One of the most important concerns for parents when it comes to caring for their newborn babies is sleep arrangements: should newborns sleep in the same bed with an adult, or should they sleep alone in a bassinet or crib? This may seem like a simple question, but it involves many considerations such as baby safety, promoting independence, and family intimacy. The purpose of this article is to provide scientific and practical advice for parents on the pros and cons of these two sleep arrangements.
Sleep alike, in which a newborn baby sleeps in the same bed with his or her parents, is practiced in many cultures. It enhances parent-child intimacy and facilitates nighttime feeding and soothing infants. However, there are also potential risks associated with sleeping together, including the possibility of accidental injury or suffocation, especially if the parent is tired or using a soft bed.
Sleeping alone means that the baby sleeps in a crib or bassinet designed for them, which can promote the baby's independent sleep pattern earlier and reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). However, it can also mean that parents need to wake up frequently to soothe or feed their babies, affecting the quality of their sleep.
When making a decision, parents need to consider a number of factors, including family habits, cultural background, the baby's health, and the parents' sleeping habits. Safety measures, such as the use of a fixed cocot next to the crib, are also part of the compromise.
Regardless of the type of sleep you choose, it's important to follow safety guidelines. This includes making sure the baby sleeps on his back, avoiding mattresses that are too soft and too much bedding, and keeping the baby's sleeping environment clean and at the right temperature. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to your newborn baby's sleep schedule. Parents should make the most suitable choice for their own situation based on their own lifestyle, the needs of their babies and professional medical advice. It is important that the safety and comfort of the infant is prioritized, whether you choose to sleep together or alone.