National Baby Safety Month

Whether you’re expecting your first child or your fourth, it’s important to stay current on the most recent baby health and safety information. We’ve put together a list of important safety tips to remember as you prepare for your new arrival.

Sleep Soundly

To make sure your baby gets the best, safest sleep, here are some highlights from the American Academy of Pediatrics most recent guidelines:

  • Babies should sleep on their backs on a flat, non-inclined surface.
  • Parents should sleep in the same room as baby for at least the first 6 months.
  • Do not use weighted products like weighted swaddles or clothes.
  • Keep your baby’s sleep space clear of loose bedding, pillows, toys and blankets.
  • Offer baby a pacifier during naps and bedtime.
  • It’s okay to swaddle babies until they start to roll.

Introducing Food to Babies

Are you ready to introduce solids to your baby? Follow these tips to make feeding time safe and fun!

  • Start solid food (this includes purees) once your baby can sit with minimal assistance.
  • Place your baby in a highchair with a tray that sits between their chest and belly button. Bonus points if it has a footrest. 
  • Start off with one single-ingredient soft food (like avocado, sweet potato or banana) every 3-5 days to make sure your little one doesn’t have an allergy. If not using purees, food should be soft enough to smush between your fingers and easy for your baby to hold.
  • Introduce peanut butter after you’ve safely tried some non-allergenic foods. Mix it into plain yogurt or oatmeal and never offer it straight off a spoon. If your baby had or has moderate-to-severe eczema or an immediate allergic reaction to any food, they are at an increased risk for peanut allergies. Consult your child’s pediatrician before introducing any high-allergen foods.
  • Avoid any foods that have honey in them for your child’s first year.

More Baby Safety Tips

  • Children should be in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the seat’s height and weight limits, which can be up to age 3.
  • The chest clip should be at armpit level and snug. 
  • You should not be able to pinch the straps at your child’s shoulders. If you can, the straps are too loose.
  • Do not dress your child in bulky clothing or coats if they’re going to be in the car seat.
  • A properly installed car seat base will not move more than an inch in any direction.
  • Check the water temperature on your water heater before baby’s first bath — it should be no hotter than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  • Test the water temperature with your wrist or elbow before putting baby in to make sure it’s not too hot.
  • Gather all bath time essentials before starting the bath. Babies should never be left unattended during bath time.
  • Choose baby products that are age and developmentally appropriate. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and register all of your products so that you’ll be notified if there are any recalls.
  • Secure restraining straps when placing your baby in a swing or bouncer.
  • Follow all recommended age, weight and height requirements for infant swings, bouncers and activity centers.
  • If you purchase or receive any second-hand items, check them for an expiration date and possible recalls.

Babyproofing Hacks

You can babyproof some of your home with items you may already have on hand!

Learn How

Make Your Own Yogurt Melts

If your baby goes through bags and bags of tasty little yogurt melts, you can easily make them yourself and never run out again!

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