No Snoozing on Safety: The Real Talk on SIDS

When you’re running on empty, trying to juggle a newborn’s needs with your own exhaustion, the safe sleep guidelines can feel like just one more thing on your never-ending list. But here’s the truth: following safe sleep practices really can save your baby’s life.

Every year in the U.S., approximately 3,600 infants die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) or other sleep-related causes. And while we don’t have all the answers, decades of research point to a few key steps that drastically reduce the risk.

5 Sleep Rules Every Parent Should Know

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, here are five rules to remember when putting your baby down for sleep:

1. Always place your baby on their back for every nap and nighttime sleep.

2. Use a separate sleep space designed for infants—never let your baby sleep in bed with you.

3. Stick with a crib, bassinet, portable crib, or play yard with a firm, flat, non-inclined mattress.

4. Avoid using car seats, swings, strollers, or infant carriers for routine sleep.

5. Breastfeed exclusively for about 6 months if possible—it’s been shown to lower the risk of SIDS.

Yes, it can be hard. A fussy baby, a sleep-deprived parent, and the convenience of co-sleeping are real struggles. But understanding the risks—and having a plan—can help.

Watch & Learn

We've pulled together some valuable videos you can watch at your own pace:

• What is SIDS and how do we prevent it? (VIDEO 1)

• Sleep-related Infant Death Explained (VIDEO 2)

• Practical Baby Sleep Strategies (VIDEO 3)

• The Ongoing Debate: Are Baby Monitors Enough? (VIDEO 4)

• Too Much Info? Here’s Where to Start (VIDEO 5)

Still Overwhelmed? You’re Not Alone.

This stuff is a lot—especially when you’re tired, stressed, and just trying to make it through the day. That’s why we always recommend visiting First Candle. They’ve got trustworthy, evidence-based info to help you reduce the risk of SIDS and create safer sleep environments.

On their site, you’ll find:

• Tips on sleep safety

• Ways to reduce SIDS risk

• Grief support if you've lost a baby

• Printable resources for caregivers and family

Let’s Talk About It

Parenting isn’t meant to be done alone—and you don’t have to figure this all out by yourself. Join us for a free, live parenting class and get the support, encouragement, and tools you need.

Classes are held online every week:

• Monday evenings at 6:30PM (Central)

• Tuesday mornings at 10:30AM (Central)

• Tuesday evenings at 6:30PM (Central)

We cover everything from infant care and emotional wellness to discipline and digital safety. Check out the full schedule at www.lubbockfamily.org/parentingclasses.

For more help with navigating parenting, please reach out to Family Guidance and Outreach. FGO is a nonprofit agency in Lubbock that provides free parenting classes and school-based programs to help families build stronger, safer homes. Learn more at www.lubbockfamily.org.