Sleep
Safe Sleep |
When you create a safe sleep environment for your baby, you are lowering the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is one of the main causes of death in healthy infants. The cause of SIDS is unknown but the following are ways to lower the risk:
Visit Public Health Agency of Canada and Health Canada to know more about safe sleep for your child. Baby boxesThe following is provided for information only and is not an endorsement by Ottawa Public Health of any particular product or service. Baby boxes originated in Finland in 1938 and were distributed by the Finnish government to expectant parents. The box is filled with clothes and baby items and the box itself is used as a sleep space for the baby's first months. Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) advises that baby boxes intended for sleep are not approved by Health Canada and are not subject to pre-market approval, and must meet federal regulatory requirements. Please refer to the above-noted link for additional information on baby boxes and on applicable regulations and laws. Ottawa Public Health reminds you that the safest place for your baby to sleep is on his or her back, in a crib, cradle or bassinet that meets all applicable laws and regulation. However, when used carefully baby boxes can provide a safer alternative to placing a baby on an unsafe sleep surface, such as a couch, adult bed with loose bedding. The PHAC also reminds you to keep the following in mind:
Information adapted from: Public Health Agency of Canada. Information Note to Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (CPNP) and Community Action Program for Children (CAPC) Sites, Subject: Baby Boxes. Ottawa, January 2017. |
Sleep Behaviour |
You may ask yourself, "Why isn't my child sleeping through the night?" This may be a worry for you and unfortunately, there is no simple answer. Try not to get down on yourself. As your child changes and grows so does their sleep behaviour. Here are a few things to consider: Sleep pattern Your newborn's sleep pattern may not be regular because their brain is not yet mature. They have different sleep patterns than adults. It is usually not until 6 months of age that they are able to sleep 6 hours straight. Every child is different. Bedtime routine It is important for you to have the same routine with your baby or toddler before bed. This routine may be hard to establish at first but will get easier as your child grows. For more information on sleep, visit the Canadian Paediatric Society and the Centre of Excellence. Dealing with your child's lack of sleep can affect your own sleep. It can be physically and emotionally hard on you. During these hard times it is important to stay calm and remember to never shake a baby or toddler. Also, if you are not feeling like yourself or you are worrying your partner, it is important to get help. Some women experience postpartum blues or postpartum depression. |
How much sleep does my baby or toddler need? |
According to the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years (0-4 years):
For more information on infant sleep needs, visit the Canadian Pediatric Society website at: ttps://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/healthy_sleep_for_your_baby_and_child |
Do you have more questions about parenting?
- Speak with a Public Health Nurse. Call the Ottawa Public Health Info Centre at 613-PARENTS [613-727-3687] (TTY: 613-580-9656) or email Ottawa Public Health at ParentinginOttawa@ottawa.ca
- Connect with a Public Health Nurse and other parents on the Parenting in Ottawa Facebook page
- There are a variety of services to make it easier for your child to grow up healthy in Ottawa
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