Yes, twins can sleep together, especially when they are infants. Many sources support the practice of co-bedding for newborns and young infants.
Benefits of Twins Sleeping Together (Infants)
- Temperature Regulation: Sharing a cot helps regulate body temperature and sleep cycles. [Source: Multiple sources including Reddit, What to Expect forums, and the NHS]
- Soothing Effect: The presence of their twin can be soothing and improve sleep quality. [Source: Multiple sources including Reddit and What to Expect forums]
Considerations for Twins Sleeping Together
- Age: Co-bedding is generally considered safe for infants while they are small enough to fit comfortably in a single cot or bassinet. [Source: NHS and multiple other sources]
- Safety: Always ensure a safe sleeping environment, following safe sleep guidelines. As they grow, separate sleeping arrangements may become necessary. [Source: Multiple sources including the American Academy of Pediatrics, implied]
- Individual Needs: While many twins benefit from sleeping together, some may thrive better sleeping separately. Observe your twins’ behavior and adjust as needed. [Source: Reddit and other forums discussing individual experiences]
- Later Childhood/Adulthood: While infant co-sleeping is commonly discussed, the decision for older children and adults to share a bed is a matter of individual preference and consent. [Source: Quora discussion on older twins sharing a bed]
When to Separate Twins for Sleep?
Some sources suggest separating twins after a certain age (e.g., 10 weeks) to avoid co-dependency, but this is not a universal recommendation and depends greatly on individual circumstances. Parents should consult with their pediatrician to determine the best course of action for their specific twins. [Source: Reddit posts and other forum discussions]