Transitioning infant to crib
Posted by Kimberly Bepler on Thu, July 30th 2009 in Healthy Sleep
I’m about to transition my 5 month old daughter from sleeping in a co-sleeper to her crib. I had planned on using a mesh/breathable crib bumper for safety reasons but she has developed a preference of sleeping horizontally with her head firmly against the cloth wall of the co sleeper.
Now I’m wondering if I should get something w/ more padding as to not hurt her sweet little head. Any suggestions?
Answer
Dear Mama,
Unfortunately the mesh bumpers are the only ones currently recommended by the SIDS Alliance. So even if she might prefer something softer, I can’t recommend anything else in regard to SIDS prevention.
You are a sweet mama to be concerned about extra padding for her, but my guess is she likes the pressure of something up against her head, and might be served just fine with the mesh. Many babies find some comfort in hanging out near the edge of their beds, especially when there is a rail or other restraint to push against. You can only imagine that nature equipped them with built in safety behaviors that probably reassured them of their parent’s body near their own both for safety and comfort.
Of course I have to make the recommendations that follow the AAP, althought lots of families find a way to integrate a safe solution that doesn’t follow the AAP to the letter. I trust those decisions and understand your need to support her sleep in a way that makes her feel the most comfortable.
My guess is this is just one transition that you will make with your daughter as she grows in her independent sleep. I hope you have a peaceful transition and nice restful nights ahead for you both!
warmly,
Kimberly Bepler
ABC Doula Service
