Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, which used to be known as ‘cot death’ is, unfortunately, a very real experience for some parents, leaving them in deep grief and even guilt that somehow, perhaps, their baby’s death could have been prevented.
The real cause of SIDS remains unknown.
Some generally accepted practices for safely sleeping your baby may help to ensure your baby’s well-being:
– Put your baby to sleep on his/her back, never on the stomach.
– Ensure your baby’s head and face are uncovered.
– Avoid loose bedding, soft bumpers or toys which can be pulled over the baby’s face.
– Have your baby in their own safe sleeping environment in your room for the first 6-12 months.
– Avoid smoking around your baby.
The SIDS and Kids website (http://www.sidsandkids.org/) offers much information about this topic and has many articles on safe sleeping for your baby: http://www.sidsandkids.org/safe-sleeping/
At Angel’s Paradise Early Education Centre, our qualified and experienced staff are trained in safe sleeping practices for babies.
