Tips from the Trenches: A Guide to Practical Parenting

I have to confess that I always though people who chose to "co-sleep" with their kids were doing it because it was the easiest thing to do. Saved all the hassle of trying to keep the kids quiet in their cribs. Parenting can be done while lying down all cozy in the parent's own bed. I was shocked at the lack of aforesight about what they would do when they didn't want the kids in their bed anymore.

After sharing a bed with my nearly 6-year old son for 4 nights now, I'm rethinking my position. It is torture. First, there is no actual sleeping going on. Second, the acrobatics is enough to drive me insane. Four nights of kicking, thrashing, snuggling, breathing....all while I'm trying to get one peaceful night's sleep. Third, parenting while cozy in bed is unrealistic as there is more than just you kicking the covers off each night.

Now I know, all those co-sleeping parents aren't actually sleeping. They are parenting. They are tired warriors trying to do the best they can for their kids and they are largely sacrificing their own sleep and peace in the process. Hail to the patient! Co-sleeping is NOT for sissies.