Lazy parenting?

Lazy parenting? It sounds almost like an oxy moron, doesn't it? This is sometimes the assumption made of attachment style parenting and I have, at times, been made to feel that this view has been held with regards to some of my painting decisions. So, here's the deal...

I don't sleep train because it is not what I want for my babe. I truly feel that by responding to her 24 hours a day I am teaching her that I am and always will be there for her. I am teaching her that she can trust me and that my job as mommy does not end at a particular time of day. I know that sleep training would be easier on me in the long run, but I chose to be a parent for so many reasons and parenting being easy wasn't one of them. There are days that living with this choice is tough, but I would not change it. She still comfort nurses through the night at 9 months old and while I hope this changes some day, I know I will miss it when it does.

I haven't baby proofed, despite Ruby being very active, because I want to teach her limits and about listening when asked not to do something (some days I feel like I say "not for Ruby" a hundred times lol). I also want her to explore things like the stairs because I want her to learn to navigate them with confidence. I want her to explore new and interesting things and feel that she will discover objects that I would never have thought to teach her about (the curtains are a good time lately!) Lastly, I hope that she will learn about natural consequences, but within reason of course! So far, the taste of dog food is not a deterrent in itself..neither is sand!

I often nurse to sleep because Ruby and I both enjoy it, so why not? I feel an incredible bond with nursing and I know that I will miss it when she is done. I also plan to nurse until she decides to wean. This is not because I am lazy, but rather because I have done my research and breast milk still has lots of nutrients to provide to an active toddler. I also hope to gross people out. Kidding! Mostly ;)

Baby led weaning. This is the route we chose in terms of feeding Ruby solids not because I didn't want the hassle of making baby food, but because we felt and still feel that this is the best option to teach her about textures, fine motor skills, social skills, independence and a healthy relationship with food. This has also resulted in a sense of pride for her, which is evident although she is still so young. She has done so well with learning to use an open cup and often smiles when she does so all by herself :) And if you think that blw is the lazy route, you should see some of the messes!!