Happy Wednesday,

My wife is approaching a significant milestone in the next two weeks - our daughter will have been out of her longer than she was growing inside her. This might not seem significant, but in looking back on the last nine months it’s crazy to think about how much I’ve changed as a person and we’ve grown as partners. And she tells me the past 40 weeks have gone a lot faster than the previous 40…

Also, please join me in sending our best vibes to a pair of readers who are currently in the delivery room. We’re thinking about you!

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One Big Idea

The Complex Relationship Between Parenthood and Sleep

A common initiation rite into parenthood is enduring sleepless nights, with society perpetuating the narrative that "good parents" somehow have infants who sleep soundly. While expecting parents are often flooded with advice and tools promising a perfect night's sleep for their babies, the reality is far more nuanced. Sleep has transformed from being seen as a natural physiological process to an emblem of parental prowess, perpetuating guilt and anxiety among those who can't seem to "crack the code." Yet, the hard truth is that infants and toddlers have varied sleep patterns. Factors like developmental stages, health, and separation anxiety come into play, and expecting a uniform 7pm to 7am sleep schedule is not only unrealistic but can also be biologically unsound. For example, it's entirely normal and healthy for babies to wake up for nighttime breastfeeding sessions. But the burgeoning industry of sleep consultants, along with societal expectations, tends to sideline these nuances.

Takeaway: While the pursuit of a peaceful night can be all-consuming for new parents, it's essential to remember that sleep habits vary and evolve. Sleep is a biological process, and a one-size-fits-all approach isn't always conducive to an infant's well-being. Instead of giving in to pressures or feeling shame, embracing flexibility and understanding a child's unique needs might be the best route. The journey of parenthood is riddled with unpredictable moments, and the acceptance of relinquishing control can be a liberating lesson in itself. Sleep challenges are just a phase, and with time, patience, and love, they too shall pass.

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❝

By emphasizing how few summers we’ll have with our children, it just ups the ante on how special they have to be

~ Sarah Whiteley

Time(out) for Memes