There is no other parenting topic that divides a room more than the discussion around sleep.
Our perception of what reflects normal newborn sleep is often a result of changing guidelines around infant feeding and safe sleep. It was not uncommon for babies of the 1960-1990’s to be sleeping on their stomachs, in another room. Coupled with high rates of tobacco use, low breastfeeding rates, and the prolific use of gripe water which was alcohol based, this led to babies who often slept long deep sleep at an early age. Families were encouraged to dip soothers into honey, and add baby pablum to bottles all in an effort to have uninterrupted sleep. This perpetuated the belief that 10-12 hour night time sleep was not only safe but to be expected.
Our increasing breastfeeding rates, delayed solids, back sleeping and reduction of smoking has led to a reduction of the SIDS rate by 2/3. Waking babies are safe babies. If your partner or family is struggling with your decision to room or bed share, you can reach out to your virtual village for confidence and support.
The Beyond Sleep Training Project is a great blog with personal experiences.
When Your Partner Isn’t On the Bedsharing Train by Evolutionary Parenting has some good ideas for how to discuss the subject with your partner.
