It's generally recommended to wait until children are over eighteen months old before they co-sleep with a sibling for safety reasons. However, the best age to allow siblings to sleep together depends on several factors.
Factors to Consider Before Siblings Share a Bed
While eighteen months is a good starting point, consider these additional factors when deciding if your children are ready to share a sleep space:
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Age of Each Child: The age difference between siblings matters. A significant age gap could pose a risk to a younger, smaller child.
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Size Comparison: A large size disparity between siblings could be a hazard. An older, larger sibling could accidentally roll onto or smother a younger, smaller sibling.
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Developmental Stage: Consider each child's developmental milestones. Can the younger child roll over, sit up, and move around freely? These skills are crucial for self-rescue should they become uncomfortable or trapped.
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Sleep History: Evaluate each child's sleep habits. Are they restless sleepers? Do they tend to kick or move around a lot in their sleep? These habits could disrupt the other child's sleep or even pose a safety risk.
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Individual Temperament: Consider each child's personality. Are they generally gentle and considerate of others? Or are they more rambunctious and unaware of their own strength?
Safety Recommendations
- Wait Until 18 Months: As mentioned, this is the minimum recommended age for co-sleeping siblings.
- Ensure Adequate Space: If sharing a bed, ensure it's large enough for both children to sleep comfortably without being crowded. A full-size bed is often preferable.
- No Pillows, Blankets, or Toys: Keep the sleep surface clear of any loose bedding, pillows, or toys that could pose a suffocation risk, especially for younger children.
- Monitor Regularly: Check on the children frequently, especially in the initial stages of co-sleeping.
- Teach Boundaries: Instruct older siblings on how to be gentle and respectful of their younger sibling while sleeping.
- Separate if Necessary: If you notice any safety concerns or if the children are consistently disrupting each other's sleep, separate them immediately.
The decision of when siblings can safely sleep together is ultimately a personal one that should be based on a careful assessment of each child's individual needs and development, prioritizing safety above all else.
