Facts About Co-Sleeping and How to Transition Away From it

Having a new baby in the home means parents have a lot of sleep-deprived nights . It’s more convenient for moms to have their infants as close as possible when it’s time for bed. This is why many parents opt for co-sleeping.

Co-sleeping is practiced by sleeping in the same bed or sleeping in the same room but with a baby in a bassinet or crib. The latter is the safer and encouraged option. Board-certified pediatrician Jess Daigle says doing this requires parents to prioritize the safety and well-being of their baby.

“Co-sleeping is a deeply personal decision influenced by cultural practices, family dynamics, and parental beliefs,” Daigle said. ” [It] can be done safely when it involves room-sharing rather than bed-sharing.”

Bed-sharing or Room-sharing

Co-sleeping comes with a number of benefits and risks to a child. The dangers of co-sleeping in the same bed include suffocation, entrapment, falls, overheating and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

“Bed-sharing has been associated with an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, particularly in infants under six months of age,” Daigle told 21Ninety.

While bed-sharing poses significant risks, room-sharing can offer several benefits, like easier nighttime feeding, bonding and monitoring your child.

“Room-sharing has been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS by up to 50 percent,” Daigle said.

Co-sleeping Guidelines

Daigle says parents who decide to co-sleep should follow certain guidelines to reduce the risk of danger to the child. She advises parents to try to avoid bed-sharing, even on sofas or armchairs. She also urges parents to consider age limits. According to Daigle, the highest risks are in the child’s first year of life, especially the first six months. As the child gets older there is less of a risk, but still a safety concern.

“Many experts suggest that as a child reaches toddler age it is best to transition them to their own bed,” Daigle said. “To promote independence and better sleep habits for both the child and parents.”

Daigle advises parents ensure a safe sleeping environment free of items that can choke the baby. Impaired parents should also avoid sleeping with a baby.

“Parents who are excessively tired, have taken medication, or are under the influence of alcohol or drugs should not co-sleep, as this increases the risk of suffocation,” Daigle said.

She also says to place a baby on his or her back when sleeping, because it is the safest position.

How to End Co-sleeping

When the time comes, Daigle has tips for transitioning away from co-sleeping with your child. First, start with a gradual transition, like moving the baby’s crib or bassinet farther away from the parents’ bed. Then, create a bedtime routine. This helps a child understand signals that it is time to go to sleep in their own space. Next, provide comfort and reassurance.

“Offer comfort when transitioning, like staying in the room until the baby falls asleep, to reduce anxiety,” Daigle said.

Parents can also use nap time as a way for children to sleep on their own during the day before incorporating it into their nightly routine. When your child accomplishes a good night in his or her own bed, give them praises and rewards to help encourage their independence.

“If co-sleeping becomes difficult to discontinue or raises concerns, consulting a pediatrician or sleep specialist can help ensure a smooth and safe transition for both the baby and parents,” Daigle said.

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