Safe Sleep Isn’t Just for Newborns
By the time your baby hits 2 months, many parents start thinking, “We’re past the fragile newborn stage—do the sleep safety rules still apply?”
The answer is a resounding yes.
According to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, the ABC’s of safe sleep—Alone, on their Back, in a Crib—are just as essential for babies up to 12 months old.
Let’s explore what those ABCs really mean in day-to-day life, and how they work alongside the sleep habits we teach in Sleepy Little One.
A is for Alone
Not sure where to start? Discover your baby’s personalized plan.
Plan My Baby's Sleep (Free)Babies should sleep in their own sleep space, even if they’re in the same room with you. Room-sharing is great for reducing SIDS risk, but bed-sharing is not recommended.
This means:
- Baby sleeps in a bassinet, crib, or portable crib
- No siblings, no stuffed animals, no pillows
- Just your baby, on a firm mattress with a fitted sheet
B is for Back
Always place your baby on their back to sleep—for naps and nighttime.
Why?
- It’s the safest position for reducing the risk of SIDS
- Even if your baby can roll both ways, always start them on their back
- No propping or side-sleeping
This also reinforces the “independent sleep” pattern we want to build, where baby learns to settle in a consistent position.
C is for Crib
Use a crib or crib-equivalent that meets current safety standards. Avoid:
- Sofas
- Armchairs
- Adult beds
Other safe sleep tips include:
- No loose blankets—use a sleep sack instead
- Keep room smoke-free
- Keep temperature comfortable (think: what feels good for a lightly dressed adult)
Age-Specific Add-Ons
Nationwide Children’s gives age-related safety tips that are often overlooked:
- By 3 months: Decide where your baby will sleep long-term
- By 5 months: Remove mobiles and hanging toys once baby begins pulling up
These simple shifts reduce risk and help babies explore safely as their mobility grows.
Final Thought
Safe sleep isn’t a phase—it’s a practice.
And when you combine safety with nurturing sleep habits (like those in Sleepy Little One), you’re setting up your baby for both better nights and greater peace of mind.
The ABCs are simple. But they’re powerful.
