Should My Baby Sleep On Its Back Or Front?
These days it’s considered much safer for your baby to sleep on his back – this differs from what your mom may have been advised to do when you were a baby, but research suggests that placing your baby on his tummy to sleep increases his risk of SIDS (crib death).
The safest sleeping position for your baby is on his back, with his feet near the end of the crib and the blankets tucked under his arms so he can’t wriggle under them (better yet, use a baby sleeping bag). If your baby spends any time being cared for by your mom or grandmother, or any older relative who may be more accustomed to the old way of doing things, be clear that they should lay him on his back to sleep, not his tummy or side.
Your baby does need a few minutes of tummy time a day, as it strengthens his muscles, but supervise him at all times when he’s on his front.
For more advice, read creating a safe sleeping envirnoment.
The information on this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
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