Sweet Dreams, Sleep Safe

One of the scariest times for a new parent is when your baby is sleeping.  That's because that's when your baby is most at risk from SIDS, or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.  SIDS is the unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby.

Experts tell us SIDS usually happens during sleep, there's no warning and no definitive cause.  But, there are preventative measures you can take as a parent.

Veronica Hudson is a Nurse Manager at USA Children's and Women's Hospital.  She says it's very important that we put our babies to sleep on their backs.  And, focus on their environment. 

"Make sure the baby is safely sleeping and can breathe.  Not too hot, not too cluttered.  Not on their tummies, but on their backs.  And, definitely not sleeping with a parent or a sibling.  Sleeping alone," explains Hudson.

A crib is vitally important for the safety of your baby.  But, as you probably know, cribs can be expensive.  So, USA Children's and Women's Hospital is stepping in.  Through Alabama Medicaid and the MOMCare program, they've teamed up with Kohl's department stores to educate and get cribs to families who need them. 

"We will put them into a class, where they can come and learn about safe sleep environment, learn how to do it for their baby.  And, then upon completion of the class, that is when they get a portable crib," explains Nicole Smith of MOMCare. 

Cribs for Kids gives away pac 'n play cribs to families who qualify.  Since the program started, they've given away about 500 cribs.

So, again experts say placing babies in cribs is very important.  And,

• Place your baby on his or her back to sleep.
• Remove all soft, fluffy bedding and stuffed toys from the crib.
• Don't let your baby share a bed.
• And, make sure your baby's head and face are not covered during sleep.   

The program actually stems from Kohl's Infant Safe Sleep program, which educates new parents about how to help babies sleep safely.  They provide safe sleep education and support to parents.  For more information on the program, you can call 415-1000 or click here .