How Long Should Baby Sleep In Parents Room?

A common question we get from new parents is how long should baby sleep in parents room? When you bring your baby home from the hospital, he will likely sleep in the same room as you. Not only is this considered the safest place for your baby, but it is also convenient to have your baby near you for late-night feedings. However, as your baby gets older, you may be wondering when you should move them to their own room.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies should sleep in their parents’ room for the first six months of life to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Room sharing can reduce the risk of SIDS by as much as 50%. Exactly why this lowers the likelihood of SIDS is unclear, but it is speculated that having other people in the room makes your baby sleep lightly.

Another reason why room sharing is great is because it keeps the baby within mom’s reach and makes it easier to breastfeed. Breastfeeding has also been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS by 70%.

Room sharing with your baby for the first year of their life can help boost the parent-child bond. The longer the baby sleeps in the parents’ room, the closer the bond is, and the baby can learn that they can count on you to be around as they adjust to life outside of the womb.

So when asking yourself how long should baby sleep in parents room, it’s important to make sure your baby is prepared for the transition. Whether your baby is 12 months old or not, it’s important to check with the pediatrician to make sure your baby is growing well and doesn’t require middle of the night feedings. You may also be ready to make the transition if your baby can roll from their belly to their back and sleep for six hours or more. If you have more questions about this topic, you can always contact us to get more info and advice!