Missouri

Ensuring safe sleep for infants is crucial to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related incidents. Missouri offers various resources and programs to educate families on safe sleep practices and provide access to safe sleep environments for their babies.

Safe Sleep Guidelines in Missouri
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend the following safe sleep practices:

• Back to Sleep: Always place babies on their backs for every sleep time, including naps and bedtime. This position has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of SIDS.

• Use a Firm Sleep Surface: Place the baby on a firm, flat, and level sleep surface, such as a crib, bassinet, or portable play yard, covered only by a fitted sheet. Ensure the sleep surface meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) safety standards.

• Keep the Sleep Area Bare: Avoid using soft bedding, including crib bumpers, blankets, pillows, and soft toys. The crib should be bare to prevent suffocation hazards.

• Room-Sharing Without Bed-Sharing: It is recommended to have the baby sleep in the same room as the parents but on a separate sleep surface. Bed-sharing increases the risk of sleep-related deaths.

• Avoid Overheating: Keep the baby's room at a comfortable temperature and dress the baby in appropriate clothing to prevent overheating. Learn more

Free or Low-Cost Cribs in Missouri

For families in need of safe sleep spaces, Missouri provides several programs

Safe Cribs for Missouri Program: Missouri residents who are 35 weeks gestation to six months postpartum, eligible for WIC, Medicaid, or have income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level, and have no crib or other resources for obtaining one are eligible for this program. Families must also agree to participate in two individual safe sleep education sessions.
How to Apply: Call 800-TEL-LINK (800-835-5465) to find a provider near you.

First Chance for Children’s Safe C.R.I.B.S. Program: Provides a safe crib and information families need to safely put their child to bed. The crib is delivered to the family home and is followed by five additional home visits focusing on child abuse and neglect prevention and child development information.

Education and Support
Missouri offers various resources to educate and support families on safe sleep practices. Learn more

Safe Sleep Missouri: Provides comprehensive information on safe infant sleep, including recommendations and resources for parents and caregivers. Learn more

Children’s Trust Fund of Missouri: Offers public awareness campaigns and educational materials on safe sleep practices. Learn more

Missouri Baptist Baby: Provides guidance on creating a safe sleep environment for your baby. Learn more

By adhering to these safe sleep guidelines and utilizing available resources, families in Missouri can create a safe sleeping environment for their infants, thereby reducing the risk of sleep-related injuries or deaths.