Peoria County New Parent Support 2025

Sleeping with Your Baby Understanding the Risks

Some parents sleep with their babies purposely, and some may fall asleep with their babies accidentally. There are a number of reasons why parents might do this. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that sleeping with your baby is not recommended. However, certain situations make sleeping with your baby even more dangerous and could lead to death. You should not sleep with your baby if...

Was born more than 3 weeks early, or weighed less than 5lbs 8oz at birth

Was around tobacco smoke or vape during pregnancy

Is less than 4 months old

<4 MONTHS

Your Baby...

Consumed alcohol, medicines, or drugs that make it harder to wake up, or is overly tired.

Uses tobacco (smoke or vape)

Is not the baby’s parent

The Person Sleeping with Baby...

Has pillows, blankets, a pillow to prop up a baby, nursing pillow, or a very soft mattress

Includes other adults, children, and/or pets in the bed

Is a couch, recliner, or chair

The Sleep Space...

If you said yes to any of these, it is strongly recommended that you stop sleeping with your baby.

Turn over for ideas about how to sleep safer.

Talk to your healthcare provider for more information and visit SafeSleepNC.org

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