Parent Information
Creating Safe Sleep Environments for Babies
  • ABC's of Safe Sleep
    Always place baby to sleep...
  • Alone
  • On their Back
  • In a safety-approved Crib
  • The safest place for baby to sleep is in a room where others sleep, but not in a shared bed.
  • Baby should NEVER sleep on sofas, chairs, recliners, waterbeds, soft surfaces such as pillows,
   cushions, sleeping bags, sheepskins, or any bed with another adult or child.
  • Car seats and other sitting devices are not recommended for routine sleep.
  • Remove all soft, fluffy, loose bedding (including pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, sheepskins, etc.),
   toys and stuffed animals from the sleep area.
  • Bumper pads, wedges and positioners should not be used.
  • Make sure that baby is not too warm. Keep the room at a temperature that feels comfortable for a
   lightly clothed adult.
  • Keep baby’s head uncovered during sleep. Don't put baby to sleep wearing a hat,
   as this can result in overheating.
  • Consider using a wearable blanket to avoid loose blankets in the sleep area.
  • Breast feed, if possible.
  • Provide "Tummy Time" when baby is awake and supervised to help strengthen neck muscles
   and avoid flat spots on the head.
  • Consider using a pacifier when you place baby on her back for sleep. If baby is breastfed,
   wait until she is 1month old or is used to breastfeeding before using a pacifier.
  • Don't allow anyone to smoke around your baby including in your home or car.
  • Talk to grandparents, relatives, friends, babysitters, and child care providers about safe sleep and what works best to help
    baby fall asleep on her back EVERY TIME. Tell everyone who takes care of your baby to follow these important safe sleep
    practices.

For more safe sleep information visit the sites below:
CJ Foundation for SIDS
American Academy of Pediatrics
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
NICHD publications
Check out our New Parent/Caregiver Resource Page  Includes lots of helpful information and tips for new and/or expectant
parents/caregivers as well as prenatal care information.
Child Care Checklist for Your Baby (pdf)  
A checklist to help guide you through
the important decision making process
of selecting a child care facility/provider
that will keep your child healthy and safe.
Click here to view our Community Resource page
Includes lots of info. on local health & dental clinics,
local resources, car seat info. & much more!
Safe Sleep DVD/Video
Click on the links below to view the Safe Sleep DVD/Video
*If you would like a copy of the Safe Sleep DVD please contact the SIDS Network of KS.