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If you are considering the family bed as an option in your household, it is good to consider the entire picture and whether or not it will work for you.
First question to consider, if this is your first baby, is what is your first impression of sharing sleep with your newborn? Plenty of people will be appalled if you tell them you plan on sleeping with your new baby. Despite the fact that other countries share sleep and in the past it was common practice in the United States, horror seems to cross people's faces. They will tell you how you will regret it because your baby will never sleep alone. Rest assured, children do grow up and leave the home. But babies are only babies once, so why not treat them as such?
Next consider how your partner feels about sharing a bed with a baby and later a toddler. If one step at a time is your approach, look only to your nursing newborn and think about what feels right. People worry about lying on their babies in the night but mothers do tend to be aware of their babies in sleep as long as they are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Smokers should also not sleep with their babies, as that is considered a risk factor to the child. When you have your child between you and your partner you can create a wall with a pillow, one that is not too mushy and soft in which the baby's face could become depressed.
Consider the space in your sleeping area as well. If your bedroom is small yet you want your new baby with you, the family bed might be ideal for your house.
Think of all the myths and negativity around sharing sleep and dispel them all. It is a natural way to be with your baby after carrying a growing life inside you for nine months. Why in the world would you want to be parted with such a perfect beauty. The family bed gives more opportunities to lie awake with your precious bundle and look at the miracle you created.
If you are breastfeeding your baby, this is easier done in the night when your baby is cuddled next to you. No getting up and walking to the nursery or even a nearby crib. You only need to roll on your side and latch your child on and fall back asleep in that position. Your baby gets the benefit of nutrition all night and you get the benefit of more sleep since there is less time for your baby to cry cause you are right there.
Some arguments against the family bed say it interferes with intimacy between partners. There only needs to be some creativity in mind and that can be worked around.
Overall, the family bed can provide peace of mind as you continue your parenting into the nighttime hours and are assured of your child's safety and wellness.
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