The safest position for your baby to sleep is on his or her back. Studies have shown that babies who sleep on their backs have a lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). In addition, both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the providers in this practice advise against cosleeping (sharing a bed with your baby) because having your baby sleep in a crib or a bassinet lowers the risk of suffocation as well as SIDS.
Your baby's crib or bassinet should have a firm, tight-fitting mattress with a well-fitting sheet that meets current safety standards. Do not place your baby on a waterbed, comforter, sofa, pillow, or any other soft surface for sleeping.
There should not be any loose blankets, pillows, or toys in your baby's crib. He may be swaddled in a blanket, but otherwise should not be covered with any loose blankets or comforters. Sleep sacks (blankets that babies are zipped into) are a good alternative for the winter months.
Your baby should not be overbundled, and the room should be kept at a comfortable temperature for a lightly clothed adult. Make sure your baby does not feel hot to the touch.
Parents often worry that babies will choke if they vomit or spit up while they are on their backs; however, infants may actually be more likely to choke if placed on their stomachs for sleep.
Even though babies should be placed on their backs to sleep, other positions should be used while they are awake. "Tummy time," placing your baby on her stomach on a firm, flat surface for a few minutes at a time during waking hours, helps develop your baby's muscles and helps prevent flattened areas on the back of her head. Tummy time should always be supervised, and if baby falls asleep she should be turned over and placed on her back.
Summary of AAP recommendations to reduce the risk of SIDS
* Place your baby on his back for sleep
* Use a firm sleep surface
* Keep loose bedding (including sheets, blankets, and pillows) and soft toys out of the crib
