Sleep
Room Sharing
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents room-share for six to twelve months , but do not share your bed . Room sharing means baby sleeps in a co-sleeper , bassinet or crib in your room . Only bring baby to your bed to feed or comfort , and put them back in their own sleep space when you will be sleeping .
Tummy Time
Newborns should always be put to sleep on their back . However , it is good for babies to have brief sessions of tummy time every day . Only do tummy time when they are awake and content , and while you are watching . Tummy time helps develop neck and shoulder muscles . It can also help prevent flat spots on the head .
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Safe Sleep Checklist
Research shows that these steps reduce your baby ’ s risk of SIDS ( sudden infant death syndrome ):
• Breastfeed , room share and always put babies on their back to sleep .
• Use a firm , flat sleep surface . Never let baby sleep on soft surfaces like a waterbed or beanbag .
• Do not allow plush items in the sleep area ( pillows , crib bumpers , stuffed animals , etc .).
• Do not allow smoking around your baby .
• Do not smoke , drink alcohol , or use marijuana or illegal drugs in pregnancy or after birth .
• Avoid overheating baby . Use light clothing and adjust the room temperature as needed .
• Never let baby sleep with pets or other sleeping people . Babies can be injured or smothered .
• Do not use a semi-inclined seat for sleep , such as a swing . These can cause baby ’ s head to fall too far forward and block their airway .
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Unsafe
Caring for Your Newborn 29