Safe Sleep

Because one preventable death
is one too many.

Sleep-related deaths are the leading cause of infant death in Oklahoma — and they’re 100% preventable. The resources below are here to help every caregiver understand how to create safe sleep environments from day one.

Ali Dodd’s Story

“We lost Shepard when he was only 11 weeks old, and it was completely preventable.” – Ali Dodd

What Does Safe Sleep Look Like?

The ABCs of Safe Sleep:

Alone — Baby sleeps alone, no toys, pillows or blankets.

Back — Always place baby on their back to sleep.

Crib — Use a flat, firm sleep surface like a crib or bassinet.

Car seats, swings or nursing pillows are not safe for sleep — even for naps.

Safe Sleep Resources for:

Providers

Families

Shepard’s Law: What It Does — and What’s Still Missing

“We don’t stop these kinds of deaths without training, education, and better policies.” – Ali Dodd

Ali Dodd helped Oklahoma pass Shepard’s Law to require safe sleep training in licensed child care.

But gaps remain — ongoing reminders, training and education are needed.

Community awareness and advocacy are still critical.

For Child Care Providers:

Safe Sleep Starts With You

You play a vital role in protecting the babies in your care. Safe sleep isn’t just a best practice — it’s a responsibility.

Sleep-related deaths can happen in minutes. Whether you're in a center, home-based setting or caring for just one infant, your training and environment choices matter.

Are you following safe sleep practices?

Ask yourself (and your coworkers):

Are babies always placed on their backs, even for naps?

Do you use only flat, firm surfaces like cribs or play yards?

Are all blankets, pillows, toys and bumpers removed from sleep areas?

Have all staff received safe sleep training and refreshers?

Are parents informed of your safe sleep policy?

Access Safe Sleep Training

What’s Required in Oklahoma?

Under Shepard’s Law, safe sleep training is required for licensed providers. But licensed doesn’t always mean prepared.

Make sure your entire team is trained, confident, and consistent — because the stakes are too high for anything less.

Review Child Care Licensing Rules

Be a Trusted Partner for Families

Your commitment can save a life.

If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to your licensing agency or local public health contact for support.

Display your safe sleep policy.

Invite parents to ask questions.

Share resources and model safe sleep habits daily.

Trusted Safe Sleep Resources

American Academy
of Pediatrics
Safe sleep guidelines from leading pediatricians.

Safe to Sleep
Campaign (NICHD)
National guidance
on reducing SIDS risk.

Oklahoma Infant
Mortality Data
Understand the leading causes of infant death in the state.

Visit HealthyChildren.org

Learn More About Safe Sleep

Find Safe Sleep Resources

Oklahoma Support Programs
for Families

Children First Program

In-home nurse visits for first-time moms, including safe sleep support.

Visit Children First

Maternal Mental Health Services

Support for postpartum depression, anxiety and emotional well-being.

Find Support

Child Guidance Program

Help with development, behavior and parenting — including safe sleep tips.

Explore Resources

Not all caregivers are trained in safe sleep.

Use this checklist when visiting providers:

Where do babies sleep during the day?

Are cribs used for all naps?

Are all staff trained in infant safe sleep practices?

Is your facility insured and regularly inspected?

What Parents Should Ask When Choosing Child Care

Help Us Spread the Word

“I didn’t want another Oklahoma family to go through what we went through that day and continue to go through.” – Ali Dodd

Share this page with other parents.

Ask your child care provider how they handle sleep.

Talk to your pediatrician about safe sleep.

Get involved in local advocacy.