The Do’s and Don’ts of Room Sharing with Your Baby: A Guide for Parents

The Do’s and Don’ts of Room Sharing with Your Baby: A Guide for Parents


As a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, I understand that room sharing with your baby can be both a comforting and challenging experience.
While the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room sharing for at least the first six months—up to one year ideally—for the benefits it brings, it’s essential to navigate this time with a balance that promotes restful sleep for everyone involved. Here’s what you need to know about the do’s and don’ts of room sharing.


The Do’s of Room Sharing

1. Use White Noise: If you find that every little sound wakes your baby—or keeps you awake—consider using white noise. A low-level white noise machine can help mask the noises you or your partner might make during the night, creating a soothing environment for your baby. It’s like bringing a bit of the womb’s calming environment into your home. 
2. Create a Barrier: Sometimes, your baby might wake up simply because they’re too aware of your presence. Especially once your baby reaches the 6-month mark, try setting up a screen, curtain, or some kind of partition between your bed and the baby’s sleep space to minimize this. This can create a small sense of separation that helps everyone sleep more soundly.
3. Stick to a Routine: Consistency is crucial when room sharing. Establishing a regular bedtime routine will help signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep, no matter where they are. Whether it’s a bath, a story, or a lullaby, sticking to the same routine each night can make bedtime smoother for both of you. It also gives the baby an opportunity to learn to sleep and settle without your presence in the room.
4. Consider an Earlier Transition: While the AAP advises room sharing for up to a year, many sleep experts find that transitioning your baby to their ownroom around six months can improve sleep quality for both you and your baby. If your baby starts to wake more often due to your proximity, this might be a sign that they’re ready for their own space.

The Don’ts of Room Sharing

1. Don’t Co-Sleep: It’s important to remember that room sharing means sharing the same room, not the same bed. Co-sleeping can significantly increase the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related dangers. Your baby should always have their own safe sleep space with a firm mattress and no loose bedding or pillows.
2. Don’t Ignore the Signs: If your baby is waking more frequently because they can see or hear you, it might be time to think about moving them to their own room, even if it’s earlier than you planned. Frequent night wakings can disrupt everyone’s sleep and lead to overtiredness, which is challenging for both baby and parents.
3. Don’t Forget About Your Own Sleep: Your sleep is just as important as your baby’s. If room sharing is causing significant sleep disturbances for you, it’s worth reconsidering your sleeping arrangement. Remember, well-rested parents are better equipped to care for their baby during the day.
4. Don’t Rely Solely on Room Sharing for Safety: While room sharing can reduce the risk of SIDS, it’s just one aspect of safe sleep. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, use a firm sleep surface, and avoid any soft bedding or stuffed animals in the crib.​

Finding the Balance
Room sharing can be a wonderful way to keep your baby close and safe during those early months, but it’s essential to find a balance that works for your family. While sleep experts agree that everyone would ideally have their own sleep space, that’s not always possible.

By incorporating strategies like using white noise and creating a small barrier between you and your baby, you can improve the quality of sleep for everyone.

Remember, your family’s well-being is the priority. If room sharing is the best option for your situation, know that you can make it work. And when the time comes, transitioning your baby to their own room can be a positive step for everyone’s sleep health. As your Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Author

Erin Neri - Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant and Owner of To The Moon and Back Sleep Consulting since 2016. 

Proud mother of 2 young school aged boys who did not come into the world  preprogrammed with independent sleep skills. 28+ years of training & experience working with children and families including her BA in Applied Psychology, Infant Mental Health Training, Early Childhood Education & Experience. Completed Integrative Feeding Specialist Certification in Oct. 2022. ​