A new study published last week brings up a very controversial subject in the world of infant sleep – co-sleeping. For years, moms all over the world have debated the merits and drawbacks of a “family bed,” “attachment parenting,” and “co-sleeping.” Melissa and I don’t feel it’s necessary to take a side in this argument. Different arrangements work for different families and we’re not here to tell people what is right or wrong. We do believe in strong scientific research and feel it is our responsibility as sleep experts to share with our clients and friends any new information that comes to our attention about sleep and child safety.

This article (discussed here on CNN) highlights new findings which state that co-sleeping increases a young infant’s risk of dying from SIDS by 50% and even greater for children younger than four months. This scares us a great deal. Infants who sleep in a bed with their parents are surrounded by soft, hot materials including pillows, blankets, and soft mattresses that are dangerous for babies.

As per these findings, we recommend the following:

• If you choose to have your baby close to you while you sleep, please keep her in her own bassinet or crib next to your bed, or use a co-sleeper

• Never put soft, plush materials in your infant’s crib until you get the OK from your pediatrician

• Put your baby to sleep on his back

Our general rule of thumb is to follow the advice of our trusted pediatricians. They are the experts. It is clear from this article where many will weigh-in on this issue.

Does this new research change how you put your kids to sleep? Tell us what you think.

-Debbie