Parenting Kindly

Toddlers are famous for sneaking into your bed at 2 a.m., but does co-sleeping mean you’re doing it wrong? Not at all.

If your toddler insists on curling up beside you night after night, you’re far from alone. Whether it started during infancy or became the norm after a string of sleepless nights, co-sleeping with toddlers is more common than people admit. Still, it comes with mixed emotions: some nights feel cozy and others feel like you haven’t slept in years.

So how do you know if it’s working? And if it’s not, what can help?

Let’s break down what co-sleeping really looks like, what’s normal, and how to set up boundaries and habits that keep everyone safe and sane.

What Co-Sleeping Actually Means (And Why Families Do It)

Co-sleeping simply means sleeping close to your child. For some families, it’s bed-sharing; for others, it might be a toddler bed pushed next to the parent’s. Many parents turn to co-sleeping out of necessity—night wakings, separation anxiety, or just pure exhaustion.

And here’s the truth: If it’s working for your family and you’re getting enough rest, it’s okay.

It’s also okay if it’s not working and you’re ready for a change.

Common Struggles with Co-Sleeping

If you’re feeling unsure, here are a few signs co-sleeping might need a tweak:

• You’re not sleeping well. Constant kicks, wiggles, or middle-of-the-night tantrums can wear you down.
• Your toddler can’t sleep without you. Every nap, bedtime, or night waking depends on you being right there.
• You want your bed back. Wanting personal space is valid, even if you love the cuddles.
• It’s causing tension with your partner. Sleep routines affect the whole household.

Tips for Safer, More Peaceful Co-Sleeping

If you choose to co-sleep, here are a few ideas to make it safer and more restful:

• Create a sleep-friendly environment. Keep pillows, comforters, and stuffed animals minimal. A firm mattress and a toddler-safe bed rail can help prevent accidents.
• Establish a consistent bedtime routine. Bath, books, and a snuggle signal it’s time to wind down, even if you’re sharing space.
• Use the “nesting” method. Some parents create a floor bed setup where everyone has space, especially helpful for toddlers who move a lot.
• Try gradually transitioning. If you want your bed back, consider starting with a mattress on your floor, then moving your child into their own space in stages.
• Talk about it during the day. Toddlers process things best when it’s not the middle of the night. Read books about sleep and reassure them they’re safe.

When It’s Time to Transition

If co-sleeping worked for a season but now it’s feeling hard, it’s okay to shift. Here’s what can help:

• Talk with your toddler about a new sleep space before you begin.
• Let them help choose a special blanket or pillow for their new bed.
• Stay nearby at first, even a chair by their door can be comforting.
• Be patient. Transitions take time and consistency.

A Few Helpful Products (If You Need Them)

Not necessary, but if you’re looking for tools to support co-sleeping or transitioning away from it, these are parent favorites:

• Bed Rail: The Regalo Swing Down Bed Rail helps keep toddlers from rolling out without trapping them in.
• Floor Mattress: The Milliard Tri-Fold Mattress is great for floor setups and easy to stash away later.
• Night Light: The Hatch Rest+ makes a gentle glow and white noise combo that toddlers love.

Final Thoughts

Co-sleeping is one of those topics where everyone has an opinion, but your family is what matters most. If you and your toddler are rested and happy, you’re doing just fine. If it’s time for a change, there’s no shame in gently shifting your routine.

Whether it’s a season or your family’s long-term style, what counts is that everyone feels safe, connected, and rested.