As parents, we want to do everything possible to keep our children safe. SIDS is a complex issue and while we don’t know everything about it, we do know what types of behaviors can reduce the chance. Follow these tips to prevent SIDS.

1. Back to Sleep

The risk of SIDS is high when your baby sleeps on his stomach or side. These positions angle your baby’s face into the mattress, which can smother him. Every time you put your baby down to sleep, you must put him on his back. This applies to short nap times as well. Once your baby has learned to roll over on his own, don’t worry if he rolls around.

This is the single most important thing you can do to prevent SIDS.

2. Empty Crib

To prevent suffocation, it’s imperative that you lay your child down in an empty crib. That means no bedding, bumpers, toys, crib rail covers, or pillows. Each of these pose a smothering risk if your child rolls his face into them.

The only items that should be in the crib are a firm mattress with a tight fitting crib sheet and your baby. Dress and swaddle the baby properly for the temperature conditions in your home.

3. Overheating

Overheating may increase the chance of SIDS. Dress your infant in light, comfortable clothes that are suitable for the environment. Often this means a onesie and pajamas that cover the hands and feet. If you swaddle, wrap it snugly around baby so it can’t come loose and cover his face.

4. No Smoking

Babies born to women who smoked throughout their pregnancy are three times more likely to succumb to SIDS. Even after birth, second hand smoke increases the risk. Keep all smoking outside the home.

5. Breastfeeding

Experts don’t understand why, but breastfeeding your baby can cut the risk of SIDS in half. The leading theory is that breast milk provides immunological protection from infections that could increase the likelihood of SIDS.

6. Pacifier

Again, scientists don’t understand why, but there’s evidence that shows that using a pacifier prevents SIDS. Put the pacifier in your baby’s mouth when he falls asleep, but when it falls out, don’t reinsert it. Make sure to keep it clean and replace it if the nipple becomes damaged. Also, don’t force your baby to ever take the pacifier and never coat it with any substances.

7. Sleep Alone

Room-sharing is quite alright (and helps new parents have some peace-at-mind), but bed-sharing is definitely a no-no.

8. Tummy Time

Use tummy time to strengthen your infant’s neck, shoulders and core while he is awake. This way if he rolls into a vulnerable position during his sleep, he’ll have the strength to correct himself.

Guest Blog by Joanna von Yurt, Co-Founder and CEO of Swanling Innovations Inc.

Joanna von Yurt is the mother of three intelligent, sensitive, and compassionate girls (who all want to be mommies when they grow up). She is first AND foremost a mom! Professionally, however, she is an accountant, controller and serial entrepreneur.

Joanna has a degree in Psychology from Harvard University with an emphasis in child psychology. She worked as an infant caregiver for 12 years and interned as a Child Life Specialist, family/social therapist, and assisted in clinical studies involving children’s personality and social psychology.

Joanna has a lifelong passion for childcare and child safety. She enjoys sharing her experiences with other parents about sleep routines, attachment parenting, safe sleep guidelines, and children’s natural sleep patterns. Her company, Swanling Innovations, is committed to producing modern, safe and innovative products that meet the expectations of discerning parents. The Slumber Sleeper™ is a 4-in 1 safe sleep solution (mattress protector, flat sheet, fitted sheet and sleep sack all in one) designed to help keep your baby safe, warm and centered.

Joanna always says that a well-rested child and well-rested parents add up to a happy family!

Visit www.swanling.com for more information.

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