October is Safe Sleep and SIDS Awareness Month, a perfect time to remind families about safe sleep practices.

‍

Here are 10 tips to share with caregivers:

1. Always place the baby on their back to sleep at all times - for naps during the day and sleeping at night.
2. Place the baby on a firm sleep surface, such as on a safety-approved crib mattress, covered by a fitted sheet. Never place them to sleep on pillows, quilts, sheepskins, or other soft surfaces.
3. Keep soft objects, toys, and loose bedding out of the baby's sleep area.
4. Do not smoke around the baby or let others smoke around them either.
5. Keep the baby's bed close to, but separate from, where you and others sleep. If you bring them into bed with you to breastfeed, put them back in a separate sleep area, such as a bassinet, crib, cradle, or bedside co-sleeper (infant bed that attaches to an adult bed) when finished.
6. Think about using a pacifier when placing them down to sleep (because it has been shown to decrease the risk of SIDS), but don't force them to take it.
7. Do not let the baby get too hot while they sleep. Dress them in light pajamas, and keep the room at a temperature that is comfortable for an adult.
8. Avoid products like infant positioners and pillows that say they reduce the risk of SIDS. Most have not been tested for usefulness or safety.
9. Home monitors to reduce the risk of SIDS are not recommended. If you have questions about using monitors for other medical reasons, talk to your provider.
10. Start "tummy time" when the baby is alert and being watched. Avoid too much time in car seats, carriers, and bouncers.

‍

Click here for a handout you can give to families in your practice.