B.I.B.S.

Safe sleeping practices are a vital skill for all caregivers to learn and practice. Exercising safe sleep positions and routines can save a child’s life. Fortunately, these practices are simple. You can remember them by just thinking “B.I.B.S.”:

Baby alone (with nothing else)
In a crib (no co-sleeping with the baby in your care)
Back to sleep (lay your baby on his or her back to sleep)
Safe sleep (these steps keep your baby safe)

PCASJC Partners with local hospitals to promote Safe Sleep & Preventing Abuse

PCASJC is taking steps with Beacon and St. Joseph Health Systems to prevent child abuse and promote safe sleep. PCASJC is providing the prenatal departments at Memorial and St. Joseph hospitals with onesies and informational cards for new parents. As parents complete prenatal education classes at each health system, they will receive the baby onesie with reminders printed right on them about Safe Sleep, and the fragility of an infant.

According to the Mayo Clinic, Shaken Baby Syndrome is a leading cause of child abuse-related deaths in the United States. Shaken baby syndrome usually occurs when a parent or caregiver severely shakes a child in frustration or anger, often because the child won't stop crying. Permanent brain damage or death may result. Giving new parents tips on how to remain calm during times of stress is a key to prevent abuse.

Creating a Safe Sleep Environment

Place the baby on his or her back on a firm sleep surface such as a crib or bassinet with a tight-fitting sheet.

Avoid use of soft bedding, including crib bumpers, blankets, pillows and soft toys. The crib should be bare.

Share a bedroom with parents, but not the same sleeping surface, preferably until the baby turns 1 but at least for the first six months. Room-sharing decreases the risk of SIDS by as much as 50 percent.

Avoid baby's exposure to smoke, alcohol, and illicit drugs.