What is Co-sleeping, Bed-sharing, And Room-sharing?

Some parents sleep with their babies in a different room. Others have a crib in their bedroom. And some even opt to have the baby in their bed with them. There are many divided opinions about all of this, meaning it can be confusing to decide what’s best for you and your family. At the end of the day, it’s all about finding the safest method to enjoy the rest you and your baby deserve!

What is the difference?

Co-sleeping and bed-sharing are often confused, and although they are related, they are very different. Co-sleeping is an umbrella term that refers to sleeping with your baby or toddler close to you. This includes being in the same room or the same bed, meaning bed-sharing is a type of co-sleeping. Likewise, room-sharing is another type of co-sleeping where your baby is in the same room as you in their crib.

Is bed-sharing safe?

Some parents swear by bed-sharing. Yet, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission strongly advise parents NOT to bed-share. This drastically increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). It is okay to have your baby in the bed with you for periods, such as during feedings. But you should sleep separately for longer durations.

And what about room-sharing?

Room-sharing on the other hand is totally safe and there is evidence to suggest it reduces SIDS by up to 50%. Having your baby in a crib in your room helps you spot any breathing issues that may need your attention.

Room-sharing: the pros

There are many pros of room-sharing, from practicality to more cuddles with your little one. The main pros of room-sharing include:

● easier nighttime feeds as your baby is closer to you. It is easier to get them fed and put back to bed if their cot is in your room, meaning you’ll both get back to sleep quicker;

● more opportunities to cuddle with your baby, which will strengthen the growing bond between the two of you;

● reducing stress as you’ll most likely get more sleep if your baby is in the same room as you;

● feeling more secure that your baby is nearby;

● and last but by no means least, reducing the risk of SIDS.

Room-sharing: the cons

Now, of course, there are never pros without cons. The cons of room-sharing include:

● making it harder for your baby to transition to their own bedroom when the time comes;

● disturbed sleep for you and your partner, especially if your baby is a ‘loud’ sleeper;

● and loss of privacy, which might be a problem for you and your partner.

6 handy tips for room-share

If you want to go ahead and give room-sharing a try, be sure to try the following foolproof tips.

1. Keep your baby in sight

One of the greatest benefits of room-sharing is the reduced risk of SIDS. So, keep your baby’s crib within sight of your bed so you can monitor them throughout the night. This will also help you feel more secure if you’re feeling anxious about the safety of your baby, which is totally normal, especially for new parents.

2. Make a baby zone

Dedicate a corner of your bedroom for the baby. Here you can have the crib, changing table, and anything else related to your baby. You can even distinguish it with a baby-themed rug and decorations. This will help in having some separation between you and your baby. After all, you’re still an individual and not just a mother!

3. Try for six months

Your baby is the most at risk of SIDS in their first six months. That’s why it is best to room-share with them for at least this period. After that, you could move them to their own bedroom. Or, you can keep them with you for longer, whatever you feel comfortable with.

4. Change your lighting

Before your little one arrives, you should think about changing the lighting in your room. Remove any cold, bright, and harsh lights you may have, and opt for warm and softer ones. Keep a dim light next to your bed that you can flick on during nighttime feeds if you wish. Finally, consider getting some black-out curtains. Darkness will be your new best friend in helping your little one get a good night’s rest.

5. Try white noise

A white noise device can help your baby to fall asleep and stay asleep. They work by drowning out other noises in your home. Plus, with time, your baby will start to associate the white noise with bedtime — it’s a win-win!

6. Try BABY SLEEP with Beginning.com

And finally, check out BABY SLEEP from Beginning.com, a series of natural and calming melodies created by experts to help your little one node off. And, if you want even more tips on getting your baby to sleep, check out our masterclass here. Beginning.com is here every step of the way for you and your baby.