Pediatrics recommends sleeping on the back as the safest position for babies to sleep. The crib should meet current safety standards and babies should sleep on a firm, flat mattress at naptime and nighttime. Slats of the crib should not be wider than a soft drink can. Remove soft, fluffy items such as quilts, comforters, pillows and stuffed animals from the crib, and do not let baby get too hot. Supervised "tummy time" is important while babies are awake. Tell others who help take care of your baby (family, friends, babysitters, child care providers) to place your baby on his or her back while sleeping.

Why does my baby need regular health checkups (doctor's visits)?

Infants, children and youth should get regular health checks-ups to make sure they are healthy. These routine check-ups are often called well-baby or well child exams. They are important in addition to "sick-child" visits, because they can find health problems early. Well-child visits also assure you that your child is growing and developing normally.

How can I protect my baby from lead poisoning?

One of the first things you can do to help protect your baby from lead poisoning is to know what causes it. Lead dust is the primary source of lead poisoning today. Lead dust can be caused by deteriorating lead-based paint. This is paint that is chipping, peeling or flaking. Lead-based paint is often found in homes built before 1978. Lead dust can also come from other sources. Remodeling or renovation can also cause lead dust. Children from age six months to six years (seventy-two months) are at the highest risk for lead poisoning due to their immature developing body systems and their "hand to mouth" habits. It is recommended that all children have their blood tested for lead at least twice in the first 24 months, usually at 12 and 24 months of age. You may find that in some circumstances, your child is required to have his or her blood tested for lead. Lead poisoning can have long-term effects on your baby's hearing, growth, learning and behavior. The only way to know if your child has lead poisoning is to have a blood test done. Pregnant women, who are at risk by their history or where they live, should consider being tested.