Safe Sleep Checklist
Safe Sleep Checklist 0-12m
I was talking with a group of mom’s the other day about how there are The Big Three for sleep hygiene (temperature, light and sound) However I realized I sort of brushed over safe sleeping practices and that’s just not O-K!
Having a great sleeper is what we are striving for here, however the main thing you worry about as a parent is the safety and wellbeing of your child.
SO - I wanted to outline here a safe sleep checklist for you, so that if you need a refresher or you’re a first time parent and want to make sure you’ve got it down, it’s all laid out here nice and simple! ** You can download a copy of this checklist HERE **
The Crib:
Has no gaps around the edges of the mattress
No large gaps in the slats (no more than 2 ⅜ inch)
No bumpers
No loose sheets, blankets, toys etc.
Mattress is the right height (with babe standing the rail should hit their mid chest)
Swaddling:
Tight around the child’s upper body but you could still slip your hand under it
More loose around their hips
Secure with a zipper, snaps or velcro
No weighted sleep sacks (they aren’t safe for sleeping in)
Discontinue swaddling when the child can roll to their belly
The Sleep Area:
A firm surface
Nothing around or under the child (pillows, blankets, padding etc)
No loungers/ sleepers, pillow type things (they aren’t safe for sleeping only relaxing)
At least an arms length away from cords, windows, furniture etc
A Note on Co-Sleeping/Bed Sharing:
I understand co-sleeping is not deemed safe sleep practices, and there are a lot of risks associated HOWEVER many parents co-sleep safely. You should not feel judged or less loved as a parent because you co-sleep to some degree (or visa versa!) I only ask that you understand the risks. I do not condemn parents who co-sleep/bedshare, I do not try and change parents who do either. You do what you feel is best for your child and for your family. I only ask that you do your research and make sure the way you co-sleep is as safe as you can make it and if you aren’t 100% comfortable with having them in the bed with you, you can have them in a bassinet beside you. There are many ways to have that attachment and connection with your child.
Other Aspects to Consider:
Baby is placed on their back to sleep- put down feet/bum first
No bows, clips, ties, etc on baby for sleep
Dressed appropriately for the room’s temperature
Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean your baby needs a 3.5 TOG sleep sack. If your furnace keeps their room at a good 20C/69F they probably don’t need a change in their sleep attire.
If they’re sweating, flushed, or back/chest is warm remove a layer
Add PJs, swaddle, sleep sack if their back/chest feels cold
** You can download a copy of the checklist HERE **
Disclaimer- Always follow the advice of your paediatrician and stay up to date on the recommendations of the AAP (American Academy of Paediatrics) and CCPSA (Canadian Consumer Product Safety Act).
