Sleeping Safe: What You Need to Know About Co-Sleeping
A recent survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that nearly half of parents (46%) sometimes, often, or always co-sleep with their child under 18. While co-sleeping is common, experts warn it may not always be the best choice — especially for infants.
Understanding the Risks of Co-Sleeping
Creating a safe sleep environment is crucial, especially for infants. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 1,000 infants died from accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed in 2022. This highlights the importance of being aware of the risks associated with co-sleeping.
Dr. Rakesh Bhattacharjee, a sleep physician and AASM spokesperson, notes that “co-sleeping is unsafe for infants, and routinely co-sleeping can potentially detract from the development of healthy sleep habits in children of any age.” He emphasizes that consistently sleeping in their own sleep space can help children foster healthy sleep patterns.
Guidelines for Infant Sleep Safety
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants sleep in the same room as parents — but on a separate sleep surface designed for babies — for at least the first six months. This guideline is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of infants.
Tips for a Safe Sleep Environment
To create a safe sleep environment for infants, follow these tips from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine:
- Always place infants on their backs to sleep to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
- Use a firm, flat surface with a fitted sheet, such as a crib, bassinet, or playpen that meets U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission standards.
- Keep soft objects like additional sheets, blankets, crib bumpers, stuffed animals, and toys out of the infant’s sleep area to prevent suffocation and strangulation hazards.
- Maintain a quiet sleep environment with no loud or continuous noise to promote healthy sleep habits.
Co-Sleeping: Is it Right for Your Family?
While occasionally co-sleeping with a scared or sick child may be understandable, regularly sharing a bed can impact long-term sleep habits. Parents should consider whether co-sleeping is supporting their child’s ability to develop independent and healthy sleep routines.
Dr. Bhattacharjee advises parents to “help their children develop habits and learn routines that establish good sleep hygiene that will enable them to enjoy the benefits of healthy sleep for a lifetime.” By prioritizing healthy sleep habits, parents can set their children up for success and promote overall well-being.
Seeking Help for Sleep Concerns
If you have concerns about your child’s sleep, don’t hesitate to seek help. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s sleep center directory can connect you with a sleep team at an accredited sleep center. These professionals can provide guidance and support to help your child develop healthy sleep habits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while co-sleeping may be a common practice, it’s essential to prioritize sleep safety, especially for infants. By following guidelines and tips from reputable sources, parents can create a safe sleep environment and promote healthy sleep habits for their children. Remember, healthy sleep habits are crucial for overall well-being, and it’s never too early to start developing good sleep hygiene.