Overnight's & Exchanging our Littles

Getting ready to head to Nana’s house with his favorite blankie - Don’t leave home without it! 😍

This is such a tough subject you guys! I am still getting my feet wet on all of this co-parenting stuff.

So… I’d like to share what I’ve learned so far….

Let’s talk about overnights for the kiddos! Wherever they may be heading off to - Whether that be to our co-parent’s house or to other family who is helping out…

This can be a challenging time. For both yourself and your little one!

With Beckett, I was so adamant that he have all his transitional items because I wanted him to feel comfortable no matter where he was and have all his familiar items that help make him feel at home and cozy wherever he is!

I’ve found those items that he can bring along with him are sooo important. Granted, Beckett was only 9 months old when we began our journey into co-parenting but these transitional items, primarily his blankie and Lamby, have carried into now, at age 2 and continue to be effective helping him feel more at home.

Before I drop Beckett off with his Dad, I always have a fun talk with Beckett. I tell him what is coming up in his world, that he is seeing and spending time with his dad, I tell him when he will see me again and what we will do when he gets back.

It seems so simple but I think we sometimes have a tendency to overlook what our little one’s know and Beckett really responds to the 411 of being in the loop of what the plans are!

This has helped immensely - These little people of ours are soooo smart! They know what’s going on and they appreciate knowing that we are permanent fixtures in their life. In the early days I felt like Beckett had some apprehension because he was so young, this is only natural I think… so I would go as far as to spray some of my light perfume on his Lamby so that it was a gentle reminder that I wasn’t far away (it definitely gave me comfort too…ha)! but I explain that whenever he misses me he can show his Lamby some LOVE! ♥️ Awe!

Also, having a great overnight bag is essential for all your packing needs. This bag, from Land’s End has room for tons of clothes and toys, super functional plus light to carry! I also found a this very similar, budget friendly bag.

Overall, each of our children has their own individual needs, as they are all their own unique little beings. We’re all in this journey together but so far, the premise in co-parenting for me has been, top of mind, top of heart. I always have Beckett at the forefront of my mind. Whatever is best for Beckett is what I’m on board with… It helps me remember, when I am packing his bags and making exchanges, it’s all about him!

Ultimately, there is light at the end of the tunnel - the overnights do get easier and as we become more well adjusted this becomes our children’s new normal.

I’m not trying to glamorize divorce in any way but it is a good reminder that it is not the end of the world.

Somehow we make it work! I think we can all agree that the ultimate goal is to have happy & healthy children that are growing and thriving with us, everyday.