Is co-sleeping with a 3-year old still okay?
< 1 min read
My husband and I are contemplating our 3-year-old girl sleeping in her own bedroom. We are still co-sleeping and we think that it is about time for her to move and sleep on her own. Our room is not that big so we feel that we are already crowded sleeping in one bed. But the thing is, we always struggle to open up about this topic with her because we feel that sooner than later, she will choose to sleep on her own and we should just enjoy this moment while it lasts. After all, kids grow up and they will definitely move out in no time. What are your thoughts about co-sleeping a 3-year-old? Is it about time to train her to sleep alone or should we just let her be? ![]() |
♥ 0 |
Answers (4)

I'm writing this as my 7- and 5-year-old are in my bed! This doesn't happen often, but I let it fly when it does. I think your daughter will eventually want her own space. With that being said, you may want your own space, too! These milestones are hard and with each transition, you move further away from the baby stage. I struggle with it, but I embrace their growing independence and a good night's sleep! If you aren't getting enough sleep, or personal time with your partner, it may be worth considering having her shift out of your bed. It doesn't need to be a drastic change. Maybe she could sleep on a mattress on your floor for a bit to ease into it. Good luck!


Personally, I also don't mind about our toddler sleeping in our bed and as mentioned above, I feel that she will move to her own bed when ready. I do like the ideas posted above about the preparation for the transition and making the 'big girl' bed something exciting for them too. I think it really comes down to parent preference about sleeping arrangements in the end as long as you have patience and be gentle in the transition with your child.


I think this is only an issue if you and your husband think it is an issue. I have a 10 year old who still sleeps in our bed most nights. She knows that she needs to go to bed in her own bed (we do need some adult time, of course) and she usually comes in sometime after midnight. Honestly, I love it. I know she is secure and she is such a bright, kind and awesome human that I know its not doing her any damage. I know that one day this will stop and I will definitely miss waking up next to her.


I feel that a 3-year-old can begin to sleep in her own bed. Who knows unless you give it a try?
By making it a "big girl" event, she very well may be excited about the prospect of sleeping in her big girl bed by herself.
Set the tone by talking about your thoughts, reading books on the topic, and making her room and bed a special place. She can be a part of the magic and excitement of the move by helping to decorate (or freshen up) her room to accommodate her sleeping by herself.
A cool nightlight, maybe a princess canopy over her bed, and a new "lovey" sleep stuffed animal will help set the mood. New PJs of her choice and a fun book about sleeping in her room will certainly help in the transition.
This book, A Big Kid Bed is Coming! (How to Transition and Keep Your Toddler in Their Bed) has ranked well on Amazon.
You may need to work at the transition over time and expect some setbacks but rest assured that your child will be fine.
Good luck!
