My son is very bright and mature, but I fear it's time for me to push him to be a little more independent. Although his bedroom is right down the hallway, he gets terrified of being alone in the dark and prefers to sleep in my bedroom.

My husband and I have a large bed, so we've never minded sharing with our son, but I feel like maybe we're coddling him a little too much. I've talked to other moms, and none of the other boys his age have any problem sleeping in their own rooms.

Believe me, I wish he could be my little boy forever, but now that he's old enough to bring girls over to spend the night, I think it's time for him to leave our bed.

How can I encourage him to be more independent!? I'm desperate. He starts college in the fall, and I doubt his roommates are going to be as understanding!