Any parent of a child who uses a floor bed knows the child decides where they are going to sleep. The child can sleep on the floor if they want. They can sleep on the bed if they want. They can sleep half in half out if they want. They decide. The idea is the bed is comfortable and warm so the child will generally want to sleep there.
We don't use baby gates and our bedroom doors are always open so Otis can also sleep in the big bed if he wants. It's his choice, he can come and go as he wants. If he feels like he wants or needs extra support during the night I am there for him. I know it's not going to last forever and possibly not much longer so I am soaking up every moment. There are so many reasons why I love sleeping with my toddler:
- I can hear his gentle rhythmic breathing, nothing is more precious.
- He is so warm and cuddly.
- Some nights he likes to sleep up close, he must feel safe and secure sleeping next to me like this.
- If he's unwell I can check on him frequently without losing too much sleep.
- If I want to check on him I can just open my eyes or reach out my hand.
- I get to hear his soft whispers as he resettles or sleep talks.
- Children grow so fast, I feel like I can watch him sleep and take it all in.
Otis isn't night weaned so it's easier to feed him at night when he's in bed with me. Night weaning might be the turning point, when he decides he'd rather sleep in his own bed all night. There's plenty of time for that.
There is much discussion around about breastfeeding, co-sleeping and Montessori. I am providing an environment that meets my child's developmental needs. I don't feel there is a conflict. Montessori parenting and attachment parenting? Yes.
