Consider feeding your baby breast milk, exclusively, for at least the first six months! Breastfeeding is best for your baby’s overall health and well-being, and there are less SIDS deaths among breastfed babies than bottle-fed babies. Please pay close attention to safe feeding/safe sleeping practices and the hidden dangers of falling asleep with your baby in an adult bed, sofa, chair or other unsafe sleep area.

Every parent dreams about their baby’s nursery! But when it comes to safe sleep to reduce the risk of SIDS, suffocation and accidental infant deaths, less is best. All you really need is a safety-approved crib with a firm, tight fitting mattress covered by only a sheet. Cute quilts and comforters can be used as wall-hangings or tummy-time mats, soft or pillow-like bumpers should be avoided and stuffed toys and animals should be displayed in baskets or on shelves. You should also steer clear of positioners and other products that claim to reduce the risk of SIDS. When considering a home nursery monitor, remember that while they may be a great way to monitor noise, activity and temperature in your baby’s room, they are not effective at preventing a SIDS death. (For questions or guidance on specific products, please contact First Candle at 800-221-7437 or the Consumer Product Safety Commission at 800-638-2772.)