The age at which children begin to sleep alone depends, like almost everything that has to do with development, on each particular case. However, it is considered that this transition process usually occurs between three and six years. While the fact that the child does not fully comply with these estimated times should not be a warning sign, some parents may become distressed by the possibility that their child may be having some type of difficulty.
During their first years of life, children become accustomed to sleeping in the company, generally with their parents or siblings. However, at a certain point in their growth, it is important that they take the step and try to start sleeping alone. Which, on many occasions, ends up becoming a headache for parents due to the refusal and rejection of their children. In these cases, it is advisable to take it calmly, since it is a very common and natural problem.
Parents with children who refuse to sleep alone should understand the possible reasons behind this behavior. Psychologist María Dolores Maestre Montilla explains that, in many cases, this is due to a simple feeling of dependence. Which has been developing as it has become a habit for children to sleep together. Therefore, a new situation will generate “insecurities and fears that will cause the child to look for every excuse to avoid it,” says the specialist.
That is, it could be considered a “bad habit,” according to María Dolores Maestre. However, this does not mean that it should be downplayed. In fact, the psychologist advises correcting this situation, even through professional intervention if necessary.
The dynamic of each night is usually the same: parents urge their child to sleep alone and the child does nothing but flatly refuse, using all kinds of excuses that come to mind. A situation that sometimes makes adults lose patience. But the psychologist assures that the best strategy is the opposite: stay calm and not get upset. Instead, parents should adopt a firm but empathetic attitude, as well as create a sleep routine, among other techniques that will be effective.
