Health & Safety

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Programs are available throughout Nebraska to help meet the needs of families and children

Most doctors today say the likelihood of babies being hurt by parents rolling over them is low. Babies are quick to squirm when they are bumped, and this serves to alert the parent. Many nursing mothers find it much more comfortable and convenient to keep their baby in bed with them rather than getting up several times a night.

Recent research suggests that babies sleep better when they are close to their mothers; they apparently get used to the mother's heartbeat and breathing rhythms, going into a very calm sleep characterized by even, steady breathing.

So, from a health and safety standpoint, babies are probably in no danger from sleeping with their parents.

But, there may be other factors to consider as parents decide what sleeping arrangements will work for them and their family. It's important for both parents to be well rested in order to have the energy to care for a child. They may find that their own sleep patterns are seriously disrupted by having the baby in bed with them. It is also important for husband and wife to have private time with each other, and a baby can become a real obstacle. Also, it can be difficult for babies to break the habit of sleeping with parents, whatever parents decide, it is important for them to talk together about their feelings. For all their sweetness, new babies really challenge the balance in a family. Parents need to work as a team to figure out what will be the best arrangement.