If you are looking to move your son to his own bed, a gradual approach usually works best:
As a son approaches puberty, the need for physical and psychological privacy becomes a priority for healthy development. Tips for a Smooth Transition
There is no "magic age" to stop co-sleeping, as every family and child is different. However, many families begin the transition when: mom and son share a bed
The most common critique of a mom and son sharing a bed is the fear that the child will become "overly dependent" or that it will interfere with the mother's privacy.
In many cultures across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, bed-sharing is the standard. It is seen as a way to foster familial bonds, provide security, and ensure the child feels part of the "tribe" from birth. In these contexts, a mother and son sharing a bed isn't viewed as a hurdle to independence, but as a foundational building block of emotional security. If you are looking to move your son
Start by placing a twin mattress on the floor next to your bed so he is still close but in his own "zone."
Physical touch releases oxytocin (the "bonding hormone") and lowers cortisol (the stress hormone). For a son, having his mother nearby can mitigate night terrors and separation anxiety. In many cultures across Asia, Africa, and Latin
Understanding this dynamic requires looking at the reasons families choose this arrangement, the developmental impacts, and when it might be time to transition to separate sleeping spaces. The Cultural Context of Co-Sleeping