Skip to content

Idaho

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

Safe Sleep & Cribs

Ensuring safe sleep practices for infants is crucial in reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related incidents. In Idaho, several resources and programs are available to support families in creating safe sleep environments and accessing necessary equipment:

Safe Sleep Guidelines
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Idaho health organizations recommend the following safe sleep practices:

  • Place babies on their backs for every sleep.
  • Use a firm mattress in a crib, bassinet, or play yard with no soft bedding, pillows, or toys.
  • Share a room with your baby but avoid bed-sharing.
  • Avoid overheating by dressing the baby in appropriate layers.

Free or Low-Cost Cribs
Families in need of cribs or safe sleep spaces can access assistance through the following programs:

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare – Safe Sleep Resources
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare provides comprehensive information on safe sleep practices for infants. Their resources include guidelines and educational materials to help parents and caregivers create a safe sleeping environment for babies.
cribsforkids.org

Cribs for Kids – Find a Crib Program
Cribs for Kids is a national organization dedicated to preventing infant sleep-related deaths by providing safe sleep education and portable cribs to families in need. Through their "Find a Crib" program, families can locate local partners in Idaho who distribute Cribette portable cribs. To find assistance in your area: cribsforkids.org

Idaho Child Care Program – Safe Sleep Practices
The Idaho Child Care Program emphasizes safe sleep practices to reduce the risk of SIDS. They provide guidelines and tip sheets for child care providers and families, outlining safe sleep environments and practices.

Education and Support in Idaho
Idaho Safe Sleep Initiative
The Idaho Safe Sleep Initiative offers education, resources, and outreach to parents and caregivers across the state to promote safe sleep practices and reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths. This program emphasizes the importance of placing babies on their backs to sleep, using a firm mattress, and avoiding soft bedding.
Learn more via the Idaho Safe Sleep Initiative.

Local Health Departments
Idaho’s local health departments provide safe sleep classes, consultations, and support for new parents to ensure that infants sleep in a safe environment. These services help educate parents about proper sleeping practices and how to reduce the risk of sleep-related injuries or deaths. Find a local health department near you by visiting the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare's Local Public Health Districts.

By following safe sleep practices and utilizing the available resources, families in Idaho can create a secure sleeping environment for their babies, helping reduce the risks of sleep-related injuries or deaths.

Looking for an organization near you in Idaho?

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