Baby Sleep Safety and Importance | Essential Tips for Baby Development

Sleep safety is very important for babies, and it’s as easy as A, B, C: Alone, Back, and Crib.

A: Baby should always sleep ALONE. Parents and caregivers should never sleep in the same bed as baby. Nothing else should be in the crib; no blankets or loose bedding, bumpers, toys, or any other items. It should only be baby in their crib.

B: Baby should sleep on their BACK. Remember: back to sleep and tummy to play. Changing the direction that baby lies in their crib can help prevent flat spots on the head.

C: Baby should sleep in a CRIB (or bassinet). Some babies fall asleep in caregivers’ arms or on their chest. The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend this as there’s always a chance the caregiver could fall asleep too.

Newborns spend about 70% of their day asleep. While sleeping, newborns spend roughly 40-70% of their time in REM Sleep, which is important for baby’s learning and memory, brain development, and mood.