"Family bed" concept debated
19/08/2008
An American news provider has questioned the use of a "family bed" - one which parents share with their children - to weigh up the good and bad sides of the arrangement.
Writing in a report for the Indianapolis Star, Doreen Nagle noted she noted that small children and babies would sleep more comfortably in the knowledge that their parent is there, who can soothe them back to sleep.
Furthermore, she said that bonding with "pillow talk" in early mornings or bedtimes can enhance a family''s relationship, with the "bond of trust and love" becoming "more tightly woven".
In contrast, Ms Nagle highlighted the loss of privacy and intimacy between parents, the inability for the child to develop self-comforting skills and the serious fear of rolling over onto a child during sleep.
In conclusion, she recommended that parents should keep the crib close to their bed, or letting your child fall asleep before carrying them over to their own bed.
Earlier this month, it was reported that children risk gaining more weight due to a lack of sleep.
