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An action parents commonly take at bedtime with their infants may pose risks, experts warn.

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In the initial months, infants sleep up to 20 hours daily and require a safe sleep environment. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns against common bedtime mistakes, particularly the dangers of blankets and positioning devices that can lead to suffocation. Instead, parents are encouraged to use portable blankets or swaddle their babies securely, ensuring they can safely sleep on their backs. Proper technique in swaddling is crucial, and it should be discontinued once the child can roll over.

In the early stages of life, infants spend a substantial amount of time sleeping, often averaging up to 20 hours each day. During this period, they are unable to differentiate between day and night, making adequate rest essential. To ensure that your baby enjoys peaceful slumber, their crib must be a secure environment where they feel safe. Not only should the crib comply with safety regulations, but it’s also crucial to follow specific guidelines to prevent injuries during sleep.

To reduce the risks associated with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and choking while asleep, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has provided a set of guidelines via TheBUMP media for ensuring safe sleep for your baby. This guidance highlights common mistakes parents make at bedtime that could jeopardize their child’s safety. Here’s a significant precaution to take when settling your baby into their crib.

What potentially harmful practice should you avoid?

When tucking your baby into bed, it’s natural to want to cover them with blankets to prevent them from getting cold. However, using blankets poses a risk of suffocation during sleep. The AAP advises that the only items permitted in your baby’s crib should be the mattress and a fitted sheet. Introducing blankets, pillows, or a collection of stuffed animals can be dangerous, as your child may become tangled and face risks of choking or strangulation.

The AAP also discourages the use of positioning devices within the crib, which can elevate the suffocation risk. As Cara Dumaplin, a neonatal nurse and founder of Taking Cara Babies, explains, “Some parents consider positioning devices beneficial for babies with reflux, but research indicates that even these infants are safer sleeping on their backs.” Furthermore, it’s vital to keep any cords or wires away from the crib to prevent strangulation, including those from baby monitors that might become entangled.

So, how can you keep your baby warm at night?

Ensuring nothing else is in the crib doesn’t mean your baby has to be chilly. To keep your little one warm, consider using a sleep sack. This type of blanket comes in the form of a cloth bag, potentially with arm openings, allowing you to snugly fit your child without the risk of covering their face and causing choking.

Additionally, swaddling can be a great option for bedtime. While not every baby enjoys being swaddled, this technique can be highly effective for maintaining warmth and comfort throughout the night. The AAP recognizes swaddling as one of the safest sleeping methods since it keeps the limbs contained, reducing the likelihood of choking. It is known to help babies sleep more soundly, as the swaddle mimics the comfort and security of the womb. If you choose to use this method, ensure it is done correctly to avoid making the swaddle too tight. Cara Dumaplin suggests a swaddle with a zipper or Velcro closure, as they are less prone to shifting than traditional blankets. Always lay your baby on their back, ensuring their hips can move comfortably within the swaddle. “Even with a properly fitted swaddle, parents should be able to slide a hand between the swaddle and the baby’s chest, allowing them the freedom to breathe deeply.” Ultimately, swaddling should be a temporary practice. Once your baby starts rolling over, it’s important to discontinue swaddling to allow them to return to their back safely during sleep.

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