By Steven Jensen, M.D., medical director, general pediatrics, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach | As you take in the joys of having your newborn, your day is filled with many new and exciting experiences. On any given day, your child bonds with you over personal touches, feeding and play times. In between these times, a baby’s sleep weaves in and out of these activities and this time can be just as significant as any other. A newborn or infant can sleep up to 16 hours a day on average, so it is necessary that babies sleep in a comfortable and safe environment.

Healthy sleeping habits for a baby have changed greatly in the past few years. Implementing the following sleeping tips for your newborn will ensure that your child receives the safest sleep possible:

Practice Safe Sleeping Methods

Ensure that your baby is protected from SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)

  • SIDS, also known as crib or cot death, can be prevented by putting your child to sleep on his/her back. Relatives and all caregivers also should be aware that the risk of SIDS can be lowered by putting babies to sleep on their backs and not their tummy or side.
  • Allowing your baby to have “tummy time” while awake is beneficial for muscle development
  • Do not smoke or drink during times of pregnancy or childrearing, this increases the risk of SIDS

Do not allow your child to get too hot during resting periods

  • Your baby should be dressed lightly while he/she sleeps
  • Keep your baby cool: A baby may be too hot if a parent notices signs of sweating, heat rash, damp hair or flushed cheeks
  • Remember to set the room temperature to one that is comfortable to an adult during sleep times

Create a Safe Sleeping Environment

  • Ensure that your baby sleeps on a firm mattress with tightly fitted sheets
  • Ideally, your baby should sleep in the room of his/her parents and/or caregivers during the night for the first six months
  • If possible, lay your baby to sleep in your room but within his/her own crib
  • Make sure to put your baby to sleep in his/her crib
  • Check that your baby’s crib follows a strict safety standard with clear labeling
  • Do not put your baby to sleep on pillows, rocking chairs, an adult mattress, cushions, waterbeds, etc.
  • Keep pillows, blankets, toys, stuffed animals, comforters, wedges and other materials out of the crib

Your newborn is prepared to sleep soundly for rest and growth when he/she practices healthy sleeping behaviors implemented by you. With time, you will see that your child thrives with a good and safe night’s rest.