The safest infant sleep positions...the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all newborn babies be put to sleep on their backs. There have been studies conducted that revealed placing a baby to sleep on his/her back can reduce the incidence of SIDS. Years ago, doctors and health care providers instructed the Mother to put their newborn to sleep on their stomach but researchers have now found out it's much better for a baby to sleep on its back to prevent SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

Here are several safe sleep ways that can be used to prevent your baby from suffering any danger while they're asleep:

(1) Choose a firm safety-approved sleep mattress for your newborn to sleep on. Use a fitted sheet that fits tightly over the mattress. Never use any type pillows, quilts, blankets, soft toys, pillow-like crib bumpers or other cluttered soft surfaces in the bed. Do not ever put your baby to sleep in a bed with one of these items.

(2) Place your baby in a sleeping position on his/her back for naps and at night. Every time you put your baby down for a nap be sure to put the baby in the back sleeping position for safety reasons.

(3) The baby's sleeping area should be in an area close to, but separate from where others sleep. If you are a person who falls off to sleep easily, do not breastfeed your baby in your bed, on a sofa, or a cot because you could fall asleep and smother your baby to death.

(4) Do not permit anyone to smoke around your baby. It is wise not to smoke before or after the birth of your baby.

(5) Do not over-dress your baby for bed, their clothing should be light sleep-wear and the room temperature should be at a comfortable temperature. Overheating can distrub the baby's sleep.

(6) If your going to allow your baby to have a pacifier, only give it to the baby if he/she wants to take it.

(7) Check on the baby frequently to ensure its safety is okay.

(8) If you are concerned about your baby getting flat spots on its head, place the baby on its stomach when it is awake and up with you. It is also helpful to prevent flat spots if you'll change the direction your baby lies in its crib.

When you have to get a babysitter to care for your baby, it is wise that you advise them of the safety habits you use for your baby. Tell them never to put your baby on its stomach to sleep and to never put a soft cuddley toy or anything else in the bed with your baby while it is sleeping.

Learn more about this author, Barbara Kasey Smith.
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