In new safe sleep guidelines, the AAP is firmly against co-sleeping, wearable monitors, inclined sleepers and more. Here's what parents need to know:
For the first time since 2016, American parents with babies are getting new safe sleep recommendations for reducing sleep-related infant deaths. In a, the American Academy of Pediatrics says it has revised and expanded many guidelines, including those on co-sleeping, inclined sleepers and“We’ve made great strides in learning what keeps infants safe during sleep but much work still needs to be done,” said Dr.
The AAP recommends that, until they’re six months old, babies should sleep “in the parents’ room, close to the parents’ bed, but on a separate surface designed for infants,” . Evidence shows that following this recommendation reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome by as much as 50 percent., for instance, perhaps to help with breastfeeding or because of a cultural preference or a belief that it is safe,” said Dr. Rebecca Carlin, who co-authored the statement and technical report.
When it comes to your baby’s crib, it should be free of soft blankets, pillows, stuffies and other crib decor. While you may want to create a snugly atmosphere for your baby in their crib—you may have even decided that adding more coziness would help your little one sleep better—bare is actually best. Instead ofthe AAP recommends using a sleep sack or dressing your baby in light layers of clothing to keep them warm.