Sears vs. Science

Dr. Sears’ guidelines don’t always reflect the consensus from medical science. Here’s how the two line up on some key points

Breast-feeding

WHAT SEARS SAYS

Breast is best, and babies should feed on demand and, if it’s O.K. with Mom, into toddlerhood.

WHAT SCIENCE SAYS

Little argument here–even concerning how long to nurse. The American Academy of Pediatrics agrees that frequency and duration are for Mom and baby to determine.

Responding to cries

WHAT SEARS SAYS

Parents should respond to all cries immediately, since excessive crying can damage the brain and lead to developmental disorders.

WHAT SCIENCE SAYS

Sears’ advice is alarmist. Allowing a baby to cry for brief periods will not cause brain damage.

Co-sleeping

WHAT SEARS SAYS

Bassinets that attach to the side of the parents’ bed are fine–but so, argues Sears, is sharing the bed with the baby.

WHAT SCIENCE SAYS

Bed sharing can be deadly. A sleeping adult can crush or suffocate a baby; the risk of SIDS increases as well.