Is it Safe For Your Child To Sleep With Crib Hanging Toys?

Many parents have a difficult time deciding what to do with their child’s crib. Do they leave it bare? Cover it in blankets and pillows? Or decorate the entire thing from top to bottom with hanging toys?

The truth is, there are many different opinions on whether or not it is safe for your child to sleep with crib hanging toys. This article will focus on this issue, giving you all of the information you need so that you can make an informed decision.

The Importance of a Good Night’s Sleep

The first thing you need to know is that it’s important for your child to get a good night’s sleep. If they are sleeping well, then they will be more energetic and happy throughout the day, making everyone in the household happier too! What many parents don’t realize though is that crib hanging toys can actually help their child get a good night’s sleep.

There are several reasons for this. First of all, hanging toys can keep your child entertained and occupied throughout the night. This can help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Second of all, hanging toys can help stimulate your child’s brain and encourage healthy development. And finally, hanging toys can provide a sense of security for your child. This is especially important if they are transitioning to a big bed from a crib.

There are many different types of crib hanging toys on the market today. You can find toys that dangle, spin or light up. It’s important to choose a toy that is age-appropriate and safe for your child to sleep with.

Takeaway

So, should you let your child sleep with crib hanging toys? The answer to this question really depends on the individual child and their needs. Some children will be perfectly safe sleeping with toys, while others will be better off without them. 

If you are concerned about whether or not it’s safe for your child to sleep with crib hanging toys, then the best thing that you can do is talk to their paediatrician as soon as possible and make a plan together.

When to Avoid Crib Hanging Toys?

Age is a factor to consider when deciding whether or not to hang toys in your child’s crib. Infants and toddlers are the most likely to sleep with hanging toys, as they provide a sense of comfort and security. However, you should avoid hanging toys over your child’s head, as this can be dangerous.

A good practice is not to use crib hanging toys if the child is less than 12-month.  The child’s neck muscles are not strong enough to hold up their head at this age. If you do use a toy, make sure that it is securely attached to the crib and will not fall on your child’s face.

Associated Risks

There are many potential dangers associated with letting a 12-month child sleep with crib hanging toys. Some of these dangers include:

• Suffocation
• Strangulation 
• Entrapment

Suffocation can occur if the child’s nose or mouth becomes covered by the toy. If the toy is made from fabric, it could also cause the child to choke.

Strangulation can occur if the toy becomes wrapped around the child’s neck. This is a particular danger for infants, who are still learning to roll over and move around in their crib.

Entrapment can occur if the toy gets stuck between the crib slats or between the mattress and the side of the crib. This is a particular danger for infants, who can get their head stuck between the mattress and crib.

Problems with Hanging Musical Mobiles

Some parents choose to hang musical mobiles over their child’s crib. Mobiles can be a great way to stimulate your child’s development and help them fall asleep. However, you should avoid hanging mobiles if your child is less than six months old. This is because they can be a choking hazard.

It’s also important to keep the hanging toys in good condition. If they are ripped, torn or broken, it is time to throw them away and buy new ones.

Don’t forget to check this amazing blog on developmentally appropriate toys for children.

How to Ensure Safety of Your Child During Sleep? 

One of the biggest concerns for parents is how to ensure their child’s safety during sleep. There are many potential dangers, and it can be difficult to know which steps to take to protect your child. Here is a detailed description of seven factors you should consider when trying to create a safe sleeping environment for your child.

Bed

First, you will want to make sure your child’s bed is firm and properly fitted. This can be difficult, as most mattresses are designed these days for comfort instead of support. You should also consider using a mattress that has been approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Finally, ensure there aren’t any protruding or sharp edges on the bed that could cause injury.

Comfortable Sleeping Environment

Second, you will want to make sure your child’s sleeping environment is free from potential hazards. This includes making sure all furniture and appliances are properly secured and out of reach. 

It is also important to keep any cords or cables away from where your child sleeps, as these can be a choking hazard.

Room Ventilation

Third, you should make sure your child’s room is well-ventilated. This will help to reduce the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and other respiratory problems. It is also important to avoid using too many blankets or pillows in your child’s crib, as these can increase the risk of suffocation.

Surface Cleaning

Fourth, you will want to make sure your child’s sleeping surface is clean. This includes both the mattress and the bedding. You should also wash your child’s sheets at least once a week.

Avoid Hazardous Chemicals

Fifth, you should avoid using products that contain hazardous chemicals in your child’s crib. This includes things like dyes, lead paint and flame retardants.

Exercise

Sixth, you should try to ensure your child is getting enough exercise during the day. Without this activity they may have trouble sleeping at night. You can make sure your child gets plenty of exercise by making it a point to take them on walks every day besides developing fine motor skills.

Consider using some forms of sensory balls in this regard.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Seventh, you should avoid placing your child’s crib in direct sunlight or near a window. This will help to reduce the risk of SIDS and other heat-related injuries such as burns. In addition, it is best if only one person rocks the baby at night so they can hear her cries more clearly when she needs help.

Final Words

Kids love hanging toys and it’s not always easy to find a way for them to play with something while they are sleeping. However, as we mentioned before there is some debate as to whether or not these items may become hazardous if the baby stands up in their crib.

We recommend that you follow your instincts on this one and remove any dangling toy from the crib once your child can stand up unassisted. This will help minimize the risk of injury should an accident occur and keep both you and your little one safe!