Safe Sleep

DCS Safe Sleep Campaign

The Safe Sleep campaign involves educating families about safe sleep practices and providing them with resources for cribs if needed. DCS offers free baby essentials to families involved with the department.

safe sleep infographic 2

Safe Sleep Training

DCS and ADHS have put together a Safe Sleep training
that can be used as your own education materials.
Please download the PDF link below to share.

Download Training

Tips for Caregivers

  • The safest sleep environment for the baby is ALONE on their BACK in an empty CRIB, bassinette or pack-n-play.
    • Babies should be laid down in a safe sleep environment every time the baby is napping or sleeping.
    • The sleep area should be free of any items including blankets, pillows and stuffed animals/toys.
  • Do not sleep with the baby, this includes falling asleep on beds, couches and chairs.
  • Baby should sleep in a smoke free environment. No smoking in the home or around the baby.
  • Be mindful of your own tiredness before sitting with the infant in your arms.
  • Consider providing baby with a pacifier as this reduces the risk of SIDS.
  • Enjoy tummy time when you and the baby are awake and you are able to watch.

red x across a photo of a mother co-sleeping with her baby

red x across photo of a crowded crib

Advocate safe sleep to other parents and caregivers

  • Anyone can be a safe sleep advocate!
  • Start with a simple question: where does your baby sleep?
  • Acknowledge and respect the family's culture.
  • Let them share their ideas/opinions.
  • Praise the good parenting choices they have made.
  • Physically demonstrate the ABCs of safe sleep.
  • Suggest other ways to bond with the baby - feeding, rocking, or singing.
  • Praise and encourage breastfeeding, it benefits both mom and baby. If mom is breastfeeding in bed, encourage her to have a plan to move the baby once they’re asleep.
  • Share the facts about safe sleep: baby sleeps safest alone, on their back, and in a crib.
  • Lastly, keep the conversation going. It may take several conversations to affect behavior, so don't give up!

Request a Safe Sleep poster!

Need a Safe Sleep poster for the office?
Contact the Office of Prevention.

Contact Us

Want to learn more? Check out these other resources.

 

 

‹ Back to the Office of Prevention page

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