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SAFE SLEEP: All You Need to Know as a Babysitter –

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Image for All you Need to Know as a BabysitterAre you ready to be the best babysitter out there? Well, that means becoming a Safe Sleep champion! Being a babysitter is big responsibility and an even bigger responsibility when taking care of a newborn. It is important to be as informed as possible, so you know exactly what to do in any situation. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind next time you are babysitting.

Know the Four Rules of Safe Sleep.

  1. Babies should always sleep alone in a safe crib.
  2. Babies should always sleep on their back, for every sleep.
  3. Nothing should be in a crib with a baby.
  4. Smoke-free

Use a pacifier if necessary. A pacifier can soothe and help the baby calm down when he or she is crying. It can also help the baby relax and fall asleep. However, always make sure to use a clean pacifier and to never force the baby to suck on the pacifier. Studies have shown that pacifiers can reduce the risk of SIDS.

Tummy time is a fun activity you should start doing as a babysitter, for a short period of about 3 to 5 minutes. The baby may not be the biggest fan of it, so placing either yourself or an object somewhere for him or her to reach will make them eventually enjoy it. As the baby starts to like tummy time more, allow the activity to go on for longer.

For more tips and information about Safe Sleep and Infant Safety, visit www.SafeSleepDE.com, follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook.

Your baby should not take long naps in a car seat. Car seats are safe for traveling with your baby, but they are not safe for long naps or sleep time. Make time to bring your baby home so she can sleep in a crib, or bring a travel bassinet. Your baby should always lie on her back to sleep.

For more tips and information about Safe Sleep, visit www.SafeSleepDE.com, follow us on Twitter @DEThrives or check us out on Facebook www.facebook.com/DEThrives. If you have any other questions about your infant, you can dial 2-1-1 for Help Me Grow.

© 2024. Delaware Division of Public Health.