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Colorado

Pregnancy, birth and the first year in Colorado, in 14 topics: from who runs maternal and child health to what happens at your newborn's screening.

Safe Sleep & Cribs

In Colorado, various resources and programs support safe sleep practices for infants, aiming to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related incidents. These initiatives educate parents and provide access to safe sleep environments.

Safe Sleep Guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Colorado health organizations recommend the following safe sleep practices:

Place babies on their backs for every sleep: This position reduces the risk of SIDS.
Use a firm mattress in a crib, bassinet, or play yard: Ensure the sleep surface is free from soft bedding, pillows, or toys.
Share a room with your baby but avoid bed-sharing: Room-sharing without bed-sharing decreases the risk of sleep-related deaths.
Avoid overheating: Dress the baby in appropriate layers to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Free or Low-Cost Cribs

Families needing cribs or safe sleep spaces can access support through the following programs:

WeeCycle: This Colorado-based organization provides essential baby gear, including cribs, to low-income families through a network of partner organizations.

Cribs for Kids Program: A national initiative that partners with local organizations in Colorado to offer safe sleep education and distribute free cribs to families in need.

Education and Support

Colorado Shines: Offers information on safe sleep practices, emphasizing the importance of placing babies alone, on their backs, and in a crib.

Children's Hospital Colorado: Offers guidance on safe sleep practices and reducing the risk of SIDS.

By following these safe sleep practices and utilizing available resources, Colorado families can create a secure environment for their infants, thereby reducing the risk of sleep-related injuries or deaths.

Recent Developments in Infant Sleep Safety

Can Babies Safely Sleep on Their Sides? Learn more.

US orders recall of Fisher-Price baby swings linked to five infant deaths. Learn More

Looking for an organization near you in Colorado?

Hospitals, birth centers, doulas, WIC clinics, milk banks and more are listed by county. Enter a ZIP code or city to see yours.