I've been following this thread about the family bed and hope that we can
all keep an objective opinion on this subject when dealing with our Moms
and babies.  Please correct me if I am wrong, but I don't believe there is
any research out there as to whether this is the "best" way to parent and
support breastfeeding.  Many families I have worked with find this to be a
wonderful, positive experience.  I find that many mothers who work
full-time especially benefit from this closeness with their infants at
night.  Many full time stay at home Moms do need that break in the evening
away from their infants.  Also, as a mother of triplets, I am often asked
to speak to other mothers of triplets or more to help them with
breastfeeding.  Co sleeping with the parents is not always realistic with
three or more infants.  This topic has come up in the popular parenting
magazines, and I read an article, but can't remember the magazine or the
issues that outlined both styles of parenting (Sears vs. Ferber).  Even Dr.
Sears in response to a question in the book "300 Questions New Parents Ask
About Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Infant and Child Care" states on page 102
that "We support your feelings.  You honestly feel that for your particular
family situation, it is necessary for you to have this special time with
your husband at night to nurture the marriage, recharge your own batteries,
and be a more effective mother by day.  This decision is not selfish but
represents a realistic appraisal that the whole family would probably
function better if you have separate sleeping arrangements."

We should all remember to assess the family situation.  We support
breastfeeding and need to help mothers have positive, successful
experiences with breastfeeding.  There is not just one way to do that.

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