Closeness Works as Well as a $400 Mattress

In response to “Snooze Control” (July 6), isn’t it strange that only in Western cultures, where children are purposely separated from their parents at bedtime, that “sleep problems” exist?

Wake up, Mom and Dad, to the real motives of greedy retailers and “experts” who strive to undermine your common sense and self-esteem. “Ferberizing” is a fancy term for child abuse. Teddy bears that whoosh and $400 mattresses are too absurd for comment.

My two sons never experienced the artificial comfort of a pacifier, transitional object or bottle. Instead, they were nurtured by open arms, warm breasts and the security of the family bed. Physical closeness was available 24 hours a day, not a privilege to be denied come sunset.

Try experiencing the profound peace of snuggling with your baby at night, comfortable in each other’s embrace. Your heart will overflow and your “problems” will fade to memory.

LESLIE SHORES

Los Alamitos