Dad’s Choice With Sleeping Newborn Could Have Been Risky—Now, Mom Seeks Advice on How to Address It

When caring for a newborn, parents often face a steep learning curve and the necessity of trial and error. While some mistakes are inevitable, one dad’s decision has been widely criticized as negligent and potentially dangerous.

The father left his newborn unattended for two hours in a car seat, positioned away from him. During this time, he worked across the room, citing a need for privacy. Although he had offered to take care of the baby so his partner could have some time to herself, the mother was shocked to discover that the baby was left in the car seat for the entire duration. When she pointed out the risks of this behavior, the dad dismissed her concerns, insisting the baby was fine and there was no issue.

In an update, the dad explained that he simply wanted some “me time” and that he was under no obligation to work during that period. On top of leaving the baby unattended, he also left the house to walk the dog.

The situation sparked intense reactions from many, who criticized the dad’s actions. Some pointed out the dangers of babies being left in car seats for prolonged periods, including the risk of positional asphyxiation, where babies can suffocate quietly without gasping for air. Others questioned the dad’s decision to leave the baby alone at all, pointing out that in many states, leaving a baby home alone is considered neglect.

Though some parents admitted to briefly leaving their babies in car seats, they emphasized the importance of keeping the baby within reach and never leaving them for extended periods. A few mentioned that they only did so for short stints while taking care of tasks like unpacking groceries or eating.

Safety experts, including those from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), strongly recommend that babies be placed on their backs to sleep in a safe sleep environment. Car seats, swings, and other seated devices are not advised for sleep, as they can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

While the father’s actions were deemed highly risky, it’s important to acknowledge that many new parents may not fully grasp the dangers of leaving a baby in a car seat for too long, especially when overwhelmed by the demands of parenting. In the past, many parents—including those who now know better—didn’t realize the risks, often because they were juggling multiple responsibilities while caring for their infant.

However, in this case, the dad didn’t appear to be struggling with work demands. His choice to leave the baby unattended was not an isolated mistake but rather a series of misjudgments that raised concerns about his understanding of his child’s needs. If he had expressed awareness of the dangers and shown some remorse, it might have reassured his partner and others about his future decisions.

Ultimately, all parents make mistakes, particularly in the early stages of parenting. If you find yourself concerned about your partner’s decisions, it’s crucial to openly communicate and address these issues together, ensuring that safety and well-being are always the top priorities.