Co-sleeping is a topic that you read a lot about nowadays. Many parents are of the mindset that it draws them ever closer in a child-parent relationship. Before you make a final decision, educate yourself in this controversial topic

Any breastfeeding mother will attest to the fact that co-sleeping is the most wonderful thing since sliced bread. No getting in and out of bed many times a night. All it takes is for the mother to lie on her side and make her breast available to her infant while both continue to enjoy the benefits of less interrupted sleep.

Does co-sleeping provide a more intimate relationship between parents and child? Many will reply in the affirmative stating that the closeness the baby feels in regard to closeness of his or her parent in actuality provides more rest for all involved. It is further considered to enhance the child’s growth in the emotional factors of confidence and self-esteem.

Even if co-sleeping were to have minimal benefit for the infant, parents are the first to admit the lack of worry they feel in regard to their baby’s safety. They do not have to worry about whether they will hear them cry or have any other need that is met by the parent. Some studies show a favoritism in co-sleeping as it has shown a lesser degree of the instance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, more readily referred to as SIDS.

There are some precautions that should be examined in regard to co-sleeping. One of them is parental supervision. Your infant could fall from your bed quite easily. There is such a thing as a three sided crib made to be parallel with your bed but with enough to room for your infant to sleep safely as well as comfortably.

The intimate time shared by a husband and wife can pose quite a problem as well. Their privacy suffers greatly when an infant or young child shares their bed. In order to have moments of intimacy, it can take a bit of ingenuity on the part of the parents to say the least.

Although it was aforementioned that the risk of SIDS is a lesser danger when co-sleeping is allowed, this is not the case if precautions are not taken by the parents. Certain prescription drugs that are meant to induce a deeper sleep as well as parents who smoke or drink, can pose a great risk to your infant. Morbid obesity can also contribute to these dangerous factors. If any of these things mentioned should apply to you, you may wish to reconsider your choice of co-sleeping.

Other precautions that have to be addressed are any areas of the bed that the infant could slip through and result in his or her injury. Spaces between the bed and headboard should be examined. Pillow-top mattresses and any other soft item could easily suffocate your infant.

Co-sleeping can be a very rewarding experience, but only if you follow these stringent guidelines.

Doc. No.: CBFADS729

Author Bio: Colby is a writer for My Baby Bedding Shop and he would like for you to check out his Baby Bedding and Baby Crib Bedding and his Toddler Bedding.

Category: Parenting
Keywords: cosleeping, co-sleeping, infant sleeping