Christmas is Not A Season For Compromise

The Māori SIDS team wishes all parents, caregivers and their whānau a safe Christmas and a prosperous new year.

“Many families with babies will be catching up and celebrating this festive season,” says Māori SIDS spokesperson, Herena Te Wano, “Whether they are staying at home or with whānau, parents need to be vigilant about providing a safe sleeping environment for baby.”

On providing a safe sleeping space Mrs Te Wano says, “Babies need their own dedicated space to sleep. Car seats, couches and prams are not designed for this. Options such as cots, bassinettes or wahakura - a flax bassinette for using in a bed - are the ideal.”

Risk factors for SIDS to avoid include prone sleeping, a lack of breastfeeding, maternal smoking, and bedsharing when mother has smoked during pregnancy.

“The key things parents, caregivers including babysitters should remember is to put baby to sleep on their back, not their tummy, and ensure baby’s face is clear of blankets, no pillows and will not be rolled on by an adult or another child,” advises Mrs Te Wano.

Christmas and New Years are festive times enjoyed by whānau. Mrs Te Wano cautions, “If parents and caregivers are under the influence of drugs, alcohol or overtired they should stay clear of baby.”

Among Māori women there is a high prevalence of smoking, and smoking during pregnancy. Mrs Te Wano contemplates, “The new year is a time for new things and challenges. If quitting smoking is on your radar, then a resolve to achieve this in the new year with the support of whānau and friends is for you. This is absolutely a great decision to make for you and your baby.”

For information and support on how to quit smoking, ring 0800 QUITLINE or contact your local Smoking Cessation or Aukati Kaipaipa provider.

Contact:
Ali Ahu
Operations Assistant
Maori SIDS
Ph: 09 373 7599 ext 89856
Fax: 09 373 7030
Mobile: 027 497 7150
dev.maorisids.org.nz