|
TOPEKA – (May 11, 2026) – The Kansas State Child Death Review Board is partnering with KIDS Network to promote infant safe sleep, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach announced today.
The review board, housed at the Kansas Attorney General’s Office, approved the purchase of $5,000 in sleep sacks that will be delivered in the coming days to the Kansas Infant Death and SIDS (KIDS) Network for distribution at Safe Sleep Community Baby Showers statewide. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to preventing sleep-related infant deaths by equipping families with practical tools and education on safe sleep practices. Sleep-related deaths, including those from Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), remain a leading cause of infant mortality in Kansas and nationwide. Consistent safe sleep education and resources can significantly reduce these preventable tragedies.
“Every infant death is a profound loss, and the State Child Death Review Board is dedicated to turning data into action that protects Kansas families,” said Attorney General Kris Kobach. “By collaborating with the KIDS Network, we are providing tangible support—sleep sacks—to help parents create safer sleep environments while raising awareness of proven prevention strategies.”
Sleep sacks are wearable blankets designed to keep infants warm and safe without the hazards of loose bedding. They reduce the risk of suffocation or entrapment by eliminating the need for blankets, which can accidentally cover an infant’s face. This makes sleep sacks an effective, evidence-based tool aligned with American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations for safe infant sleep.
New and expectant parents are strongly encouraged to follow the ABCs of Safe Sleep:
A – Alone: Infants should sleep alone in their own sleep space, without sharing a bed with adults, siblings, or pets. Room-sharing (but not bedsharing) is recommended for the first six months.
B – On their Back: Always place babies on their back to sleep for every nap and nighttime.
C – In a Clutter-Free Crib: Use a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or portable crib with a firm mattress and fitted sheet. Keep the sleep area empty—no pillows, blankets, bumpers, or toys.
“Safe sleep can feel overwhelming for new parents, and we’re incredibly grateful for this partnership that helps make caring for an infant a little easier and safer. By providing sacks at Safe Sleep Community Baby Showers, families can immediately put what they’ve learned into practice,” Christy S. Schunn, executive director of the KIDS Network.
The KIDS Network’s Community Baby Showers (also known as Safe Sleep Community Baby Showers or Crib Clinics) are interactive, educational events for new and expectant parents and community providers. These baby showers combine celebration with hands-on learning about infant safe sleep, maternal child health, and available resources. Sleep sacks purchased through this initiative will be distributed at upcoming showers across Kansas to help families put safe sleep practices into action immediately.
Find upcoming Community Baby Showers here.
To learn more about safe sleep resources, visit the KIDS Network website at http://www.kidsks.org. The Kansas State Child Death Review Board reviews child fatalities to identify trends and recommend prevention strategies. The KIDS Network works statewide to support families affected by infant death and to promote education that prevents future losses.
### |