How to Stop a Baby Sleeping Face Down
Babies often sleep face down, which can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Though the risk is low and you can take steps to protect your baby, it is important to take measures to inhibit this position. Here are some tips to ensure your baby sleeps safely
Monitor your baby’s position
Checking your baby’s sleeping position frequently is essential to make a difference. It provides you with reminders to re-position your baby if they are face down, allowing you to adjust them before they drift off.
Educate yourself
When researching how to stop your baby sleeping face down, educate yourself. It is important to understand the risks associated with this position and how best to mitigate them.
Create a safe sleep environment
Creating a safe sleep environment is key to reducing the risk of your baby sleeping face down. Avoid pillows, quilts, and soft toys which can create an unsafe environment for a baby to sleep in.
Positioning your baby
It is important to put your baby to bed in an approved position, lying on their back. Make sure their head is slightly higher than feet and their face is not pressed against the mattress. It is also important to swaddle your baby tightly to prevent them from rolling over.
Use a crib wedge
Using a crib wedge can help reduce the risk of a baby sleeping face down. This wedge is placed underneath your baby’s head to slightly tilt the mattress and keep the head higher than the feet. However, use of a crib wedge is not recommended on infants aged under 4 months old.
Follow regular sleep routines
Following a regular sleep routine is beneficial not only for helping your baby to sleep, but also for reducing the risk of them sleeping face down. Aim to establish regular bedtime, nap times and wake up times, as well as limiting distractions before they drift off.
Cuddle your baby to sleep
Cuddling your baby to sleep for comfort can be a gentle way to ensure they are secure and safe, knowing that they are not alone. This practice helps to hugely reduce the risk of your baby sleeping face down.
Conclusion
To stop a baby sleeping face down, there are several simple steps you can take. We recommend:
- Monitoring your baby’s position
- Educating yourself on the risks associated with this position
- Creating a safe sleep environment
- Positioning your baby correctly
- Using a crib wedge for older infants
- Establishing a regular sleep routine
- Cuddling your baby to sleep for comfort
By taking these measures, it is possible to reduce the risk of your baby sleeping face down and ensure they sleep safely.