When Should You Stop Co-Sleeping? Age-by-Age Breakdown for Parents

May 15, 2025

Co-sleeping is a parenting choice that brings comfort, bonding, and a bit more sleep — especially in the early months. But as your baby grows, you might wonder: “When should we stop co-sleeping?” There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but this age-by-age breakdown will help you navigate the transition with confidence and care.

🐣 0–6 Months: The Recommended Co-Sleeping Window

Safe co-sleeping — especially room-sharing without bed-sharing — is recommended during this stage.

✅ Why it's OK:

Reduces the risk of SIDS (per the AAP)
Supports nighttime feeding
Helps newborns feel secure

🚫 Consider transitioning if:

Your baby starts rolling over consistently
Sleep quality is affected
You find it harder to rest

📝 Pro Tip: Use a co-sleeper bassinet attached to your bed for a safe, separate sleep space.

👶 6–12 Months: The Ideal Transition Window

Around 6 months, many parents begin transitioning their baby to a crib or their own room.

👍 Why this timing works:

Babies begin developing independent sleep skills
Reduces dependency on your presence
Helps everyone sleep better

🎯 Gradual steps:

Start with naps in the crib
Use a consistent bedtime routine
Consider staying in the room while they fall asleep

🧒 1–2 Years: Toddlers and Sleep Habits

Still co-sleeping? You're not alone! Many parents continue beyond infancy for bonding or convenience.

💡 At this stage:

Toddlers may become more attached to routines
Night wakings and separation anxiety are common
Transitioning can be more challenging — but still possible!

🌙 Tips to transition:

Introduce a toddler bed or floor bed
Create a calming nighttime ritual
Offer a comfort item like a special blanket or stuffed toy

🧠 3–5 Years: Establishing Independence

By preschool age, most children are developmentally ready to sleep independently.

🚩 You may want to stop co-sleeping if:

Your child resists sleeping alone out of habit
You or your partner are losing sleep
Your child is starting school soon

✅ Encouragement strategies:

Use reward charts for staying in bed
Offer positive reinforcement and praise
Gradually reduce the time you spend in their room at bedtime

💬 Is There a “Too Late” to Stop Co-Sleeping?

Not necessarily. Every family is different.

However, experts generally recommend helping children transition to independent sleep by age 5–6, to support healthy boundaries, sleep quality, and emotional development.

🧸 Remember: It’s not about guilt — it’s about finding what works best for your family and your sleep goals.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Whether you’re ready to end co-sleeping at 6 months or 3 years, trust your instincts — and your child’s cues. The key is to make the transition gradual, gentle, and consistent.

👉 Looking for support in creating a bedtime routine? Check out our blog: Creating a Bedtime Routine for Baby – The Secret to Better Sleep

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