The American Academy of Pediatrics considers it unsafe. Babies should sleep on their backs, on a firm, completely flat surface. That is, in a crib, stroller, or carrier with a firm bottom [1].
But what if the child constantly wakes up when you put them on their back?
Researchers who have specifically studied this question believe that frequent awakenings are a normal protective reaction. A sleeping child on their back wakes up at the moment when in another position (on their stomach or sitting) they would simply suffocate. Statistics show that sleeping on a soft surface, falling asleep in a vertical or even inclined position increases the likelihood of death during sleep [2].
Can I put my baby in a sling while they are awake?
You can. But make sure that the edge of the sling does not cover the child's head, nose, and mouth, and that you can constantly see their face [1]. Not the top of their head, but their face!
In addition, it is important to control the following factors:
- Overheating. A baby should wear one more layer of clothing than an adult [3]. The sling is already an additional layer.
- Suffocation. When a baby is in a vertical position for a long time, they get tired of holding their head and press their chin to their chest. This makes breathing difficult and can lead to tragic consequences. That's why it's so important that you see their face.
- Falling asleep. As soon as the baby falls asleep, remember the rules of safe sleep for children and transfer them to a crib.
