How Soon Can Babies Sleep with a Stuffed Animal?
It can be tempting to give your baby a stuffed animal to sleep with, but it’s important to know when it’s safe to do so. Here’s what you need to know about when your baby can safely sleep with a stuffed animal.
When Can Babies Start Sleeping with a Stuffed Animal?
Most experts recommend waiting until your baby is at least 12 months old before introducing a stuffed animal into their sleep space. This is because stuffed animals can be a potential choking hazard, and babies under 12 months may not have the coordination to maneuver around the stuffed animal while they sleep.
What Are Some Safety Tips?
When you do introduce a stuffed animal into your baby’s sleep space, make sure to follow these safety tips:
- Choose a stuffed animal that is made with washable materials.
- Make sure the stuffed animal is small enough that it won’t take up too much space in the crib.
- Avoid stuffed animals with small parts, such as buttons, eyes, or ribbons.
- Wash the stuffed animal regularly to keep it clean.
- Check the stuffed animal for any signs of wear and tear.
What Are Some Alternatives to Stuffed Animals?
If you’re not comfortable introducing a stuffed animal into your baby’s sleep space, there are some other options you can choose from. Consider introducing a soft blanket or pillow instead. You can also use a stuffed animal as a decoration in the nursery, rather than in the crib.
Conclusion
It’s important to know when it’s safe to introduce a stuffed animal into your baby’s sleep space. Most experts recommend waiting until your baby is at least 12 months old before introducing a stuffed animal into their sleep space. When you do introduce a stuffed animal, make sure to follow safety tips such as choosing washable materials and avoiding stuffed animals with small parts. If you’re not comfortable introducing a stuffed animal, there are some other options you can choose from, such as a soft blanket or pillow.