Sleep guidelines for infants updated

The American Academy of Pediatrics has updated its sleep guidelines for infants.

According to the academy, approximately 3,500 infants die from sleep-related deaths in the United States every year.

They are now emphasizing the need for babies to sleep on their backs, specifically on a flat, non-inclined surface without any kind of soft bedding.

“It’s really important because a lot of incidences of SIDS, or sudden infant death syndrome, are related to overheating, suffocation, getting wrapped up in bedding,” said Dr. Gina Robinson, a pediatrician.

The new guidelines include not using car seats, strollers, swings and infant carriers for routine sleep.

Parents are also encouraged to sleep in the same room, but not in the same bed as their baby, for six months.

Parents should avoid using devices claiming to increase sleep safety, because they may provide a false sense of security.