North Dakota

In North Dakota, several resources and programs are dedicated to promoting safe sleep practices for infants and providing families with access to safe sleep spaces, such as cribs, to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related deaths.

Safe Sleep Guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 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.

Learn more about safe sleep practices through the Safe to Sleep® campaign.

More so, the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) emphasizes the ABCs of safe sleep, i.e., Alone: Place babies in their own sleep space, such as a crib or bassinet, to prevent suffocation risks associated with bed-sharing; Back: Always lay babies down on their backs for every sleep, including naps and nighttime, to reduce the risk of SIDS; and Crib: Use a firm mattress in a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or portable crib with no soft bedding, pillows, or toys.

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

Cribs for Kids Program
The Cribs for Kids® program in North Dakota offers safe sleep education and distributes free or low-cost portable cribs, such as Pack 'n Plays, to eligible families. Each crib kit includes a portable crib, crib sheet, pacifier, and a swaddle sack. Eligibility varies by location and is based on availability. Local partners screen applicants to determine eligibility.

WIC Program
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program may also offer safe sleep education and referrals for cribs to low-income families.

Safe Sleep Education and Training

North Dakota provides various educational resources to promote safe sleep practices

North Dakota Safe Sleep Training: The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) requires that everyone who cares for infants in a licensed child care setting must complete an annual training for safe sleep. Not all safe sleep trainings meet the HHS requirements. The HHS Early Childhood Division course, North Dakota Safe Sleep, is Registry-approved and meets licensing requirements.

Safe Sleep Ambassador Training: A 20-minute online training course that educates individuals on safe sleep practices. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate. This training is available through the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services.

Local Public Health Centers

North Dakota’s public health centers often offer safe sleep classes or consultations for new parents.

By following safe sleep practices and utilizing these resources, families can create a safe environment for their babies and reduce the risk of sleep-related injuries or deaths.