As for co-sleeping, I plan on co-sleeping with my children because my mother co-slept with all three of hers. We all grew up to be very independent, and since my sibling’s father worked the graveyard shift at the time, it was easier to be in the same room as her children when they needed adjustment or feeding throughout the night. My mom grew up in the Philippines, where co-sleeping with little ones was extremely common. After learning about the risk factors for SIDS, I plan on co-sleeping with my child using extreme caution. I will not use soft pillows or blankets and possibly will use a bedside bassinet with a tight, firm mattress. Since risk factors of SIDS and co-sleeping are more likely to be associated with other factors such as inattentiveness or alcohol/drug abuse, I will feel comfortable co-sleeping with my baby (McKenna & McDade, 2005).

These are only my own opinions, however, and perhaps these thoughts will change when I do become a parent and learn what works best for me. I believe solely in not judging other parents’ choices unless abuse or neglect is involved. No one is a perfect parent.