I will admit it- we co-sleep with our baby. I know it is controversial and all the parenting books warn against taking baby to the bed with you. But good grief- we need some sleep and honestly both my sons seemed happier and healthier sleeping in our bed. Baby number two is a month old and both my boys have preferred to be snuggled up with me rather than in their crib. Even at this moment, my little Isaiah is stirring in his crib because he isn't with us. I think that this custom is really not so unusual, it's just kept "hush, hush." We don't proudly announce to doctors and in-laws that we share the bed with the baby but we might confess our "secret" to a few select friends. But why is this custom so taboo? Why does it carry such a stigma? I've done some of my own reading and research on the concerns and benefits. I have also already raised one baby with this arrangement. Is he still in the bed with us and now his baby brother? No! He is a rambunctious 3- year old that sleeps by himself in his "big boy bed" when he is actually sleeping that is.
It's not for everyone and it probably depends on the baby you have. But it has been a blessing to us to share this time connecting together. My husband has caught my babies and I having good deep sleeps as we rest face-to-face. Benefits that we have experienced:
1) baby stays asleep longer
2) I get to sleep more
3) his breathing seems more regular than when he sleeps alone-wow!
4) feeding is more convenient
5) I can determine his needs quicker
6) we feel more connected and in tune with our baby
7) both our sons have had acid-reflux and being able to help them right when they begin spitting up reduced their frustration and crying and gives me a peace of mind
I believe that this co-sleeping article on Dr. Sear's website summarizes many of my own findings and observations. http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/sleep-problems/co-sleeping-yes-no-sometimes
