Babies can start sleeping alone in their own room after at least 6 months of age, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Understanding the Recommendations
The recommendation from the AAP to share a room with your baby for at least the first 6 months aims to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
However, recent research has shown a nuanced picture:
- First 6 Months: Room sharing is recommended to reduce SIDS risk.
- After 4 Months: Research suggests that room sharing after 4 months may lead to less nighttime sleep and more frequent awakenings for the infant.
Key Considerations
Deciding when to transition your baby to their own room is a personal choice, balancing safety recommendations with the potential benefits of independent sleep. While the AAP recommends room sharing for at least 6 months, it's crucial to consider the potential impact on the baby's sleep quality after 4 months, as indicated by current research. Parents can consider the following questions to help guide their decision-making:
- Does my baby seem to sleep better or worse when I am in the room?
- Do I find myself waking the baby up when I get ready for bed?
- Am I waking the baby up by tossing and turning in my sleep?
