There is nothing sweeter than a sleeping baby. Those tiny breaths. That little yawn. 💤 October is SIDS Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to learn a few easy habits that help your baby sleep safely, every nap and every night.
The good news? Safe sleep is simple. You don’t need fancy gear. You just need to know the basics.
What is SIDS Awareness Month?
SIDS stands for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It is the sudden, unexplained death of a baby under 1 year old, usually during sleep. October is set aside each year to help parents and caregivers learn ways to lower the risk. Most of those ways are free and easy to do at home.
What are the ABCs of safe sleep?
Doctors and baby experts use three easy letters to help parents remember:
- A is for Alone. Your baby sleeps in their own space. No pillows, blankets, toys, or people in the bed with them.
- B is for Back. Always lay your baby down on their back, for naps and at night.
- C is for Crib. Use a crib, bassinet, or play yard with a firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet.
Easy to remember, right? Share the ABCs with anyone who watches your baby.
What should go in my baby’s crib?
Only your baby, a firm flat mattress, and a tight fitted sheet. That’s it! Keep these out of the crib:
- Pillows and blankets
- Bumper pads
- Stuffed animals and toys
- Sleep positioners or wedges
An empty crib may look plain, but to your baby it’s the safest spot in the house.
Can my baby sleep in my bed with me?
Experts say it’s safest for your baby to sleep in your room, but not in your bed. Put the crib or bassinet close to your bed, ideally for at least the first 6 months. You can still reach over, check on your baby, and feed them easily.
Never sleep with your baby on a couch, sofa, or armchair. If you think you might fall asleep while feeding, feed on your bed instead, and move baby back to their own space when you wake up.
Is it okay if my baby falls asleep in a car seat or swing?
It happens to every parent! Car seats, swings, and bouncers are great while you’re awake and watching. But they are not made for sleep. When your baby falls asleep in one, move them to a flat crib or bassinet as soon as you can.
How warm should my baby be at night?
Babies can get too hot, so think light and comfy. A good rule is to dress your baby in about one more layer than you’re wearing. Instead of a loose blanket, try a wearable blanket or sleep sack. Skip hats indoors once your baby is home from the hospital.
What else helps lower the risk of SIDS?
- Get prenatal care during pregnancy.
- Keep your home and car smoke-free, during pregnancy and after baby comes.
- Breastfeed if you can. Any amount helps.
- Offer a pacifier at nap and bedtime. If you’re breastfeeding, wait until feeding is going well. If it falls out after baby is asleep, that’s okay.
- Keep up with well-baby checkups and talk with your baby’s doctor about vaccines.
Does safe sleep mean my baby should never be on their tummy?
Not at all! Babies need tummy time while they are awake and you are watching. It builds strong neck and shoulder muscles. Here are some fun ideas:
- Lie on the floor face-to-face and make silly faces.
- Place a baby-safe mirror in front of them.
- Lay your baby on your chest and sing a song.
- Have big brothers and sisters shake a rattle or read a picture book.
Start with a few minutes at a time, a few times a day. Every little bit counts!
What if Grandma says, “We did it differently”?
That’s very common! Safe sleep advice has changed over the years as we’ve learned more. You can kindly say, “Our doctor told us babies should sleep alone, on their back, in a crib.” Sharing this post with family and babysitters can help everyone be on the same page.
Where can I get free parenting help in Eufaula, AL?
You don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. The Pregnancy Resource Center in Eufaula offers free, confidential support for moms and dads, including:
- Free, medical-grade pregnancy tests
- Free prenatal, childbirth, and parenting classes
- Free fatherhood classes for dads
- The chance to earn baby items just for attending classes
We’d love to meet you! Call us at (334) 687-0715 or make an appointment online. We’re at 604 S. Eufaula Avenue in Eufaula, AL. Here, you are seen, heard, and respected.
Safe Sleep: Quick Answers
What position should a baby sleep in?
Always on their back, for every nap and every night.
Can I put a blanket in my baby’s crib?
No. Use a sleep sack or wearable blanket instead.
Should my baby sleep in my room?
Yes. Room-sharing without bed-sharing is safest, ideally for at least the first 6 months.
Is it safe for my baby to sleep in a swing or car seat?
No. If your baby falls asleep in one, move them to a firm, flat crib or bassinet.
When can my baby do tummy time?
Anytime they’re awake and you’re watching. It helps them grow strong.
This post shares general information and is not medical advice. Please talk with your baby’s doctor about any questions about your baby’s sleep or health.
