October is SIDS Awareness Month

October is SIDS awareness month. We are safety gurus here at NN and want to continue to pass on what we know!

What is SIDS?

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, more commonly known as SIDS, is when an unexplained death of an infant in less than a year usually occurs during sleep. The idea of SIDS for any parent is terrifying, but there are many measures you can take to ensure your baby is sleeping safely.

When placing a baby in a crib or bassinet, always put them on their back. BOB- Baby on Back! It’s tempting to bundle up your baby in a blanket and give them a fluffy lovie or stuffed animal to cuddle up with, but an empty bed is safest for your child. These items can interfere with your baby’s breathing by blocking their airway. It is recommended to have a bare crib until at least one year of age. Bonus, a plain-jane crib fosters excellent sleep too!

Infants tend to fall asleep in many different areas, like car seats, swings, or baby bouncers. As tempting as it is to let them sleep in these places, ensure your baby is sleeping on a firm surface, such as their crib or bassinet, unless they can be continuously supervised. Many parents believe it is okay for their

infant to nap in “baby loungers.” There have been recalls on many of these products, most recently identified as the popular Boppy Baby Lounger. Suffocation occurs quickly, and a baby’s neck is so supple. Children may lay on their side or back and suffocate in the cushiony fabric of the lounger or wiggle into a position making it hard to breathe. With sleep, it is essential to stick to previously mentioned best practices.

Offering a pacifier during nap/bedtime is a great way to soothe a crying baby, but new studies have shown that pacifiers can help reduce the risk of SIDS by 90%. Swaddling your baby also helps reduce their risk of SIDS and suffocation. Ensure your baby is swaddled safely, and make sure to transition to a sleep sack at the appropriate time.

Overheating is also a cause of unsafe sleep. A baby’s room temperature should be set between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Dress them in cool pajamas that are breathable and not too stuffy.

When it comes to safe sleep, there are no shortcuts. Always practice safety measures, and remember, We are always here to help! Visit our contact page to let us know how we can best support you and your baby’s journey to safe sleep.