Rebornne Baby American Baby

Baby's Sleep Issues
All about baby's sleeping patterns and bedtime safety.

Family Bed Safety Tips
Make sure baby is safe when she sleeps in your bed.

Many parents -- especially nursing moms -- enjoy the closeness and convenience of sharing their bed with baby. Here are important safety tips to remember when creating your own family bed:

Make sure that your baby can't roll or fall off the sides. This is especially important when using a standard, off-the-floor bed.

Have young infants sleep between their mother and the bed rail. Don't have them sleeping between both parents or beside an older sibling.

Make sure that your mattress or futon provides a firm sleeping surface. Never, ever allow an infant to sleep on a waterbed, featherbed, beanbag, deep pillow-top mattress, or other inappropriately soft surface. This holds true for all babies, whether you use a family bed or not.

Never sleep with your baby if you're under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or prescription medication that makes you groggy or sleepy. People with decreased awareness pose a danger to the baby.

If you're obese, use a sidecar arrangement. It is safer than having a young infant in the bed with you.

Don't overload your bed with pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals. They can increase your baby's risk of suffering from strangulation.

Never fall asleep on a couch, sofa, or overstuffed chair with your baby. She could become wedged between the cushions and suffocate.

Don't stuff too many bodies into a bed with a small baby. If you share sleep with more than one child, adequate space is necessary for both comfort and safety.

Your should know:

The information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child's condition.