[nancynic]

Is it safe to sleep with infants?

During the past 3 years, 180 babies suffocated while sleeping in bed with their parents (according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission).

Some feel this is unsafe ... others disagree. Dr. Bob Sears reminds us that the incidence of crib related Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is far higher than infant deaths sleeping with parents.

There are no statistics comparing the number of SIDS deaths in bed vs. in the crib. The incidents of infant deaths sleeping with adults include: children getting trapped between the bed and wall (or the bed and another object); entrapment in footboards or bed frames; soft bedding (pillows); falls or an adult accidentally lying on top of the baby.

The CPSC recommends babies under 24 months sleep in cribs which meet current safety standards.

If you decide to have your baby in your bed, here are some tips:

Put the bed against a wall and fill cracks with a rolled blanket.
Push furniture away from the bed so babies don't get stuck between the bed and night table or other furniture.
Make sure the mattress is the right size for the bed frame so infants do not fall and get stuck between the bed and frame.
Avoid drinking, drugs and over the counter medication (which lessen awareness) so you will avoid you rolling over onto a baby.

Have you thought about having your infants/toddlers sleep with you?
What has your experience been like?
What do you consider the drawbacks or benefits?

Nancy