Safe Sleep Guidelines for Babies: Creating a Consistent Sleep Schedule and Safe Sleep Guidelines Explained
As a pediatric physical therapist, I am often asked by caregivers and parents about the best practices for ensuring a safe and sound sleep environment for their little ones. As the owner of a small business dedicated to the well-being of babies and families, providing my clients with information on all things babies is very important to me. The American Academy of Pediatrics published guidelines on safe infant sleep which will be discussed here. I will explain these guidelines, but always empower families to choose what is best for their family. Research has shown that adhering to the Safe to Sleep guidelines reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
1. Place Baby on a Flat and Firm Surface:
To ensure a safe sleep environment, provide a flat and firm surface to place your baby to sleep on. Opt for a bassinet or crib with a firm mattress that fits snugly, leaving no gaps that could pose a fall or suffocation hazard. It is ideal to use a mattress in good condition, with no dents, imprints, or lumps. A secure sleep surface not only reduces the risk of discomfort and injury, but also contributes to establishing a consistent sleep routine.
2. Back to Sleep:
Placing babies on their backs to sleep. Be careful to lower the head slowly to reduce the chance of setting off the startle reflex and waking the baby. Swaddling a baby before they show signs of rolling can help prevent the startle reflex from consistently waking the back while on their back. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends this sleeping position until babies reach one year of age. Back sleeping helps ensure the airways are kept free and open for breathing.
3. A Blanket and Pillow-Free Sleep Area:
A clutter-free sleep environment promotes safe sleep. Avoid placing blankets, pillows, and other loose bedding in your baby's crib or bassinet, as they can pose suffocation risks if they end up covering a baby’s airways. Instead, dress your baby in appropriate sleepwear for the room temperature. Consider using swaddles, sleep sacks, or wearable blankets as safer alternatives to traditional blankets. Pacifiers may be used and kept in the sleep area.
Benefits of a Consistent Sleep Schedule:
A consistent sleep schedule provides numerous benefits for babies and parents alike. Babies thrive on predictability and routine, and a consistent sleep schedule helps regulate their sleep-wake cycles. It promotes better quality sleep, improves mood, and enhances cognitive development. For parents, a predictable sleep schedule allows for better planning, rest, and overall well-being. While your newborn may not stick to the most consistent sleep schedule, over time you’ll find yourself recognizing sleep patterns based on their sleep cues.
Tips for Establishing a Consistent Sleep Schedule:
Establish a regular bedtime routine that includes calming activities such as a warm bath, soothing music, or gentle massage
Create a sleep-friendly environment by ensuring a dark, quiet, and comfortable room.
A sound machine can be a game-changer. It’s recommend to keep a sound machine at 70 decibels or below
Monitor your baby's sleep cues and adapt the schedule as needed to meet their individual needs
As a pediatric physical therapist and owner of Year One Wellness, I encourage caregivers and parents to prioritize safe sleep practices. However, back sleeping can increase the occurrence of head flattening and motor delays, especially if tummy time is not is not regularly performed throughout the day. It is important to incorporate tummy time into wake windows to foster motor strength and development, since babies are spending so much other time on their backs. If your baby is struggling with head flattening, head turn preference, or lack of comfortable tummy time, consult with Year One Wellness and we can guide you how to help your baby!
