Sleep - Babies and Parents
Given the intrinsic nature of sleep to our overall wellbeing it is vital that we spend time understanding and planning to meet the sleep and night time needs of all family members. Each family should be encouraged to find their own unique way of meeting both parents and children’s sleep needs.This is an evolving process and will change over the years in line with changing family needs.
One of the first questions new parents are often asked of their baby is, “how does he sleep?” Society often uses a baby’s sleep patterns to judge them as a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ baby. Infants are often expected to be sleeping independently for long periods at a very early age.The reality is however that babies and children need our closeness during the night as much as during their waking hours.
Co-sleeping can form an integral part of building bonds with our children.Co-sleeping is not necessarily about sharing a common bed but rather being within sensory proximity with our baby.This allows us to respond quickly and easily to our baby’s needs throughout the night.
In our sleep section you will find articles such as tips for safe sleeping, benefits of co-sleeping and the use of dummies as a comforter.
Co-sleeping, is it part of bonding? - article by Pinky McKay
Getting a Good Night's Sleep- Another Perspective. - article by Sarah Buckley
Independence Learnt? - article by Susan Stark
Night Creature - Sharing Mum's Bed - article by Rebecca Jacobson
Place Baby on Back to Sleep - on Belly to Play - article by Peter Walker
Safer Co-Sleeping - article by Judy Arnall
Sleeping With Our Baby: A Father's Experience - article by David McDonald
Ten Tips for Safe Baby Sleeping - article by Sarah Buckley
The Volcano Effect: Why Skipping a Nap Results in Meltdown - article by Elizabeth Pantley
What is Preventing Your Baby from Sleeping Through the Night? - article by Elizabeth Pantley
Why Use a Dummy? - article by Naomi Aldort
