Pre Schooling | Home Schooling

To ensure that your baby has a safe environment in which to sleep there are a number of things which you need to take into consideration. The following are all important factors that you need to keep an eye on – the cot, bedding, positioning and the temperature of the room.

Baby’s Bed
For the 1st 6 months it is important that you can keep a watchful eye on your baby at all times and therefore you should arrange it so that your baby can always be in the same room as you when he is asleep. Whether you choose a cot, basket or cotbed you need to ensure that basic construction safety standards are met, these will include making sure that there are no spaces in which your baby could get stuck, that the cot is sturdy and that no toxic or lead based finishes have been used. The mattress you choose is important and the general recommendation is that you get a new one. It should be firm and fit snugly within the cot.
When you have a safe sleeping environment set up for your baby then this is where he should sleep, avoid letting your baby sleep on a sofa, bean bag, water bed or pillow etc.

Temperature
Babies do not need heat or hot rooms in which to sleep, the ideal temperature is between 16-20 degrees Celsius (61-68 degrees Fahrenheit). Do not put your baby to sleep next to a radiator, heater or fire, under a window or in direct sunlight. You should ensure that the top part of your babys head is not covered up as babies need to lose excess heat from their heads, therefore remove any hoods, hats or additional clothing items.

Position
You should not put your baby down to sleep on his side or tummy – it should always be on his back. At around 5-7 months your baby will naturally start to roll onto their sides, at this stage of development it will not be necessary for you to reposition them. You should always place your baby in the ‘feet to foot’ position. When your baby’s feet are touching the foot of the cot the covers should reach no higher than your baby’s shoulders.

Bedding
With cot bedding for the first 12 months do not use duvets, quilts or pillows and keep the bed free from blankets and stuffed toys. Never use hot water bottles or electric blankets. You should use either a cotton sheet with light layers of cotton blankets or a lightweight cotton baby sleeping bag. To regulate your baby’s temperature you can either add or remove blankets.

Co-Sleeping
The opinions for co-sleeping are varied but many experts believe there are enough risks for it to be considered dangerous. Having your baby in the bed with you for feeding and play is fine but it is best not to sleep with your baby in the bed (or armchair or settee).
You should especially avoid sleeping in the same bed with your baby if: -

• Your baby is under three months old
• You smoke, even if you do not smoke when at home
• You are overly tired
• You have drunk any alcohol or have taken any drugs or medication that is likely to cause drowsiness
• Your baby was born premature (before 37 weeks) or was of low birth weight (less than 2.5 kilograms or 5 ½ pounds).

Additional

• Do not smoke, or have your baby in a room where there is smoke
• If your baby is unwell or if you are worried about him then do not delay in seeking medical advice.