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    Feb 27
    Blog: Safe Sleep Tips for Baby

    Kiah Kirk and two-day-old Bentley (Kirk) Burch have just joined all the moms and babies who are recipients of Saratoga Hospital Women’s Health Services’ new Gift Bag Program, co-sponsored by The Flower and Fruit Mission. Bentley is pictured here with his mother, modeling the safe sleep sack included in the gift bag. Along with a sleep sack and reusable purple tote, every mom also receives a “Your Baby’s First Year” book, a daily planner, and Vitamin D drops, which are essential in baby’s development of bones, teeth and overall health.   
      
    We understand how much parents worry about sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), which is why our skilled team in Women’s Health Services are committed to the safety and well-being of moms and babies at home as well as in the hospital. Our Safe Sleep Program provides parents with important safe sleep recommendations supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as the sleep sack to bring home with them.
     
    The recommendations include the use of a wearable blanket, such as a sleep sack. This eliminates the need for blankets and other soft bedding that might compromise baby’s breathing. The swaddle wrap is adjustable to suit your baby’s comfort—both arms in, one arm out, or both arms out. It wraps comfortably around pajamas and onesies, so you can keep baby warm with layers. Never dress baby too warmly for sleeping.

    Back is best. The safest position for babies to sleep is always on their backs. Make sure the bassinet or crib is less than a decade old, has not been modified, meets current safety standards, and has a firm mattress.  

    All baby needs is a tight-fitting sheet. As adorable as they are, don’t put stuffed animals, toys, pillows, bumpers or anything else in baby’s bed—not even you. Have the crib or bassinet in your room, near you, but don’t bring baby into bed with you. No sleeping on any soft surface such as a couch, pile of blankets, or water bed. If the item is soft, the item can suffocate. 

    Our caring maternity team will help you learn and practice these great tips so baby can sleep, safe and sound, and parents can worry just a little bit less. Learn more about our maternity services at Saratoga Hospital here