What does this statistic mean for parents? Simply put, be sure that any caregiver watching your child (this includes grandparents, babysitters, daycare workers, friends and in-home providers) are familiar with SIDS safety. It's particularly important to have a direct conversation with the caregiver about do's and don't's, especially since recommendations of how an infant should be put to sleep has changed over the years due to SIDS.
Things to tell a caregiver about SIDS safety:
- Always place a baby to sleep on his back...no exceptions. This means to never place a child to sleep on her side either.
- Don't place toys, blankets or covers in the crib. Dress a child for appropriate warmth (and not too hot) and covers are not needed for the first year.
- It's now actually recommended to give your child a pacifier at night and naps during her first year.
- Make sure the crib mattress is firm and tight-fitting.
