One of our most important initiatives at Hamilton County Job and Family Services is promoting safe sleep for babies. It’s so important – 21 babies died in Hamilton County in 2020 because of unsafe sleep situations. We want that number to be zero.

Do you know what Safe Sleep is? It means that during every nighttime sleep and every nap, parents need to follow these ABCs:

 

A – Baby sleeps Alone

B – Baby sleeps on its Back

C – Baby sleeps in a Crib

 

Families should use a crib, bassinet or a Pack ‘N Play with a firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet. And always without any blankets, toys or stuffed animals. If you are worried that your baby is too cold, use a wearable blanket such as a sleep sack. These are made to cover the body but not the head. Infants should be placed on their backs for sleep alone with no other people. It is recommended that infants sleep in the same room as their caregivers, but not in the same bed. 

We know that Safe Sleep can be difficult, but we also know:

Your Baby is Worth It!

 

Additional Resources – 

Cradle Cincinnati

Sweet Cheeks diaper bank

WIC (Women, Infants and Children) supplemental nutrition program for pregnant women and children up to 5.

Healthy Moms and Babes