16 January 2024 , 22:14
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Parents are embracing a new 'sleepunder' trend when it comes to allowing their children to stay at a friend' home.
After growing safeguarding concerns around allowing children to sleep at another family's home, more and more parents are said to be collecting their children just before bedtime as opposed to allowing them to stay the night. Parenting expert Erika Souter said on Good Morning America: "Sleepunders are a great option for parents not comfortable with their kids staying the entire night at a friend's house we've been seeing this more and more since the pandemic where people want their kids to stay connected, to feel part of a group and have friends."
Souter added it is a good choice for parents who don't culturally understand the sleepover concept. Dr Bracho-Sanchez said: "There really isn't a right time, you have to know your child here, there are six-year-olds that want to do sleep-overs and 13-year-olds not ready, and not able to navigate trigger situations. You have to know your child."
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More parents are said to be picking up their children before bedtime to avoid sleepovers (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Souter highlighted the importance of teaching kids about personal boundaries: "It's very important they also have an out," she explained. "Use a safe word on the phone with them, so you can collect them if necessary."
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The experts also shared key questions parents should ask before a sleepover, like if there are guns in the house, who will be supervising, whether alcohol is locked away, and who else will be there.
Dr Anderson advised that practicing bedtime routines at home helps understand a child's comfort level for sleepovers. He also mentioned it's crucial for parents to find ways to relax when their child is under someone else's care: "It's also about parents turning on themselves and saying 'now my kid is in the care of someone else, how can I relax myself?'"
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Dr Bracho-Sanchez wrapped up by emphasizing preparation for both children and parents: "It's important to set them up for success, knowing there is no such thing as a situation where there is zero risk."
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