TL;DR
Your baby’s safety during sleep is always the top priority. The safest sleep setup follows the “ABC rule”: Alone, on their Back, in a Crib. Lullabear™ can be part of a soothing bedtime routine when used correctly - always positioned safely beside your baby, never underneath or directly on them. Its rhythmic patting motion is designed to mimic a parent’s gentle touch, helping babies relax while maintaining a safe, breathable sleep environment.
5-Point Summary
- Always place your baby on their back on a firm, flat sleep surface.
- Keep the crib or bassinet completely clear of soft toys, pillows, or loose bedding.
- Lullabear™ should rest securely beside your baby, never touching or covering them.
- The bear’s patting motion soothes your baby safely when used correctly.
- These safe sleep guidelines apply from birth until 12 months of age.
Why Sleep Safety Comes First
Every new parent wants two things: a baby who sleeps well, and a baby who sleeps safely. The good news is that both are possible. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that babies under 12 months should always sleep on their backs, alone, and in a crib or bassinet with a firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet only.
Following these steps dramatically reduces the risk of sleep-related incidents, including suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
The Role of Lullabear™ in Safe Sleep
Lullabear™ was designed to help parents recreate the soothing comfort of a gentle patting motion - the same kind many parents instinctively use to calm their baby’s breathing and heart rate.
Used correctly, Lullabear™ helps babies transition to independent sleep safely by providing a familiar rhythm that mimics a parent’s reassuring touch. The bear’s motion is soft, repetitive, and non-vibrational, designed for relaxation without overstimulation.
How to Use Lullabear™ Safely
1. Correct Placement
Place Lullabear™ next to your baby, not underneath or directly on them. The safest setup is to position it beside your baby’s body, with the patting paw gently touching their back or side while the baby lies on a flat surface on their back.
Once your baby has fallen asleep, you can let Lullabear™ continue patting for its set cycle and then automatically stop, or gently move it slightly away once they are settled.
2. Always Supervise Newborn Use
For newborns (0–3 months), all sleep should be supervised, especially when introducing new soothing tools. Use Lullabear™ only during naps or at the beginning of bedtime while you are nearby.
From 3–6 months onward, once your baby has better head and body control, you can continue to use Lullabear™ beside them for independent soothing.
3. Avoid Placing It on the Baby’s Chest or Face
Never place Lullabear™ directly on your baby’s torso, head, or face. It is designed to rest lightly beside them, not to cover any part of their body. Babies’ airways are delicate, and unrestricted airflow is essential during sleep.
4. Check the Surface and Materials
Ensure your baby’s mattress is firm and flat, and that Lullabear™ rests securely so it cannot roll onto your baby. All Livvewell bears are made from non-toxic, breathable materials, but they should still never be positioned where they could restrict movement or airflow.
5. Stop Using the Patting Function Once Baby Can Roll Over Freely
Around 5 to 6 months, most babies begin rolling in both directions. Once your baby can roll freely, discontinue placing Lullabear™ beside them during unsupervised sleep. Instead, move it slightly away (for example, near their legs or beside the crib edge) to maintain familiarity without risk.
The patting motion can still be used during naps, wind-down time, or as part of the bedtime routine before laying your baby down.
Why the Gentle Patting Motion Works
Physical rhythm has a proven calming effect on infants. Research published in Current Biology found that gentle rhythmic touch helps reduce crying and regulate heart rate in babies (PubMed). This mirrors what happens when parents pat or rock their infants — it stimulates the baby’s vestibular and tactile systems, signaling safety and relaxation.
Lullabear™ was designed to recreate that same soothing pattern without the need for prolonged contact, giving parents relief while maintaining a sense of closeness for the baby.
Age Guidelines for Safe Use
| Age | Use Recommendation |
|---|---|
| 0–3 months | Use Lullabear™ under supervision beside the baby during naps or bedtime. Always place baby on their back on a firm surface. |
| 3–6 months | Continue using Lullabear™ beside the baby’s body for soothing. Do not place it underneath or covering any part of the baby. |
| 6–12 months | Stop direct contact once baby begins rolling. Position Lullabear™ at a safe distance beside the baby or use it as part of a pre-sleep routine. |
| 12+ months | Safe to use Lullabear™ freely in the sleep environment (such as near the crib edge or on the bed beside toddler), as the risk of airway obstruction has significantly decreased. |
Creating a Safe, Soothing Routine
The best way to combine safety and comfort is to make Lullabear™ part of a predictable routine. Use it during the same steps each night - after feeding, before sleep - so your baby associates the rhythmic patting with calm and rest.
Pair it with low light, gentle touch, and quiet moments together. The routine matters as much as the product itself.
Takeaway
Safe sleep and soothing comfort can coexist beautifully when done right.
Remember these key rules:
- Always place your baby on their back.
- Keep the crib clear.
- Use Lullabear™ beside your baby, never underneath or on top.
- Stop contact use once your baby rolls independently.
Lullabear™ gives parents a helping hand by providing calm, rhythmic comfort — safely and gently. When used correctly, it supports both your baby’s rest and your peace of mind.