All pediatricians formally advise against having baby sleep on his stomach because this position presents many risks. However, some babies like to fall asleep in this position which they find comforting, so at what age is it possible to put baby to sleep on his stomach without risk?

Why shouldn't baby sleep on his stomach?

All child sleep specialists agree on one point: the tummy-down sleeping position should be avoided. According to statistics, having the baby sleep on his stomach multiplies by five the risks of unexpected death of the infant. Babies should sleep on their backs.

The Canadian Paediatric Society and the Government of Canada recommend that parents allow their infant to move freely so that his or her neck is mobile - even on the stomach when awake and provided that the infant is supervised. She also recommends varying the baby's postures, encouraging him to turn his head spontaneously by touch, sight or voice.

Moreover, laying baby on his side is not recommended either because this position is not stable and the child very often tips over on his stomach.

Tips for a safe sleep

The conditions to offer your child a safe sleep are not difficult to apply, but must be scrupulously respected. It is important to choose a firm mattress that is perfectly adapted to the size of the bed (no space between the mattress and the bars).

Make sure you don't leave any stuffed animals in the baby's bed, only his blanket. No comforters, no pillows, no blankets, no sheets. Nothing in which baby can bury his head.

Baby should sleep in a sleeping bag. The ideal temperature of the room should be between 18 and 20°C.

When can baby sleep on his tummy?

The stomach position offers advantages such as preventing plagiocephaly (flat head), or relieving colic.

It is possible to put baby to sleep on his stomach during his awakening periods and under the supervision of the parents. It is also recommended to accustom the child from the first months to play in this position for short periods (not more than 15 minutes) and several times a day, so that he strengthens his neck muscles and learns to raise his head.

It is only at 6 or 8 months that baby will have the strength to turn over on his own in his bed. This is the proof that his muscle tone is sufficient for him to be able to raise his head and change position by himself. But in any case, it is important to always put your child to sleep on his back without a pillow, at least until he is one year old.