Back to Sleep: Safe Sleep Guidelines for Your Baby

Helping your baby sleep safely, comfortably, and confidently from day one.

What Is the Back to Sleep Program?

The Back to Sleep program (also known as Safe to Sleep) is a national initiative that teaches families how to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promote safe sleep habits. The core message is simple:

Always place your baby on their back to sleep—for naps and nighttime.

This position keeps your baby’s airway clear and reduces risks associated with stomach or side sleeping.

Why Back Sleeping Matters

Back sleeping is the safest sleep position for infants because it:

• Keeps the airway open

• Reduces the risk of SIDS

• Supports healthy breathing patterns

• Helps prevent overheating

• Encourages symmetrical head and neck positioning

Babies naturally develop stronger, more balanced motor skills when they sleep safely and spend awake time in varied positions.

Safe Sleep Checklist for Parents

Use this quick guide every time your baby sleeps:

• Back to sleep for every nap and nighttime

• Firm, flat sleep surface (crib, bassinet, or play yard)

• No pillows, blankets, bumpers, or stuffed animals

• Fitted sheet only

• Room-sharing without bed-sharing

• Baby’s sleep space free of cords, loose fabric, or hazards

• Dress baby lightly to avoid overheating

• Pacifier use is okay once breastfeeding is established

What About Flat Spots on the Head?

Some babies develop positional plagiocephaly (flat spots) from spending long periods on their backs. This is common—and preventable.

Balanced awake positioning helps:

• Tummy time

• Side‑lying play

• Holding baby upright

• Alternating head position during sleep (while still on the back)

If you notice persistent flattening or asymmetry, a pediatric PT evaluation can help.

How Pediatric PT Supports Safe Sleep

Physical therapists help families:

• Encourage symmetrical head turning

• Improve neck mobility and strength

• Prevent or treat positional head shape changes

• Build healthy motor development through varied awake positioning

• Create individualized routines that support both safe sleep and strong movement skills

 When to Reach Out

Contact our pediatric PT if your baby:

• Prefers looking one direction

• Has difficulty turning their head

• Shows flattening on one side of the head

• Struggles with tummy time

• Seems uncomfortable in the back‑sleeping position

Early support leads to faster progress and healthier development.