Bedtime Battle? 
Finding out who's in charge
by: Catherine Frederick

Tyler has been in his big boy bed since he was just shy of 2 years old. It may sound early to some of you but I was growing worried that my ever growing son would soon learn to throw himself over, and out of his crib sending us straight to the ER. I opted for the big boy bed, the removal of the door to his room and the installation of a safety gate. Thankfully, there were no issues with him transitioning from the crib or adjusting to his new bed.

The problem is that Tyler tends to disagree with mom and dad over what time he is to be “in bed”. It started out around 8:30- then moved to 9:00, then 9:30. These days, we are lucky to have him asleep by 10:00 pm. He feel like if we are not asleep, why should he be?

To prepare for sleep, Ty needs: comfy pajamas, something to drink (usually more than one), a movie, usually the Wiggles, his stuffed fire dog, his stuffed dog Bodie, Dorothy the Dinosaur, and Mommy. Yes, Mommy. We… well ok I, have created a monster.

I began lying down with him when he got his new bed- you know, so he wouldn’t be scared. Well, I am still lying down with him- every night. I can’t remember the last time I was able to lie on the couch and enjoy an evening filled with snuggles on the couch with my hubby, conversation and an hour of Grey’s Anatomy. Thank goodness for DVR.

Occasionally he’ll allow dad to lie down with him, but usually this just prolongs the inevitable when I have to come to his bedside around 9:30 & take over. I have many people who tell me, “just let him cry”. Listen closely people, “NO”! I cannot do it - no matter what Meredith and Dr. McDreamy happen to be doing at that moment. I simply cannot bear to leave my baby screaming for me while I eat bon bons on the couch- or do laundry.

I admit, I do miss the “hubby snuggle time”, but love this time together with my little man. It’s a special time of the day when all is quiet and he is still- and we are together. Whenever I am lying there with him and I feel like I should heed the advice of others and walk out of his room leaving him there to cry, I recite my favorite poem. Enjoy and sleep tight. 

MY LITTLE BOY
One day you will be a man, so let me cuddle you while I can. Your little hand grips mine tight, while you fight sleep with all your might. But I don't mind these wakeful hours, this time together that's all ours. 
When you're a man I'll hold your child, and remember this with a gentle smile. 
Because time goes by so terribly fast, I'll take this time and make it last.

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