How does self-righting help the infant?
- Prevents suffocation: When an infant is lying on its back and unable to turn its head, it can become suffocated if its face is covered by bedding or other objects. Self-righting helps to prevent this by allowing the infant to turn its head to the side and clear its airway.
- Reduces the risk of SIDS: SIDS is the leading cause of death in infants under one year old. The exact cause of SIDS is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a combination of factors, including the infant's sleeping position, age, and environment. Self-righting is thought to help reduce the risk of SIDS by preventing suffocation and keeping the infant's airway clear.
- Promotes motor development: Self-righting is also an important part of motor development. It helps the infant to develop the muscles in its neck and back and to learn how to control its body movements.
When should an infant develop self-righting?
Most infants develop self-righting by the age of 3-4 months. However, some infants may take longer to develop this skill. If you are concerned that your infant is not developing self-righting on time, talk to your doctor.