As a parent you will probably have heard many varying opinions over sharing your bed with your little one, or “co sleeping” as its commonly known. Although feelings run high on both sides, experts advise that the safest place for a baby to sleep for the first six months is in a cot in the same room as you. However, most people admit that the decision whether to sleep with your child or not should be a personal one made by you. Some breastfeeding mums feel it’s more natural and convenient to have their child nearby for night feeds while some parents feel uncomfortable with the idea of their child sleeping alone at night. On the other hand, there are many parents who believe that it’s extremely important for their child to become used to sleeping on their own from a young age. There are also parents who feel that their bedroom should remain a child-free sanctuary; a place for rest and togetherness. Whatever your opinion, and as long as your child is safe, there isn’t a ‘black and white’ definitive answer.
Remember that every child is different and so are every parents’ circumstances and opinions. The decisions you make over where your child sleeps should be informed ones and right for you as a family; taking the safety of your child and your own family’s needs into consideration.
Children have shared beds with their parents all over the world for centuries, yet it cannot be disregarded that the safest place proven for a small child to sleep is in their cot.
If you do choose to follow the co-sleeping route, here are some safety tips to follow:
Choose light bedding
If your baby is under one year old use lightweight covers instead of a duvet to prevent the risk of overheating or suffocation. Check regularly to ensure your little one hasn’t wriggled beneath the blankets.
Don’t let your baby get too hot
Contact with your body will raise your baby’s skin temperature so dress him in light clothes for sleep.
Don’t let your baby sleep next to your toddler
Your toddler may think it’s exciting to have their brother or sister in the family bed but they may accidentally hurt them by wriggling around.
Never leave your baby alone in the bed. If you need to leave the room then place your baby in the cot or Moses basket until you return.
If you experiencing difficulties with your baby’s sleep then have a read of the feedback we have received from parents like yourself that have brought a Sleepytot Baby Comforter into their homes and the change it has made to their lives.
