The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Fisher-Price are issuing a critical warning to parents regarding the use of rockers for infant sleep. Specifically, this advisory pertains to the Fisher-Price Infant-to-Toddler and Newborn-to-Toddler Rockers. Tragically, these products have been associated with at least 13 infant fatalities between 2009 and 2021.
While these rockers have not been recalled, experts emphasize that they should never be utilized as sleep environments for infants due to the risk of suffocation. Instead, they can serve as a safe place for your baby to play while you attend to other tasks. It is essential to always supervise your baby and ensure they are securely strapped in while using a rocker. If your little one happens to doze off, promptly transfer them to a designated safe sleep area.
Inclined products such as rockers, swings, and bouncers pose significant risks for babies, as they may fall asleep in positions that compromise their airways or roll out and become trapped. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly advises against using these items for sleep.
The new safety regulations will take effect on June 23, at which point products failing to comply will be subject to recall. However, since Fisher-Price’s rockers aren’t designed for sleep, they will not be recalled currently.
For parents, this means you can continue to use your rocker, but only when your baby is awake. Remember to supervise and securely fasten your child, transferring them to a safe sleep location if they fall asleep.
Safe Sleeping Practices
When it comes to safe sleeping practices, always place babies on their backs for sleep, whether it’s a nap or overnight, until they reach their first birthday. For further insights on safe pregnancy and infant care, consider visiting the World Health Organization’s pregnancy resource.
If you’re navigating the world of parenthood, you might also be interested in our Different Types of Dads blog post, which can provide additional context on family-building options. For those exploring at-home insemination, check out Make A Mom, which offers a unique reusable option and guides you through the process—learn more about how it works here.
Additionally, for a real-life perspective, read about Zoe and Taylor’s journey in our post on a known donor experience here.
To Summarize
The CPSC and Fisher-Price have issued a safety warning against using certain rockers for infant sleep, emphasizing the risks involved. Always supervise babies in rockers and transfer them to a safe sleep space if they fall asleep. For more information about safe practices and resources for family-building, explore the links provided.