Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month in October is an important time to raise awareness about safe sleep practices and reducing the risk of SIDS in babies under
12 months old. Parents put a lot of effort into ensuring their babies' safety, especially during sleep, when the risk of SIDS is greatest.
There are several key tools and practices that can help parents identify and reduce risks:
Safe Sleep Environment:
Firm Mattress: Babies should sleep on a firm and flat mattress with a fitted sheet.
Back to Sleep: Always place your baby on their back to sleep for naps and nighttime.
Crib Safety: The crib should be free of blankets, pillows, bumper pads, and toys to reduce the risk of suffocation.
Room Sharing (Not Bed Sharing):
Keeping the baby’s crib or bassinet in the same room as the parents for at least the first six months can reduce the risk of SIDS by up to 50%, and ease middle of the night feedings for you.
Be mindful of not putting your baby to sleep IN your bed. Soft mattresses, pillows and blankets are all risks of suffocation.
Wearable Technology:
Baby Monitors and Smart Sleep Devices: There are wearable monitors and mattresses that track a baby’s breathing, heart rate, and sleep patterns. These can alert parents to potential dangers, though they should not replace safe sleep practices.
Sleep Sacks: Wearable blankets help keep babies warm and cozy instead of blankets.
Temperature Control:
Babies should not overheat during sleep. A room temperature of 68–72°F (20–22°C) is ideal, and dressing them in light layers is recommended.
Keep your baby's room the same temperature you keep your room.
Using a sleep sack or swaddle instead of blankets is a safe way to keep your baby warm without the risk of overheating or suffocation. When checking if your baby is too warm, feel the back of their neck or chest—if they feel sweaty or hot, they may be overheating, and it's time to adjust their clothing or the room temperature.
These tools and strategies can provide peace of mind and help reduce the risk of SIDS. Be sure to consult your pediatrician or healthcare provider to make sure you're following the most up-to-date SIDS guidelines.
If you have any questions or concerns about your baby's sleep or toddler behavior challenges, please reach out at any time.
Sweet Dreams! 😴👶
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