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Let There Be Light
Thursday, March 24, 2011 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
The great thing about parenthood is that it is never boring.
The bad thing about about parenthood is that it is never boring.
Every age and stage seems to bring an adventure. There is the excitement of first smiles, then coos, first steps, then learning to use the potty, and, around the same time, transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed.
We've recently *conquered* the move to the toddler bed. Have you made this move yet?
Like most transitions, we eased into this one with the kiddo. We sprung for the "Dora" bed with its pink frame and Dora and Boots' smiling faces which instantly won her over. I couldn't let go of the crib so easily. So, for days, both beds remained.
After about a week, I realized she had made the transition and it was time I did as well. It was time to take down the crib. Sigh.
Just when I got used to the fact that she was sleeping well in her new bed, I think she decided we needed a new challenge. Ugh.
This week, it's about the light being on. All. Night.
When it comes to little things - like lights being left on - I remind myself, "really, what IS the big deal?"
I've decided it's okay for the light to stay on. It's okay, that is, until I'm off to bed.
Then, I sneak in and switch it off.
There's only one problem with this. The kid has an automatic sensor that seems to sense when the light has been turned off. It doesn't sound its alarm immediately though; it waits until I have just settled in and fallen asleep myself. Grrr...
Next up, there's the yell from her room. The kind of yell that propels me out of bed and instantaneously into her room.
"What is it?," I sweetly mutter.
"Light," she responds.
The first few times I tried to explain why we don't need lights in the night.
I've tried to provide alternatives (child development experts agree, choices ARE good
).
I then give up. After all, it's 3am and I am tired.
The light comes back on. It stays on. I return to bed.
When it comes to our kiddos, sometimes, it's their way and other times it has to be ours.
What battles are worth fighting and what are worth letting go?
Little things - like lights - I often remind myself will pass.
What she needs today, she may not need tomorrow.
So, as for tonight, let there be light, and (please) let us all sleep tight.
