If possible, wait until all kids are sleep trained & sleeping great. (Prevents them from waking each other).
Ideally, your youngest is 12+ months.
Sharing a bedroom can bring up emotions ranging from excitement (for them) to stress (for parents). Older kids might feel frustrated sharing a room with a younger sibling.
💗 What to do:
For this transition to go smoothly, acknowledge your children’s feelings while staying calm & confident. Mirror the way you want them to feel.
Even if they’re young, kids pick up on our stress. So, model your confidence & excitement & they will be reassured that this transition will be ok.
It can provide comfort & security for your kids when they share a room & can be a great way to strengthen their relationship.
Younger kids can start by napping in the room, in a travel crib.
As naps progress, move your little one to the bedroom for nights.
Making the change on the weekend can be great in case you have a rough night & need to recuperate the next day.
Control the environment by having a sleep-friendly bedroom, a relaxing bedtime routine, & no distractions (like toys) in the bedroom.
Make sure your kiddos are TIRED at bedtime & let them chat until they fall asleep. As long as they’re not getting out of bed, this is pretty normal for little kids.
Plan an earlier Lights Out Time if it becomes a habit. Don’t give them the attention & power struggle they may be looking for. Stay unemotional. Set the scene for tired kiddos & a relaxing bedroom & see what happens.
Like all transitions, it will take a few weeks for your kids to get used to sleeping in the same room. Over time, they will sleep through each other’s wake-ups & noises.
Don’t jump ship if the first 2 nights don’t go well. Keep your consistent routine, & put them to bed EARLY so they have time to get the fun out & fall asleep at a reasonable hour.
Do YOUR kids share a bedroom? Comment your child’s age to get a free guide!
