What is a recommended safe sleep practice for infants in child care settings?

Placing infants on their backs to sleep is recognized as a best practice for promoting safe sleep in child care settings. This position significantly reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Back sleeping has been endorsed by organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) because it helps keep the airway open and minimizes the chances of the infant re-breathing carbon dioxide, which can occur when they sleep on their stomachs.

Implementing back sleeping routines in child care is crucial for compliance with health and safety regulations and for fostering a safe sleeping environment for infants. Consistency in practice across caretakers and settings ensures that all caregivers maintain this standard, contributing to the overall well-being and safety of the infants in their care.

While other options may seem appealing or conventional, they do not align with the established guidelines for safe infant sleep. For instance, placing an infant on their stomach increases the risk of SIDS, using soft bedding can lead to suffocation, and keeping infants awake during naps can interfere with their natural sleep patterns, which are essential for development.