As a mother of three, I’ve experienced my fair share of sleepless nights. The first few months with a newborn can be overwhelming—there’s the endless feeding, diaper changes, and the feeling that you’ll never get enough rest again. But perhaps the hardest part for me was figuring out how to help my babies sleep soundly at night. I quickly realized that establishing a solid newborn bedtime routine was key, but along the way, I made my fair share of mistakes.
When I first became a mom, I didn’t realize how important the environment and consistency were for my baby’s sleep. I thought that as long as I followed the typical advice—like rocking them to sleep or waiting for them to tire out—it would be enough. But each time I missed a step or ignored a little sleep cue, bedtime seemed to get harder. Through trial and error, I learned that small mistakes, whether it’s an overstimulating environment or not being consistent with the bedtime schedule, could leave everyone, including me, feeling frustrated and exhausted.
If you’re reading this, you may be going through something similar, feeling a bit lost or unsure of how to establish a bedtime routine for your newborn. I get it. But don’t worry—you’re not alone. In this post, I’m going to share some common mistakes I made (and others often make) when it comes to newborn bedtime routines. Let’s dive into these little missteps and how avoiding them can help you, your baby, and your whole family enjoy peaceful nights of sleep.
1. Not Establishing a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Why Consistency Matters: How Babies Thrive on Routines
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through years of teaching and motherhood, it’s that babies love routines—though they might not be able to express it in words yet! Think about it: When you wake up every day at the same time, follow similar steps to get ready, and settle in at the same hour for sleep, things just feel better. Routines give us a sense of security and predictability. For babies, this isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential. They crave the comfort of knowing what comes next.
When I first became a mom, I was juggling so many new things that it felt impossible to stick to a consistent bedtime. I’d put my baby down at different times each night, depending on when the last feeding happened or how long they’d been awake. But I quickly noticed that this made bedtime harder, not easier. The unpredictable schedule left my baby fussing and resisting sleep—no matter how tired they were. I learned the hard way that consistency isn’t just a convenience; it’s a game-changer.
Babies thrive on routine because it helps them regulate their internal clocks. From a developmental perspective, creating a pattern signals to their brains that it’s time to sleep. Pediatricians say that babies who have a set routine feel more secure, as they know what to expect. This predictable environment helps them wind down more naturally and, in turn, sleep better.
Common Mistake: Inconsistent Sleep Times
One of the most common mistakes I made early on was thinking that bedtime could be flexible. I’d put my baby down whenever they seemed “ready,” which, in hindsight, was a recipe for disaster. Babies don’t operate like adults. While we might fall asleep no matter when our head hits the pillow, babies need time to wind down, just like they need time to adjust to a consistent schedule.
Inconsistent sleep times confuse a baby’s body clock. Sometimes they fall asleep too late and then wake up cranky. Other times, they may sleep too early and wake up in the middle of the night—ready for round two of playtime. When you don’t establish a regular bedtime, your baby can become overtired or under-rested, which leads to more frequent wake-ups and a lot of tears—both theirs and yours.
I remember one night when I put my baby to bed late after an eventful family gathering. They were already past their usual bedtime, and it was a struggle. Once we finally got them to sleep, they woke up several times throughout the night. The next day, they were extra fussy. That night, I decided to commit to a regular bedtime—and what a difference it made! The tantrums lessened, and my baby slept soundly through the night.
Tip: Set a Regular Bedtime and Wake-up Schedule for Your Newborn
Now that we’ve covered why consistency matters, let’s talk about how you can make it happen. Setting a regular bedtime and wake-up time doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a little planning and sticking to a routine. It’s the key to making sure your baby gets the restful sleep they need and you get the peaceful nights you deserve.
For a newborn, aim to have them in bed at the same time every evening, even if it’s just within a 30-minute window. Babies under three months typically need around 14-17 hours of sleep, but it doesn’t all happen at once. Creating a bedtime routine helps signal to your baby that it’s time for sleep.
Let’s say your baby has had a good feeding at 7:00 PM. Start winding down at 7:30 with a quiet routine—dim lights, soft music, or some gentle rocking. This signals to your little one that it’s time for rest. Once they’re in bed by 8:00 PM, aim to have them wake up at the same time each morning, ideally between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM.
It may take some time for your baby to adjust, but once you stick to it, you’ll notice they fall asleep easier and sleep more soundly.
Entity: Pediatricians Recommend Regular Sleep Routines for Optimal Development
Experts like pediatricians know exactly how critical sleep is for newborns. Their brains and bodies are developing rapidly, and sleep is when much of this growth happens. Pediatricians have long recommended that parents establish regular sleep routines to give babies the best start in life.
Dr. William Sears, a well-known pediatrician, often emphasizes the importance of bedtime rituals in his work. In his book “The Baby Sleep Book,” he explains how routines, like consistent bedtimes, help babies feel more secure and ready for sleep. A routine prepares their minds and bodies for rest, signaling that the day is winding down and it’s time to recharge.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also recommends regular sleep patterns for newborns to ensure they get the right amount of rest for their development. A stable routine, combined with a soothing environment, promotes better sleep hygiene and contributes to healthier sleep patterns in the long run.
So, next time you find yourself wondering if consistency really matters, just think of it as the key to your baby’s better sleep—and a little extra peace for you.
2. Creating an Overstimulating Sleep Environment
Why a Calming Environment is Essential: Babies Need Quiet, Dim Spaces to Wind Down
Imagine trying to sleep in a brightly lit room with loud, distracting sounds all around. Not very relaxing, right? The same goes for your newborn. Babies, especially in the early months, are learning how to navigate the world around them. Everything is new, and they can easily become overstimulated. A soothing, calming environment helps them transition from the busy day to a peaceful night of sleep.
When I first brought my babies home from the hospital, I didn’t quite realize how sensitive they were to their surroundings. I remember one night thinking, “It’s bedtime; why won’t you sleep?” I had all the lights on, my phone pinging with notifications, and the TV playing in the background. My little one kept looking around, fussing, and wouldn’t settle down. The bright lights and noise were too much. Babies, unlike adults, don’t know how to tune out the world around them. They absorb every little detail, which is why creating a quiet, dim space is crucial for their sleep.
Newborns need an environment that mirrors the calmness they felt in the womb. The dark, warm, and quiet conditions there were perfect for sleep. When you replicate that in your baby’s nursery, it helps them relax and get the sleep they need to grow.
Common Mistake: Bright Lights or Loud Noises Before Bedtime
I’ve made the mistake myself—turning on every light in the room while I tried to put my baby down, thinking that maybe they needed to see more to feel secure. But what I quickly learned is that, much like us adults, babies need a calm space to signal that it’s time for sleep. Bright lights and loud noises only disrupt their ability to wind down.
Imagine trying to fall asleep after a noisy day with the lights blaring around you. You’d probably toss and turn for a while before finally drifting off. For babies, the overstimulation from bright lights and loud sounds can make it harder for them to relax and enter that peaceful sleep state. They might become irritable or have trouble settling in for the night. Over time, these disruptions can create sleep associations, where your baby starts to associate sleep with being restless or overstimulated.
Take it from me—if you want your baby to sleep peacefully, avoid the temptation to have bright lights or sounds around them at bedtime. Instead, aim to create a peaceful environment that encourages sleep from the moment they settle into their crib.
Tip: Use Soft Lighting, White Noise Machines, or Gentle Music to Help Soothe Your Baby
Creating the right environment doesn’t mean you have to make everything pitch dark and silent. There’s a delicate balance that helps your baby feel comfortable while still signaling that it’s time for rest. Here’s where soft lighting, white noise, and gentle music come into play.
Soft lighting can work wonders. A dim nightlight or a soft lamp that doesn’t shine too brightly can give your baby just enough light to feel secure without disrupting their ability to sleep. Many babies find the darkness a little intimidating at first, so a gentle nightlight can create a sense of comfort and safety. I’ve used soft, dim lighting in the nursery, and it helped my little ones feel calm without the harshness of overhead lights.
White noise machines, on the other hand, can be a game changer. The gentle hum of a white noise machine mimics the sound they heard in the womb, where the constant whooshing of blood flow and external sounds created a soothing backdrop. This familiar noise can help drown out household sounds like traffic or other kids playing, giving your baby a sense of security and consistency.
Another tip I found helpful was playing soft lullabies or ambient music. Choose calm, repetitive tunes or nature sounds—think rain or ocean waves—to create a peaceful atmosphere. These sounds work to soothe your baby, helping them transition into sleep with ease.
By setting up a sleep environment like this, you’ll be fostering an atmosphere that promotes restful sleep. Plus, both of you will likely get more sleep in the long run!
Entity: White Noise Machines Can Aid in Creating a Peaceful Atmosphere
White noise machines have been a lifesaver for many parents, and there’s a good reason for it. Experts agree that white noise can help babies sleep more soundly. The constant sound of white noise masks other disruptive noises in the house and provides a consistent auditory background. This consistency is key for babies, who, like adults, find routine and predictability reassuring.
Research shows that white noise can help babies fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. According to studies, the rhythmic, steady sound helps calm a baby’s nervous system and provides a soothing backdrop for sleep. I’ve used white noise machines in the nursery, and the difference was night and day. My babies seemed more relaxed, and I didn’t have to worry about sudden noises waking them up.
White noise machines come in a variety of styles—from simple devices that offer just a hum to more advanced ones that can play a range of sounds like rainfall, ocean waves, or even heartbeat rhythms. You don’t need an expensive one to see results, either. There are many affordable options that do the job just fine.
By creating a consistent, peaceful environment using white noise, soft lighting, and calming music, you can help your baby establish healthy sleep habits and improve both their sleep and yours.
3. Ignoring Baby’s Sleep Cues
What Are Sleep Cues? Subtle Signs Like Yawning, Rubbing Eyes, or Fussiness
You know how we all have our own ways of showing we’re tired—maybe we rub our eyes, yawn a few times, or start to feel cranky? Babies do the same thing, except their cues are sometimes a little more subtle. These early signs that your baby is getting sleepy are called “sleep cues.” Recognizing them early can make a huge difference in how smoothly bedtime goes.
I remember the first time I noticed my baby yawning just a little more often and rubbing their tiny eyes. I wasn’t sure at first if it was a sign of tiredness or just their usual exploration of their hands. But then I saw the little frown forming on their face, the slow, heavy eyelids that would blink in slow motion. That’s when it clicked—I needed to act quickly before the frustration and overtiredness took over.
Some common sleep cues include:
- Yawning: A classic sign of tiredness. If your baby starts yawning, it’s time to start winding down.
- Rubbing eyes or face: This is often an unconscious sign that they’re trying to soothe themselves.
- Fussiness or pulling at ears: This could mean they’re trying to tell you, “I’m tired, but I don’t know how to say it!”
- Staring off or glazing over: This might look like they’re spacing out. It’s actually a way they disconnect from overstimulation, signaling sleepiness.
The more you tune into these cues, the better you’ll get at reading your baby’s signals and responding to them before they become overtired.
Common Mistake: Putting Your Baby to Bed Too Late or Too Early
As parents, we sometimes get caught up in the whirlwind of daily life. Between feeding, playtime, and chores, it’s easy to misjudge when the right time for bedtime is. Putting your baby to bed either too late or too early can disrupt their natural rhythm, and both can lead to difficulties falling asleep.
When you wait too long to put your baby to bed, they become overtired, and it’s almost like their body gets an adrenaline rush to stay awake. Imagine trying to sleep when you’re already wired from a long day—you might toss and turn for hours. That’s what happens when babies get overtired. They might cry, resist sleep, or take longer to fall asleep, leaving both of you frustrated.
On the other hand, putting your baby to bed too early can also cause problems. If they’re not quite ready to sleep, they might take a while to settle or wake up too early, which can throw off their entire routine. Finding that sweet spot between too early and too late can feel tricky, but trust me, it’s worth the effort.
A good rule of thumb is to start the bedtime routine when you notice those early sleep cues. Ideally, this should be 15–30 minutes before they’re fully exhausted. Timing is everything, and once you hit that sweet spot, bedtime becomes smoother for both of you.
Tip: Learn to Recognize When Your Baby Is Getting Tired and Start the Routine Before They’re Overtired
I’ve found that the key to avoiding an overtired baby lies in recognizing those early signs and acting on them before the meltdown begins. The moment I see my baby rubbing their eyes or yawning, I start thinking about the bedtime routine. Why? Because once they reach the overtired stage, getting them to sleep becomes a major uphill battle.
Here’s a simple trick: start your baby’s bedtime routine when they first show signs of tiredness. It’s much easier to help them fall asleep when they’re calm and not overly irritable. This could mean dimming the lights, playing some soft music, or giving them a warm bath—anything that signals the end of the day and prepares them for sleep.
If you wait too long, though, your baby’s body might enter into an “overtired” state, and that’s when things can get tricky. An overtired baby may cry harder, move restlessly, or even resist being swaddled. That’s a sign that you missed the window and now you’re dealing with a very tired, upset little one.
Remember, babies thrive on routine, and knowing when to start the process can make bedtime peaceful and enjoyable for both of you.
Entity: Baby Sleep Consultants Often Emphasize the Importance of Sleep Cues
Baby sleep consultants are experts in understanding how babies sleep and what factors influence their ability to rest well. Many sleep consultants emphasize the importance of sleep cues as the foundation of a healthy bedtime routine. Recognizing and responding to these cues is key to helping your baby sleep through the night.
The good news is that you don’t have to be an expert to spot these signals—after a few weeks of practice, you’ll likely start noticing patterns in your baby’s behavior. Sleep consultants often recommend establishing a consistent sleep environment and routine that aligns with these cues. This consistency helps babies feel secure and reinforces the connection between sleep cues and bedtime.
Several studies and experts agree that understanding sleep cues is one of the most effective ways to help your baby develop healthy sleep habits. Baby sleep consultants, like those at the Sleep Foundation, advocate for creating an atmosphere of calmness and predictability, helping babies learn when it’s time for bed. Over time, your baby will begin to associate those subtle sleep cues with the comforting routine you’ve set up, making bedtime less stressful for both of you.
4. Skipping Soothing Techniques
The Importance of Calming Rituals: How a Calming Routine Signals Bedtime
When it comes to bedtime, babies thrive on predictability. A calming ritual or routine can act like a gentle signal to your little one that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Just like how adults might have a nighttime routine—maybe you drink a warm cup of tea, read a book, or dim the lights—babies benefit from rituals that help them transition from daytime energy to a peaceful sleep state.
For example, think of the calming ritual as the “bookend” of your baby’s day. Imagine starting with a soothing bath, followed by soft music or lullabies. These consistent actions create a sense of security. Over time, your baby will start to associate the routine with sleep, and that association will help them settle down with ease.
It’s amazing how simple actions can create such a calm atmosphere. I’ve seen it firsthand with my baby—whenever I swaddle and gently rock them while playing calming sounds, they know bedtime is near. Before long, the peacefulness of the routine becomes almost automatic, making bedtime feel less like a struggle and more like a soothing transition into rest.
Common Mistake: Not Using a Consistent Soothing Method Like Swaddling or Rocking
A common mistake many parents make is not sticking to one reliable method of soothing their baby at bedtime. This inconsistency can leave your little one feeling uncertain and possibly even more agitated. One night you might rock them to sleep, the next night you might try something else, and then on the third night, you’re not sure whether to swaddle or use a pacifier. Your baby needs a little routine of their own to recognize that bedtime is here.
I get it—sometimes you just want to try a new method, or maybe you’re feeling desperate for a solution, but babies thrive on repetition. When they know what to expect, they feel more secure. It’s like they’re saying, “Ah, this is the part where I get ready for a peaceful rest.”
Whether it’s swaddling, gentle rocking, or soothing sounds, keeping your methods consistent will create a calming environment. For instance, if you find that gentle rocking helps them settle, try doing that every night. Or if swaddling helps them feel secure, make it part of your evening routine. The key is that whatever method you choose, keep it steady and predictable.
Tip: Try Swaddling or Using a Pacifier to Comfort Your Baby Before Bed
A calming bedtime routine isn’t just about lighting and soothing sounds; the physical comfort you provide can work wonders too. Swaddling, for example, is a tried-and-true technique that many parents swear by. The snug feeling reminds babies of being in the womb, offering them a sense of security that encourages peaceful sleep.
I’ve personally found that swaddling works like magic for newborns. A soft, snug wrap helps them feel safe and settled, reducing the likelihood of startled reflexes that might wake them up. But I know swaddling isn’t always a one-size-fits-all solution—sometimes babies prefer something a bit more soothing like a pacifier.
Pacifiers can be an incredible comfort tool when it comes to calming your baby before bed. Sucking is a natural instinct for babies, and a pacifier can mimic that calming motion. Plus, pacifiers can also help babies self-soothe, which might mean they can fall asleep more quickly and stay asleep longer. Some babies may find comfort in both swaddling and pacifiers, while others may prefer just one.
Remember, the goal is to find something that works consistently. Try swaddling and pacifiers in combination or separately, and see what resonates best with your little one. In time, you’ll learn to recognize the signs that they’re ready to settle into sleep, and you’ll be able to provide the soothing comfort they need.
Entity: Swaddling Is a Commonly Used Technique to Help Newborns Feel Secure and Fall Asleep Faster
Swaddling isn’t just an old-fashioned trick—it’s backed by science and is one of the most commonly recommended techniques to help newborns feel secure and fall asleep faster. Pediatricians and sleep experts often advocate for swaddling as it mimics the tight, cozy environment of the womb. This helps babies feel contained and secure, which makes it easier for them to settle down.
When done correctly, swaddling can reduce the frequency of startle reflexes that can disturb your baby’s sleep. It’s not just about keeping them snug—it’s about helping them feel like they’re still in the familiar space they’ve known for the past nine months. This sense of comfort leads to better sleep and may even extend their nap times.
However, always remember to follow safe swaddling practices—make sure the swaddle is snug around the arms but leaves enough room for the hips and legs to move freely. Experts warn against swaddling too tightly, as it could restrict movement and be uncomfortable for your baby. The goal is comfort and security, not constraint.
Swaddling has stood the test of time as one of the simplest, most effective ways to help newborns feel calm and settled. Many sleep consultants recommend it as part of the bedtime routine because it creates a sense of familiarity that allows your baby to relax and transition smoothly into sleep.
5. Not Following Safe Sleep Guidelines
Safe Sleep Practices: Following Recommendations to Reduce the Risk of SIDS
When it comes to putting your newborn down for the night, safety is always the top priority. As a parent, it’s natural to want to create the most comfortable environment for your baby, but comfort should never compromise safety. That’s where safe sleep practices come into play. These guidelines are not just a set of rules; they are life-saving measures designed to minimize the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
SIDS is every parent’s worst nightmare, but thankfully, following the recommended sleep practices can significantly reduce the risks. One of the most important steps is always placing your baby on their back to sleep. This position has been shown to lower the likelihood of suffocation or strangulation, which are potential causes of SIDS.
Another key safe sleep practice is ensuring your baby’s sleep surface is firm and free from soft bedding. A mattress that is too soft could pose a suffocation risk, while loose blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals can obstruct your baby’s airways. Instead, opt for a sleep sack or wearable blanket to keep your baby warm without the risk of suffocation. Trust me, as a mom, I’ve often seen the temptation to add soft blankets to make the crib “cozier,” but the peace of mind that comes with following safe sleep practices is worth far more.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has laid out clear guidelines on safe sleep, and when followed, these simple practices can make a huge difference. These steps aren’t just suggestions—they’re essential actions to ensure your baby gets the safest sleep possible.
Common Mistake: Unsafe Sleeping Arrangements (e.g., Pillows or Blankets in the Crib)
One of the most common mistakes parents make is thinking that a plush, cushioned environment is best for their baby’s crib. As loving as it may feel to add soft pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals, these items pose serious risks to your newborn’s safety. We all want our babies to be comfortable and cozy, but that comfort shouldn’t come at the expense of their safety.
Imagine this: you’ve just swaddled your baby and tucked them into a cozy crib with all the fluffy blankets and stuffed animals you’ve bought for them. The nursery looks adorable, and it feels like you’ve created a little haven for your baby. But here’s the thing—those extra blankets and pillows could obstruct your baby’s airways and cause them to suffocate, even if they don’t seem to be in harm’s way at first.
I’ve seen this in many households, and it’s a mistake that’s often made out of love. But the truth is, those soft materials could make it harder for your baby to breathe or move safely during sleep. The AAP strongly advises that cribs be free from pillows, blankets, or anything that might interfere with your baby’s ability to breathe freely.
Instead, go for a firm mattress and keep things simple. A fitted sheet and perhaps a sleep sack or wearable blanket are all you need to keep your baby comfortable and safe. Keeping the crib minimal and clear of extra items is the best way to prevent any risk.
Tip: Follow Safe Sleep Guidelines – Always Place Your Baby on Their Back to Sleep
It’s the most important tip when it comes to your baby’s sleep: always place your baby on their back to sleep. I can’t emphasize this enough. Research has shown that this simple step drastically reduces the risk of SIDS, and it’s something every parent can do with just a little mindfulness.
The back-sleeping position is the safest, as it helps keep the airway open and prevents your baby from rolling into positions that might be dangerous. When babies sleep on their stomachs or sides, their airways are more likely to become obstructed, and this increases the risk of suffocation. I know it might feel tempting to lay your baby down in different positions, especially when they’ve just had a good burp or are looking extra cozy in your arms. But trust me, once you start following the back-to-sleep rule from the start, it becomes second nature.
If your baby has trouble with reflux or seems fussy when placed on their back, it’s understandable to feel concerned. But you can rest assured that the back-sleeping position has been shown to be the safest for all babies, and there are plenty of tips and tricks to help with reflux discomfort. Try elevating their crib mattress slightly or ensuring they’re in a calm, relaxed state before sleep.
Entity: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Guidelines on Safe Sleep
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is a trusted source when it comes to infant health and safety, and their guidelines on safe sleep should be at the forefront of every parent’s mind. The AAP has extensively researched SIDS and other sleep-related issues and offers clear recommendations to make sleep as safe as possible for newborns.
According to the AAP, babies should always be placed on their back to sleep, on a firm mattress, and in a crib free from any soft bedding. The guidelines also emphasize the importance of room-sharing without bed-sharing. This means that while your baby should sleep in the same room as you for the first six months of life, they should have their own safe sleep space, such as a crib or bassinet.
Following these guidelines reduces the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related dangers, and the AAP continues to advocate for safe sleep environments through public education and outreach. So, when in doubt, remember that these guidelines exist to help keep your baby as safe as possible during the most vulnerable time in their life. Trust the experts and follow the guidelines—it’s the safest choice for your little one.
Conclusion
As a mother and teacher, I’ve come to learn that establishing a consistent, soothing bedtime routine for your newborn is crucial—not only for their sleep but for your own peace of mind too. The right routine helps your baby feel secure, know what to expect, and drift off peacefully to sleep. When you avoid common mistakes like inconsistent sleep schedules, noisy environments, or unsafe sleep practices, you’re setting both you and your little one up for better nights ahead.
Patience is key as you establish your routine. It may take some time, but once you find what works for your baby, you’ll see the benefits—both for your baby’s sleep and your own. Stick with it, and soon enough, bedtime will feel like a breeze, and everyone will rest easy.
FAQ
Q1: What is the best time to start a bedtime routine for a newborn?
Ideally, you should start a bedtime routine around 6-8 weeks of age. At this stage, your baby is starting to develop more regular sleep patterns, and creating a consistent routine can help them adjust. A calming bedtime ritual can signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down, which is essential for developing good sleep habits.
Q2: How long should my newborn’s bedtime routine be?
Keep it simple and short—around 15 to 30 minutes. Babies are still learning to regulate their sleep cycles, so a quick, calm routine works best. A few minutes of quiet time, some gentle rocking, or a soothing song will go a long way. The goal is to make the routine predictable and relaxing, not to overwhelm your baby with too much stimulation.
Q3: Can I use a pacifier to help my newborn sleep?
Yes, using a pacifier can be a great addition to your baby’s bedtime routine. It helps soothe them and may even reduce the risk of SIDS when used during naps and nighttime sleep. Just make sure the pacifier is safe for newborns and that you always remove it once your baby falls asleep to avoid any choking risks.
Q4: Is it okay to co-sleep with my newborn?
Co-sleeping is a personal choice, but it’s important to follow safe sleep guidelines if you do. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep in the same room as their parents, but not in the same bed. Co-sleeping increases the risk of suffocation, falls, or other accidents. Instead, consider using a bassinet or crib placed close to your bed for easy access while ensuring a safe sleep environment.
For reliable safe sleep guidelines, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics. Their recommendations help reduce SIDS risk and create a safe sleep environment.