Keep baby in bed

I am writing in response to the "Gimme Shelter" article ["Oh, baby: How to keep that infant safe," August 25] regarding baby proofing, which stated that parents should never share a bed with an infant.

I'm concerned that new parents who are co-sleeping with their babies might be discouraged from doing so after reading the advice from someone cited as an expert, but who may not be familiar with current research on this matter.

Mothers and babies have slept together throughout human history, and the U.S. is the only country where parents routinely put their babies to sleep alone. In addition, putting babies in cribs in separate rooms has been linked to an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Co-sleeping encourages breastfeeding and bonding and helps new parents get more sleep, since no one has to get up for nighttime feedings.

I hope that new and prospective parents will consider the many benefits of co-sleeping when they make the choice for their own families. Kelly Silliman
Charlottesville