Let me just preface this post by saying that this is NOT a judgement on those parents that have successfully implemented the Babywise program, but rather to share what goes through my head each time I attempt to let Jax cry it out.
Jax is 5 months old now! He is still nursing (we are going to start rice milk when Tim gets home tomorrow :)). He smiles, laughs, rolls over, and is almost sitting up alone. He sleeps in his crib. On occasion, he will got down for a nap on his own. But for the most part, I put him to sleep by rocking him.
Yes, this is time consuming. Yes, this can be frustrating. But I can't bring myself to let him cry for longer than 30 minutes.
Don't we all just want a little cuddling every once in a while? Isn't this the only time in his life where someone will rock him to sleep? Is it bad for him to know that someone is always there for him?
I know I can't smother him, and part of being a parent is helping them become independent. Can it wait until they are old enough to understand and they know their basic needs are met? Aren't there other ways to teach your children the world isn't centered on them?
I just think it is really sad when kids stop crying because they know that no one is coming. However, will I become a rocking robot and how long will this commitment last???
Oh, the dilemmas of parenthood!
Can't wait for Tim to get back tomorrow!
Thanksgiving at Sundance!
11 years ago
You are so cute! And Jaxson is so darn cute! I never read Babywise, but I did let both my kids learn to fall asleep on their own by crying. It has been great for us, but I know it is not for everyone. You need to do what is best for you. I do think that we've missed out on the bonding / cuddling time you get while rocking your child to sleep. You're right, it wont last forever. Not to mention the convenience of your baby falling asleep in your arms anywhere you're at.
ReplyDeleteThe dilemmas of parenthood :)
Jaxon is SO cute! I love those dimples! Although Avery is only 2 months old, I'm struggling with this too. I love to rock her to sleep and I love when she falls asleep in my arms. When you get this all figured out, let me know! (Can't we somehow have the best of both worlds?)
ReplyDelete