When Akosua was first born, she didn’t enjoy sleeping in a bassinet during those initial weeks. It wasn’t until she mastered self-soothing that she began sleeping more independently. That’s when my partner and I decided to transition her to her room and opt for a blanket pallet or crib mattress placed directly on the floor. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer.
Akosua loves sleeping on the floor. Not only does she sleep longer, but the quality of her sleep has improved significantly. As a parent, safety is always my top priority, and I’ve taken measures to ensure that she can’t fall off the bed. But beyond safety, there are numerous benefits to floor bed sleeping that have made this choice worthwhile.
One of the biggest advantages is the freedom of movement and independence that Akosua gains from sleeping on the floor. Being raised in a Montessori home, fostering her independence and self-reliance is essential to her development. Yes, there have been instances where she has rolled off the bed, but thanks to its proximity to the floor and the soft rug underneath, she has never once been injured. Instead, this has become a valuable part of her learning process, helping her understand her physical boundaries.
Floor bed sleeping also allows Akosua to move freely. When she wakes up, she has an open space to explore, which often prevents her from crying out for attention. She can sleep anywhere in the house at any time, as long as there is a soft, supportive mat for her to rest on. Additionally, this setup can help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), as she sleeps on a flat, firm surface without the presence of blankets or stuffed animals that could pose a suffocation hazard.
Overall, choosing to have Akosua sleep on the floor has been a positive experience for our family. It has not only improved her sleep quality but also fostered her independence and allowed her the freedom to explore her surroundings. As she continues to grow and develop, I am confident that this decision will continue to benefit her in countless ways.