Texas

Ensuring safe sleep for infants is crucial to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related incidents. Texas 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

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) recommend the following safe sleep practices:

Back to Sleep: Always place babies on their backs for every sleep time, 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

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

Cribs for Kids Program: This national initiative partners with local organizations in Texas to provide safe sleep education and distribute free cribs to families in need. Eligibility typically includes financial need, infant age of 12 months or younger, and participation in safe sleep education. To find a crib around you, click here

Texas Children's Health Plan: Members who notify the health plan of their pregnancy during the third trimester can receive a portable crib that doubles as a playpen at no cost. Learn More

Local Health Departments and Hospitals: Some local health departments and hospitals participate in safe sleep programs, offering free or low-cost cribs and safe sleep education. For example, Texas County Memorial Hospital provides free cribs and educational materials to families without a safe place for their infant to sleep. Learn More

Education and Support

Texas offers various resources to educate and support families on safe sleep practices

Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS): Provides comprehensive information on safe infant sleep, including recommendations and resources for parents and caregivers.

Let's Talk — Safe Infant Sleep Toolkit: Developed by DSHS, this toolkit offers guidance for community training on safe infant sleep practices, aiming to create awareness and prevent sleep-related infant deaths.

Local Public Health Centers: Many public health centers in Texas offer safe sleep classes or consultations for new parents, providing personalized education and support.

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