rule the roost. They set their own bedtimes, eat when they want and
>>> know how to manipulate the situation to get what they want. This was
>>> all learned at an early age. The oldest at seven is still like this.
>>>
>>> Crying is a healthy, natural part of life. Crying doesn't mean they
>>> are hurt or that you're a bad parent. Penny, at two-years-old, has to
>
>>> cry it out for an hour at times before falling asleep. Usually she
>>> just plays in her bed, but she does cry at times. Nothing will happen
>
>>> to them when they cry though, and studies actually show it's healthy
>>> for children, and adults, to just cry at times.
>>>
>>> No one is the perfect parent, and no one has all the answers. If you
>>> can't accomplish chores or unwind though, there's a problem. And if
>>> you're letting Dawson dictate all this, he's now dominating the
>>> situation. Placing the matress on the floor is just the last straw in
>
>>> my opinion. You want him to be safe and healthy, but to completely
>>> uproot your schedule and life, this doesn't seem healthy.
>>>
>>> It won't kill Dawson or you if he cries and cries in his crib.
>>> Children actually require limits and boundries regardless of how they
>
>>> feel or what they say and do. Penny has taken to screaming like a
>>> night owl when she wants her way. We've learned to ignore it even
>>> when in public. Once she realizes this doesn't get her attention, or
>>> her way, she stops. She will do it during naptime in her crib too.
>>> After she realizes no one is coming to let her out though, she lays
>>> back down
>> and falls asleep.
>>>
>>> I know it's tough, and you enjoy the bonding aspect, but honey, that
>>> kid is wrapping his little finger around you much too tight, and he
>>> has all the cards in his hand. You think the crying-it-out method is
>>> cruel and unpleasant, but in a few years, you won't find it so
>>> pleasant when Dawson is always demanding his way and refusing to
>>> listen to you. This doesn't mean he isn't a sweet heart, but he's
>>> learning behavior at a young age that is ingraining certain behavior
>>> and
>> ideas that will stick.
>>>
>>> And you mention how much you enjoy the bonding aspect, but what about
>
>>> Dawson? Not that he doesn't like mommy time, or isn't learning
>>> anything from the bonding, but at this point, the bonding seems to be
>
>>> more about how the experience is for you, and not about what is best
>>> for
>> Dawson.
>>> You need time apart from him to unwind, relax, do something just for
>>> yourself, or spend valuable bonding time with your husband. This is
>>> all just as important as bonding with Dawson. Neither one of you
>>> seems better for this scenario; maybe trying something new should be
>>> considered.
>>>
>>> And if Dawson is always sleeping with you, it won't be easy to have
>>> another child! Smile.
>>>
>>> I realize numerous methods and ideas for parenting exist. This is my
>>> opinion, and it's either to be taken or ignored. Do not interpret
>>> this as me saying you're a bad parent either. We all make mistakes,
>>> and we all just want the best for our children. I just think you've
>>> dug yourself a hole that, if continueing, will be difficult to dig
>>> out of. Take control of the situation, and if Dawson has to cry, it
>>> won't kill him. You need time for yourself and with your husband.
>>> This is my two cents, and just an opinion. I have my own parenting
>>> issues to deal with; we all do. But I've learned from this list that
>>> we can all offer some wisdom, and we can learn from one another.
>>>
>>> Sincerely,
>>> Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
>>> Read my blog at: http://blogs.livewellnebraska.com/author/bpollpeter/
>>>
>>> "History is not what happened; history is what was written down." The
>
>>> Expected One- Kathleen McGowan
>>>
>>> Message: 1
>>> Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:11:53 -0700
>>> From: "Erin Rumer" <erinrumer at gmail.com>
>>> To: "NFB blind parent listserv" <blparent at nfbnet.org>
>>> Subject: [blparent] co-sleeping with toddler
>>> Message-ID: <002601cc9339$320be100$9623a300$@gmail.com>
>>> Content-Type: text/plain;       charset="us-ascii"
>>>
>>> Hello parents,
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> I'd love to hear from those of you who chose to co-sleep with your
>>> babies. My son Dawson who will be one years old on Halloween has been
>
>>> co-sleeping with my husband and I since he was ten months old.  I
>>> absolutely love the co-sleeping arrangement and in many ways wish I
>>> had started it earlier.  The only snag that I'm finding is that
>>> Dawson used to be able and go down in his crib for the first stretch
>>> of the night which was a couple of hours and then by the time he
>>> woke-up I'd be ready to go to bed or my husband would just bring him
>>> into me to
>> co-sleep.
>>> Now Dawson doesn't want to do the first stretch on his own and
>>> refuses to go down without me.  I'm an early to bed person but now
>>> not having that few hours on my own is difficult.  How do those of
>>> you with co-sleeping toddlers usually start out your night?  I'm
>>> finding that just letting Dawson play a little longer in my room with
>
>>> the TV on low helps him start to calm for the night and then around
>>> 8:30 we can lay down together with no stimulation noise or lights on
>>> and he'll fall asleep quickly.  This isn't giving me any time to
>>> unwind for the night though.  I'm still nursing Dawson so daddy
>>> putting him down to bed is out of the question since he needs boob to
>
>>> fall asleep and that's not a battle I want to start right now
>>> especially since breast feeding is so special and something both
>>> Dawson and I love very much.  I'm against cry it out methods and want
>
>>> sleep time to continue to be a positive and pleasant experience for
>>> everyone.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>>
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
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