Where should our newborn sleep?

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  1. Dr. Michael Breus
     
    Dr. Michael Breus answered:
    The answer to this question can vary between cultures and sleep specialists.  In my opinion, babies should sleep in the safest place for them and their parents.  
    If you decide your baby should sleep in bed with you, here are a few suggestions:
    •    Remove anything that could potentially smother your baby.  This includes things like foam toppers, thick comforters, and unused pillows.
    •    Make sure to never lie your baby face down in the bed. 
    •    No one in the bed should be under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or anything else that could cause them to accidentally roll over the baby. 

    You could also consider placing your baby in a “Moses basket.”   The basket is small enough to lay on your bed and has a flat base with protective walls.  You can put it in bed with you so your baby has a flat surface to sleep on.

    Another option is a bassinette.  The baby can be close and away from the potential risks of sleeping in your bed.
     
    After two months it is best to try and have your baby in a crib in his/her own room. This will allow potentially sleep deprived parents to sleep better and your baby can learn how to fall asleep without you.

    Picture of sleeping infant



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    The answer to this question can vary between cultures and sleep specialists.  In my opinion, babies should sleep in the safest place for them and their parents.   If you decide your baby should sleep in bed with you, here are a few... More