Negative Environmental Factors in Infant Development

Smoking

• There have been a wide range of studies that show smoking is harmful to infants. Mothers who smoked during their pregnancy or who are exposed to secondhand smoke have lower-weight babies than their nonsmoking peers. A study by Nancy Sowen, RN, PhD, and Marilyn Stember, RN, PhD, published in the "Journal of Perinatal Education" shows that these babies, while lower weight at birth, are more likely to put on weight quickly and have a 70 percent higher chance of becoming obese. In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics points out that infants whose mothers smoked while pregnant increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome by five times, and exposure to secondhand smoke is another risk factor.

Sleep Environment

• Sleep is vital for your baby̵7;s development. Keeping a safe sleep environment is important to help your child get the sleep he needs. While it may seem that infants can sleep anywhere, the AAP points out that there is a difference between active sleep and quiet sleep. Active sleep occurs in loud or hectic environments such as sleeping in a baby swing or in a room full of talking adults. Your child doesn̵7;t sleep as deeply or get the relaxation and rest needed for proper development. Sleep in a quiet room allows your child to get the deep rest he needs. Your child̵7;s immediate sleep environment is also vital to his safety and development. Your child should sleep on his back in his own bed. The sleep surface should be firm and free of blankets, toys or other decorations.

Environmental Stimulation

• Just as too much stimulation can disrupt your baby̵7;s sleep, too little will prevent him from developing to his fullest potential. It is important that parents provide a stimulating environment for infants. This includes talking to your baby, gazing into his face and reading. The American Academy of Physician Assistants says that that it is appropriate to read the same books over and over to an infant since it gives him a sense of familiarity. Infant-safe toys and soft music also provide appropriate levels of stimulation.

Child Care Environment

• If you choose child care outside the home, it is vital to monitor the baby̵7;s daily environment. The room should be clean and neat with age-appropriate toys. Check the diaper-changing procedure for hygienic practices. Your baby should get the food he needs at regular intervals. If you are breastfeeding, check the storage and heating procedure for your milk. Check the infant to adult ratio. The AAP recommends no more than three infants for every adult for safety and optimal growth.