M.Ed., RD, LDN, CLC, RYT-200
Andie is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Lactation Consultant, and Certified Personal Trainer who thinks of nutrition counseling as equal parts science and sensitivity. She specializes in lactation, sports nutrition, exercise fitness, and weight loss programs.
infant nutrition isn't easy. We can help.
In 1992 the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended that all infants be placed on their backs for sleep, which dramatically reduced the occurrence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The AAP continues to publish guidelines to address safe sleep concerns for infants through age 1 to lower the risk of SIDS, suffocation or entrapment. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines will help to keep your baby safe and happy, not to mention give you greater peace of mind:
Take special care in safely putting your baby to sleep when you yourself are sleepy
If you are drowsy, avoid feeding your baby in an armchair or couch to prevent an increased chance of entrapment or suffocation.And if you bring your baby into bed with you for a feeding, return her to her own sleep space before you dose off.
Talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby sleeping on her back
If your baby has a specific medical condition that might warrant a different sleeping position, your healthcare provider can make a recommendation after weighing the benefits and risks of the individual situation.
Review the sleep safety guidelines with your child’s caregivers
Tell anyone who is watching your child (grandparents, babysitters, day care providers) about the safe sleep environment guidelines. You’ll all want to be on the same page for safe sleep!
How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained. HealthyChildren.org. Date accessed 6 August 2018.