Helping your baby sleep safely and soundly. At Health First, we’re here to support you in creating a secure and nurturing sleep space for your baby. By following expert recommendations, you can ensure your little one sleeps soundly and safely—so you can rest a little easier knowing they’re protected.

The foundations of safe sleep. 

For your baby’s safety, place them on their back to sleep on a firm, flat surface like a crib or bassinet. Keep the sleep area free of soft bedding or toys.

To keep your baby safe during sleep, always follow the ABCs:

  • Alone – Your baby should sleep alone in their crib or bassinet. Avoid co-sleeping or bed-sharing.
  • Back – Place your baby on their back for every sleep. It’s the safest position for restful nights and naps.
  • Crib – Choose a crib that meets safety standards, with a firm mattress and a fitted sheet.

 

Safe sleep space essentials.

Babies spend a significant portion of their day sleeping—14 to 17 hours on average. To ensure your baby’s safety during this crucial rest, keep their crib free of pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals. Instead, use a wearable blanket or sleep sack to keep them warm without the risk of overheating. Creating a safe and comfortable sleep environment allows your baby to sleep soundly and securely.

 

Room sharing, not bed sharing. 

Your baby should sleep in the same room as you, but on a separate sleep surface. This setup can lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) while keeping your baby close for feeding or comforting.

 

Additional Safety Tips

  • Avoid overheating: Dress your baby in light sleepwear to keep them comfortable without overheating.
  • No smoking: Ensure your baby’s environment is smoke-free to reduce health risks.
  • Breastfeeding and pacifiers: Both can reduce the risk of SIDS, with pacifiers recommended for sleep once breastfeeding is well-established.

 

As your partner in wellness, Health First offers resources and expert guidance to support you through every stage of parenthood. From safe sleep practices to pediatric care, we’re here for your family. Explore the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) Safe Sleep Guidelines for more on protecting your baby’s sleep health.