5. EXPRESS FLEXIBILITY
No matter how many thousands of examples of our preferred life/parenting/working methods exist out there, we never know how things will work until we try. Never. Ever. I also plan on extended breastfeeding. But who knows? I don't expect it and will do everything I can, but sometimes, on very rare occasions, breastfeeding is truly physically impossible. What then?
Though I’m a little hard-pressed to think of reasons why co-sleeping might become an unavailable choice for my family (perhaps I’ll be suddenly required to take tranquilizers?), anything is possible.
So, if our family by chance persists in challenging the idea, I’ll remember that it’s a goal and we’re going to see how it works for us, and just say that openly. It is after all about what works for our family, not about applying rigid ideas and expectations in a vacuum. And no need to make a big fight out of it with people we love.
HELPFUL PHRASES TO MEMORIZE AS BACKUP
Here are a few simple, direct phrases I’m suggesting to myself and my partner (with links to helpful articles that I realize may also come in handy with the fam if K.I.S.S is not foolproof)…
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“Co-sleeping is known to reduce SIDS.” (Safety concern, check.)
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“We’re following medical advice on bed-sharing/sleeping together safely." (Doctor example, check.)
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“I won’t have to get out of bed to nurse at night, so we’ll all sleep better.” (Sleep concern, check.)
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“Co-sleeping works for a lot of my close friends and they have awesome kids, and are happy parents.” (Personal example, check.)
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“Thank you. I really love that our family is so important to you.” (Appreciation, check.)
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“You know, this is something we want to try and if it works for our family, great! If it doesn’t, your advice will really come in handy!” (Flexibility, check.)
In a perfect world, this simplicity will keep things clean, “easy” and peaceful. But who knows until you try, right? I’m in the process of memorizing no. 5 above in regards to this strategy itself and just practicing learning as I go (the parenting training has begun).
Have some of these approaches worked for you? Did any bomb? Others you’ve tried with success? Please share your advice and insights below, thank you!
Your advice is welcome - consider it solicited!