Factors To Consider When Deciding To Sleep-Share
A large number of parents share their beds with their babies. While the motivations vary from household to household, nearly all moms and dads report that there are advantages and drawbacks to doing so. It’s important to keep a few things in mind before jointly making the decision to sleep-share. Here are four factors to consider:
#1 – Your Little One’s Safety
Experts disagree on whether it is safe to let your infant sleep in the same bed as you and your partner. For example, the American Academy of Pediatrics discourages the activity if your little one is younger than two years. They cite the possibility of suffocation and similar dangers.
On the other hand, other groups advocate the practice as long as moms and dads follow specific safety guidelines. For example, you should avoid sharing your bed with your infant if you’re intoxicated. And you should never leave your baby alone.
#2 – Feeding Flexibility
One of the advantages of co-sleeping is that mothers find it easier to feed their babies at night. Rather than having to get up and go into another room, they can simply roll over on their side to breastfeed. While their infant nurses, moms can drift back into slumber.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t always work out so conveniently. Many mothers claim that their little ones are more likely to wake up to nurse when co-sleeping.
#3 – Do You Have Your Partner’s Support?
Because there are advantages and drawbacks, the decision to sleep-share should be made by both partners after talking openly about each person’s concerns. If one person makes the decision without the support of his or her partner, it can pave the way for resentment.
One of the drawbacks of co-sleeping is that it limits your privacy; in some cases, it can reduce the level of sexual intimacy you share with one another. If the decision is not made jointly, this can impair your relationship.
#4 – Long-Term Impact
Before you and your partner decide to sleep-share, consider the long-term effects. Even those who advocate the practice recommend that parents create a transition plan during which they encourage their baby to migrate into his or her own bed. Otherwise, a toddler may develop a deep sense of attachment that resists isolation.
Not surprisingly, sleep-sharing has become more popular as mothers and fathers have become busier. Few parents have as much time to bond with their little ones as they wish. Co-sleeping offers a solution of sorts. In particular, it provides dads with a valuable opportunity to snuggle with their babies. That gives them a chance to establish a connection that might not otherwise be available to them.
As with any parenting practice, the decision to sleep-share is a personal one that can only be made by you and your partner. Talk openly with each other about the pros and cons in order to decide the most appropriate choice for your family.
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