Safe Sleeping Tips for Your Baby

By Cassidy Alexander, @MyCarolinaLife.com

There’s a lot of information out there about what’s best for your baby, but when it comes to sleep, the research is pretty clear: “Every sleep can be safe sleep,” says Dr. Lucretia Carter, a pediatrician with Tidelands Health Pediatrics.

Sudden infant death syndrome is the leading cause of death for infants between 1 and 12 months; 2,500 infants die from it each year. An unsafe sleeping position is one of the biggest risk factors, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

That’s why it’s important to follow the ABCs of safe sleep:

Alone

Babies should sleep alone in their own space. Don’t put stuffed animals, toys, pacifier clips or bumpers in their crib. Opt for onesies or wearable blankets over hats, pillows and blankets. And don’t place their crib or bassinet too close to window blinds or any electrical cords. Any of these items could be a choking hazard for your baby.

Back

Stomach or side sleeping is associated with an increased risk of suffocation. When it’s time for sleep, make sure babies are on their back. If they roll onto their stomach on their own, it’s not necessary to move them.

Crib

Babies should go to sleep on a non-inclined surface like a crib or a bassinet that has a tightly fitted sheet. Keep in mind that it’s best if a parent and baby share a room, not a bed. Falling asleep in the same bed or chair as your baby puts the the little one at risk of suffocation.

The more you practice safe sleep, the easier it’ll be. Try setting a timer during feedings so you don’t forget to put your baby back in the crib. And make it a habit to move your sleeping baby from the car seat or stroller to the crib as soon as possible.

“Putting your baby to sleep alone on their back and without any choking hazards is one of the best things you can do to help protect them,” Dr. Carter says.

Talk to your pediatrician if you have any concerns about the quality of your baby’s sleep.

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MyCarolinaLife.com is a news service of Tidelands Health.

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