Sleep-Deprived Parents: How to Keep Your Baby Safe at Night

Lack of sleep is one of the most difficult aspects of parenting a new baby. Many parents struggle with significant sleep deprivation. It can cloud judgment, sap energy, and make even simple tasks feel like monumental hurdles. In these moments of extreme fatigue, safe sleep practices can sometimes feel like an extra burden. This can lead to desperate decisions or accidental unsafe sleep scenarios, like dozing off while feeding in an armchair or unintentionally bed-sharing. 

This article will arm you with practical strategies to make safe sleep easier and more convenient, even when you're running on fumes. Your baby's safety—and your sleep—are both incredibly important. 

How exhaustion can lead to unsafe sleep 

Many sleep-deprived parents have accidentally fallen asleep with their baby in an unsafe place. Whether it's dozing off on the sofa, a recliner, or an adult bed, these situations can have deadly results.  

Unsafe environments can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), suffocation, accidental rolling onto the baby, entrapment in cushions or against headboards, or rebreathing of carbon dioxide by the baby.  

To ensure your baby's safety, let's quickly review the ABCS of safe sleep

Making safe sleep the easiest choice: strategies for exhausted parents 

Here’s how to navigate those bleary-eyed nights by making safe sleep choices simpler and more convenient: 

Choose room-sharing (not bed-sharing) 

Having your baby in your room, but in their own safe sleep space, is convenient for night feeds and check-ins. You get all the benefits of closeness without the risks of sharing an adult bed. Some benefits of room-sharing:

Plan ahead for night feedings 

We know that drowsy feedings are inevitable, especially in the middle of the night. Set yourself up for success to reduce the risk of falling asleep while feeding. To combat drowsiness at night waking:

Tag-team parenting and asking for help 

You don't have to carry the burden of night duty alone. To get more sleep:

The challenge of sleep is real 

We understand the profound challenges of new parenthood and the relentless demands of a baby. It's a period of immense love intertwined with intense fatigue. But with a few simple choices and the right support, you can make safe sleep the easiest and most convenient option, every single night. Prioritizing safe sleep can feel inconvenient, but we want to make it simple to choose to follow safe sleep guidelines.

About SIDS of Illinois 

Sudden Infant Death Services of Illinois, Inc., is a not for profit, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the prevention of sudden, unexpected infant death by providing educational programs to families, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, childcare providers, and the general public as well as bereavement services to families and any others who have experienced the tragedy of sudden, unexpected infant death. Donate here to become a Safe Sleep Supporter!

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