can we make a 3 month old baby sleep on tummy?

Question

Accepted Answer

Placing a three-month-old baby to sleep on their tummy is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that infants be placed on their backs to sleep for every sleep until their first birthday. This practice has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of SIDS.

### Safe Sleep Guidelines:

1. **Back to Sleep**: Always place your baby on their back to sleep, both for naps and at night.
2. **Firm Sleep Surface**: Use a firm sleep surface, such as a mattress in a safety-approved crib, covered by a fitted sheet.
3. **No Soft Bedding**: Keep soft objects, toys, crib bumpers, and loose bedding out of your baby's sleep area.
4. **Sleep in the Same Room**: Have your baby sleep in your room, close to your bed, but on a separate sleep surface designed for infants, for at least the first six months.
5. **Avoid Overheating**: Dress your baby in light sleep clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature.

### Tummy Time:
While placing a baby to sleep on their tummy is not safe, supervised tummy time when the baby is awake and alert is crucial for their development. Tummy time helps strengthen the baby's neck, shoulder, and arm muscles and promotes motor skills.

- **Start Slowly**: Begin with short periods of tummy time a few times a day and gradually increase the duration as your baby gets used to it.
- **Make It Fun**: Use toys and engage with your baby to make tummy time enjoyable.
- **Always Supervise**: Never leave your baby unattended during tummy time.

Following these guidelines will help ensure that your baby sleeps safely and develops properly. If you have specific concerns about your baby's sleep habits or health, it's always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician.