Sleeping Safely

The three things that belong in the crib are (1) a firm mattress, (2) a tight fitting sheet, and (3) your beautiful baby.

Keep these things OUT of the crib: pillows, quilts, comforters, stuffed toys, bumper pads, and other soft items.

In addition:

• Be sure your baby’s crib is in a smoke-free place.

• Do not place the crib near draperies or blinds where your baby could become entangled and strangle on the cords.

• Babies should sleep in a safe crib. Your baby’s mattress should be firm and snugly fit the crib. The space between the mattress edge and crib frame should not be more than the width of two of your fingers. Cover the mattress with a fitted bottom crib sheet. Avoid too many blankets.

• Consider clothing your baby in a sleeper instead of a blanket. If you do use a blanket, place your baby so that his feet are at the foot of the crib. Tuck a thin blanket around the crib mattress, covering only as high as your baby’s chest.

• Keep your baby from overheating. Never cover your baby’s head with a blanket. Keep your baby at a temperature that feels comfortable to you, about 68 to 72 degrees F.

• Do not overdress your baby. Watch for signs that he is too warm: sweating, damp hair, flushed cheeks, heat rash, or rapid breathing.

• Check the batteries in your smoke alarm. A good time to do this is when the time changes to daylight-saving time.

• Always place your baby on his back when he is in his crib.

Take Good Care of Yourself

You need energy and stamina to be a good parent, so do your best to be healthy in every area of your life.

Allow time each day for relaxation and exercise. The following exercises take only a few minutes and will help you feel refreshed.

• Lie flat on your back. Take a deep breath. Now, breathe out slowly. Repeat five times.

• Lie flat with your arms at your sides. Move your arms out to shoulder level, keeping elbows stiff. Raise your arms over your head and bring your hands together. Repeat five times.

• Lie flat and raise your head, touching your chin to your chest. Try not to move any other part of your body. Repeat a few times.

• Eat healthy foods. For more information on eating healthy, read Finding Your Way to a Healthier You(PDF).

Plan and take time for yourself. Find a friend or relative to watch your baby while you take time away. Do something that will refresh you and make you happy to be back home. Anything that makes you a happier, more enthusiastic person is bound to make you a better parent. Be kind to everyone, and take a “parenting break.”