Mama just needs a rest — or at least as much rest as one can achieve while in bed with a child. But Romper asks: Does co-sleeping create bad habits?
Co-sleeping, whether it’s done under duress or by design, is a fairly common occurrence, noted the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Proponents for the practice have said that it enhances the bond between parent and child, that it’s just a part of our humanity, and that it improves a baby’s sleep and overall restfulness.
However, recent research disputed the idea that it is beneficial for a good night’s sleep. A study published in Sleep Medicine examined bed-sharing children and their parents over a long period of time and found that families who practice this form of co-sleeping were less rested, and more alert during the night. The babies and mothers were found to be more prone to waking or light sleeping.
