When it comes to getting your little one to sleep, you might find yourself trying all sorts of things—from cradling them in a rocking chair to letting them snooze in a bouncer. But just because your baby drifts off in your arms, or even in a car seat or swing, doesn’t mean those are safe places for overnight sleep. According to the latest safe sleep guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), babies should sleep alone, on their backs, in a crib, playard, or bassinet that meets current federal safety standards.
These guidelines have become even more crucial following the recent passage of the Safe Sleep for Babies Act in May 2022. This legislation prohibits the manufacture and sale of bumper pads and inclined sleepers—products linked to numerous infant fatalities. It’s also essential to be aware that allowing your baby to sleep in rockers, swings, or bouncers poses significant risks. In fact, just last month, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) cautioned parents against letting infants sleep in rockers due to at least 13 reported deaths.
To ensure your baby’s sleep environment is safe, stick to a firm mattress in a safety-approved crib or bassinet. Remember, sharing your bed with your baby can be risky too, as it increases the chances of suffocation. If you’re looking for support through your parenting journey, check out Make a Mom for at-home insemination options, and learn how it works here.
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In summary, create a safe sleep environment for your baby by using a crib or bassinet that meets safety standards. Avoid letting them sleep in unsuitable places like rockers or swings, and consider exploring home insemination resources like Modern Family Blog for more insights on pregnancy and conception.