Stomach to Play, Back to Sleep

Help Reduce Your Baby's Risk of Crib Death or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Before the Baby is Born

• Quit smoking
• Don’t breathe secondhand smoke
• Avoid alcohol and drugs
• Get medical care during your pregnancy
• Prepare a safe sleeping place for your baby
• Create a smoke-free home
• Let family members know how they can help keep baby safe

When Baby is Awake

• Put baby on the stomach to play and for exercise - to help the neck, arm, and shoulder muscles grow strong for baby’s healthy development

After the Baby is Born

Safe Sleep Tips:

• Put your baby on the back to sleep for naps and at night – it’s safe, does not cause choking, and is comfortable
• Use a firm mattress for baby’s crib – avoid waterbeds, beanbag chairs, and sofas
• Baby should sleep in his or her own crib
• Keep pillows, comforters, soft blankets, stuffed animals and toys out of the crib

Other Tips:

• Do not let anyone smoke near your baby
• Keep baby and the room temperature comfortable (68°-75°F) - not too hot
• Breastfeed your baby

Prepare For Child Care

• Make it easier for your baby to sleep on his back
• Know the Safe Sleep Policy

Share these tips with others who care for your baby

The advice about sleep position is for healthy babies. Talk to your doctor or nurse if you have questions.

For More Information
about SIDS or for help with the baby in
your family call: 1-800-FOR-BABY or 1-800-367-2229 (TTY for the hearing impaired 1-800-976-1922)

N.C. Healthy Start Foundation
www.NCHealthyStart.org

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