Parents Warned: Babies' Sleeping in Swings and Seats is Dangerous
Parents are warned against letting their babies sleep in swings, car seats, and other sitting devices due to serious safety risks. The only safe sleeping position for infants is on their back on a firm, flat surface.
A decade-long study revealed that sitting devices contributed to 3% of infant deaths, with car seats accounting for the majority at 62%. Sleeping in a seated position can put pressure on babies' necks and may lead to suffocation.
To prevent this, move babies under 4 months old to a crib or bassinet once they've fallen asleep in the swing. For older babies, sleep training may be necessary. Keep swings as activity devices, placing them in busy, well-lit areas during the day to reframe them as play spaces. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports this approach. Recent recalls of baby swings involved restraint belts and other safety issues.
Parents should prioritize safe sleep practices for their babies. Avoid using swings, car seats, and other sitting devices as sleep alternatives. Always place babies on their backs on a firm, flat surface for naps and nighttime sleep.
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