Safe Sleep for Your Baby

 

Eliminating Hazards

We know that it can be tempting to bring your baby to bed with you, or let your baby sleep in a bouncy seat just so you can get some rest. But the fact is that a baby dies every three days in Michigan and these deaths are 100% preventable.

According to Pediatrics (2017) nearly half of caregivers did not receive correct advice on safe sleep practices from their health care provider. Caregivers who received correct advice were less likely to place their babies to sleep on their stomach or side.

What is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)?

The sudden death of an infant less than 1 year of age that cannot be explained after thorough investigation is conducted. Although the causes of death in many of these infants cannot be explained, statistics show that as many as 80-90% are the result of unsafe sleep practices.

4 Steps to Sweeter Slumber for Baby:

A bedtime routine is so important! Establish one from the moment your little one comes home, and she’ll be more likely to sleep well later on.

1. Limit distractions- Babies need to wind down, just like you. So start switching gears (low lighting, little noise) about 30 minutes before bed.

2. Get in a habit- Choose a few activities, like a bath or book, to do each night. If feeding is part of that routine, do it first so Baby doesn’t rely on it to fall asleep. Put her to bed when she’s obviously drowsy, but still awake.

3. Try white noise- A simple machine is comforting, and you won’t have to whisper the rest of the night!

4. Stick with it- Put your baby to bed at the same time and in the same place each night. If you’re thrown off schedule because of a holiday or vacation, don’t worry. Just try to get back on track ASAP

 

4 Tips for parents and caregivers:

                                      

Unsafe sleep practices, inlcuding placing infants on a side or stomach sleep position, bed sharing and using soft bedding in a sleep enviroment (pillows, blankets and soft objects).

 

If you want more information and resources about safe sleep, see below:

Promoting safe sleep recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics. 

Supporting educational campaigns, such as the Safe to Sleep® campaign. 

Learn about safe sleep practices for your baby and talk to your healthcare provider.

 

 

 

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