KEY POINTS
- For first-time mum Lara Aoyogi, who grew up in the Philippines, co-sleeping felt like second nature. She shares that she naturally adopted the practice when her baby was born in Australia.
- Experts acknowledge that co-sleeping has benefits, such as promoting breastfeeding and fostering emotional closeness. Specialist GP Dr. Angelica Logarta-Scott points out that research supports the benefits. However, she also stresses the importance of adapting safe practices to minimise risks of sleep-related dangers.
- Co-sleeping is not widely accepted in Australia due to concerns about the potential risks to infant safety. Australian health guidelines emphasise the risks of co-sleeping, particularly for infants under six months old. According to research, sharing a bed with a baby increases the likelihood of SIDS, especially when certain risk factors—like soft bedding, overheating, or parents consuming alcohol—are present.
Dito sa Australia meron tayong 2–3-bedroom houses and may nursery na para sa anak. Sa Philippines, it was never a thing. When you’re born, you sleep with your parents until you’re 4 or 5 or until you say I don’t want to sleep with you anymore.First-time mum from Cairns, Lara Aoyogi
In Australia, ang recommendation is room sharing without bed-sharing to reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related dangers. Ang stand ko diyan is to remind parents about the risks. If they decide to co-sleep, very important ang safety.Specialist GP Angelica Logarta-Scott
'Usapang Parental' is SBS Filipino's segment on parenting. It features the stories of migrant families, parenting issues, raising kids, and parenting tips and advice from experts.
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Co-sleeping: An accepted practice in the Philippines, but not in Australia
SBS Filipino
05/12/202412:22
The content provided is for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute professional advice.
