Decatur Memorial Hospital providing sleeping sacks for newborns
Decatur Memorial Hospital started giving out sleeping sacks to the parents of a newborn last month. Officials hope this will spread awareness and save more lives.
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The hospital is taking a new approach when caring for babies and their families. One nurse said it's important as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, also called SIDS, is starting to rise.
'It is the leading cause of death in infants under one years old,' said nurse manager Danielle Collins. 'And that leads to a variety of different things. It leads to people co-sleeping with their baby, people seeing different things that are not safe on the market for their baby to use.'
Collins said to babies, the tight-fitting sleep sacks are comfortable because it symbolizes the womb. In the last few weeks, the hospital has passed out nearly 40 of them.
'This has been in works for well over six-eight months of getting the sleep sacks purchased, the foundation providing them for us,' Collins said.
The Illinois Department of Human Services said every three days a baby in Illinois dies in their sleep. The hospital's foundation director, Paul Lidy, said Decatur Memorial has 1,100 sleeping sacks ready to go which will hopefully prevent this problem from getting worse.
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'Our goal is to help right from the get-go with a new baby to make sure that they are safely sleeping,' Lidy said.
He said the stock is expected to last until 2026, since normally they average between 800-900 births a year.
'We used to give out a baby spoon, something that was sentimental but maybe not as usable,' Lidy said. 'This is a direct way that we can impact that baby by safe swaddling them.'
Collins said they're just pushing the initiative to avoid common causes of infant death.
'Myself and my team are here to do every day, day in, day out,' Collins said. 'We want to provide the best quality care we can for our patients; see them not only as a patient, but as a family.'
These sleeping sacks are available to every newborn in the hospital.
The Illinois Department of Human Services said bed sharing with an infant is up to 10 times higher now. In 2022, there were more than 1,500 deaths related to SIDS.
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The design is both fun and functional — it's sturdy, safe, and easy for little ones to maneuver on their own. I really appreciate how it encourages independent play and helps build balance and coordination. The smile on our child's face every time they hop on is priceless. Highly recommend this to any parent looking for a fun, well-made riding toy that will keep their little one moving and entertained!" —Debi EpsteinPrice: $32.99+ (originally $45.99+; available in eight colors) The newest Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for 50% off you can simply plug into your existing TV, so the whole fam stream all the shows, movies, and music you want at the push of a button on your next movie night at home. Promising review: "After our Apple TV gave out on us we were on the search for another, but OH MY how expensive they are! We decided to try the Fire Stick and I honestly think it is better than our Apple TV. Setting it up was a breeze and there's no tangled mess of wires behind the tv anymore! It is so easy to figure out how it works, and they provide so many different channels and streaming options! The remote looks like the Apple TV remote but with some great added features. But the biggest thing that makes this product a 5 star rating, is the price it is worth every penny! If you're trying to find your next smart tv investment this is it!" —Hailey WellsPrice: $24.99 (originally $49.99) A trio of Touchland hand sanitizer sprays for 30% off great to have *handy* for curious littles who have to touch everything. They even have cases you can put the sanitizer in to clip onto your bag for easy access. Promising review: "I love this hand sanitizer spray. Not only does it smell amazing, but I feel like it doesn't dry my skin. I also purchased the holder. I can conveniently hang it in my purse for easy access. This was a win for sure!" — $21 (originally $30; available in a variety of pack sizes and colors) An inflatable bounce castle for 32% off to turn your living room (or backyard) into a royal palace. It'll become the scene of endless hops, flips, and giggle-fueled collisions. And when your kiddo's all done? They'll be completely drained of energy. Win! Promising review: "If you're considering buying this, you can't go wrong! Got it for my two-year-old's birthday party, it was perfect for the price, and now we have it in our living room. Great quality. We've had five toddlers and a couple of older kids playing in it. We also play in it with our two-year-old." —Amazon CustomerPrice: $43.49 (originally $63.99) An adorable little puppy night-light for 38% off with a soft white glow that makes it the perfect critter for gently illuminating bedrooms and bathrooms at night. It even has eight different color modes so your kiddo can enjoy having that purple dog they keep dreaming about! Promising review: "So cute and they work great! The light is the perfect brightness to see, but not too bright that it's annoying in the middle of the night. Changing the colors is easy, and I like how it goes off when there's enough light in the room." —JasPrice: $9.99 (typically $15.98) A 36-pack of Play-Doh for 25% off so the next time it's raining and everyone's all, "I'm BORRRED," you can unleash go into Full Chaos Play-Doh Build Mode to pass the time. Promising review: "The 36-pack Play-Doh set is an absolute creativity booster! With a wide variety of colors, it offers endless possibilities for sculpting, mixing, and imaginative play. My daughter loves crafting everything from animals to pretend food, bringing her ideas to life with vibrant shades. The quality is excellent, with soft, pliable dough that's easy to mold and shape. Whether she's making detailed sculptures or playful scenes, this set keeps her engaged for hours." —ArwenPrice: $20.49 (typically $27.49) A 32-pack of Energizer AA batteries for 33% off because now that you have kids, holidays and birthdays have become a fruitless game of "hide and seek" through your junk drawers, while you desperately try and find batteries to turn on whatever gadget or gizmo your kids got. Promising review: "Great box of batteries for all your children's toys, Xbox and PlayStation controllers, anything you need them for a really really good price." —David scruggsPrice: $13.29 (originally $19.98) Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza for 20% off, a DEEPLY beloved, fast-paced card game suitable for kids and adults that will have everyone in fits of high stake giggles in no time. Bonus: each game only lasts 10–15 minutes, so you can go one or a few rounds depending on how much time you've got together. Promising review: "Bought this by accident because I thought these were baby flash cards. Saw these were actually a card game and tried it with my husband and fell in love with this game. It's fun and competitive :D" —ChocorateChippuPrice: $7.99 (typically $9.99) Vacation's Classic Whip SPF 30 for 20% off, a wildly beloved "dessert for your skin" that feels so lightweight and decadent to apply that reviewers can't get enough of it. (No, REALLY. This is selling out all over 😭.) Not only does it feel ridiculously indulgent, but it's water-resistant and sensitive skin-friendly. Plus, your kids are going to think putting on sunscreen is hilarious. Win, win. Check out a TikTok of Vacation's Classic Whip SPF 30 in that the AAD recommends using at least SPF 30 and reapplying as needed for skin protection. You can read about sunscreen myths and facts from dermatologists for more information! Promising review: "Smells SO GOOD! This sunscreen smells so nostalgic and I love the whipped cream play. Makes me much more excited about putting sunscreen on. A little bit goes a long way, and it's pretty thick on the skin. Breaks down into a lotion kind of and turned out to be too oily for my face specifically, but love it for my body. Will be buying this again!" —averyPrice: $18.40 (typically $23) — with a free air freshener included! Built's "Puff Protein Bars" for 20% off that are basically chocolate-covered marshmallows that also, by some witchcraft, have 17 entire grams of protein in them?? And NO weird aftertaste. If you are a parent who is often in a state of "I need protein or I will bite someone's brain off," I am telling you, nothing in this WORLD will feel better than pulling one of these out of your bag. Hello, I'm a walking cliché of Woman In Her Mid-30s Who Is Very Obsessed With Protein, since it took me three decades to realize I'm in a much better mood all day if I cram it in at every opportunity. I'm very, VERY picky about the protein bars I'll eat — Barebells and Nick's are my go-tos — and these Built bars knocked it out of the park! They have a truly marshmallow-like consistency and the most ridiculously satisfying texture and chewiness. The flavors I've tried have all been spot-on, and they don't leave any kind of aftertaste. I am perpetually out and about and in need of a snack, so I have one of these in my purse at all times!Price: $23.99+ for a pack of 12 (typically $29.99; available in 10 flavors).Don't miss out on the grocery deals available this Prime Day. 62% off the latest model of Blink outdoor security cameras (the cheapest they go for, and the first time they've been this price in 2025) offering 1080p HD day and infrared night footage so you can keep your home safe and snug right from your phone. The kit is easy to install (even if you're not tech savvy), you can save and send video, and there's even two-way talk so you can call your kids in from the backyard without having to, ahem, *raise your voice.* Squirrels need to eat, too, but I get it. These wire-free security cameras come with two-year batteries and a free 30-day Blink trial. The subscription is not necessary, but it offers extra features like video storage and person detection. Promising review: "I've never owned a home camera before so I asked around and did my research…The app alone is AMAZING! The quality of the video is great and you can adjust it how you want as far as motion detection. The night And the fact that I can talk to my dog and hear him if he barks…I would definitely recommend both indoor and outdoor cameras. THEY ARE AMAZING!!!"—Jomyra MalavePrice: $99.99 for a set of three (originally $259.99; available in many sets) — and shop all the Blink deals here A pack of Scrubbing Bubbles toilet cleaning stamps for 30% off so you can polish your toilet without ever having to pick up a dirty toilet brush, which just might convince your kids to actually *chose* cleaning the bathroom during Saturday chores. The stamp releases the cleaning gel, which foams and cleans your toilet. Promising review: "I was sooo skeptical and was confused about how they'd work but the gel solidifies and with every flush, suds wash through with the water and it really makes a fresh difference. Also the scent is light but really nice and fresh! I recommend these 100%! They're super interesting but they do the job." —JanetPrice: $3.25 (regularly $4.67) An indoor scavenger hunt game for 62% off that'll keep kiddos busy on those rainy summer days and when the weather gets chilly again. It'll keep your tykes out of your hair (for a little while at least), and it's the most discounted this item has been yet! A win-win, if you ask me. Promising review: "I bought this for a 3 1/2 year old and a 5-year-old. It was such a hit!!! We'd play for a while, have to stop for something, and they'd ask if we could play it some more. Lots of repeat play. Other people around asked where it was from and thought that it would be great for any group play or party for kids. I bought the indoor one, but I'm sure the others are great too!" —Ann BurgessPrice: $7.57 (originally $19.97) A 7-in-1 climber for 62% off that'll bring the playground inside in the best possible way. With rainbow slats, multiple climbing elements, and a foldable design for easy storage, it's basically a toddler jungle gym that won't make you wince every time you walk past it. And right now it's at the lowest price it ever goes for. Promising review: "This set has been an absolute lifesaver for keeping our toddler active and engaged both indoors and outdoors! The colorful design is even more stunning in person, and it brightens up our playroom while being just as fun to use in the backyard. It's incredibly versatile and sturdy, offering endless ways to play. My son loves climbing, sliding, and even using the ramp as a racetrack for toy cars. The semi-circle doubles as a tunnel and a rocking chair, making it a great sensory tool for little explorers. It's ideal for developing gross motor skills and sparking creativity. The quality is excellent, and it feels built to last through all the climbing, sliding, and imaginative play our toddler can dream up. Highly recommend for any parent looking for a safe, engaging, and adaptable play solution!" —Clay SheppardPrice: $99.99 (originally $259.99; available in five color combinations) A Peppa Pig version of Monopoly Junior for 50% off you can count on to make your kids more excited than ever for a family game night. Beware, you might all fight over who gets to be Daddy Pig, though (dibs!!!) Promising review: "I bought this board game for my granddaughter, and it's been an absolute hit. She's a Peppa Pig fan, so seeing her favorite characters on the board made her light up with excitement. It's a fun, simplified version of Monopoly that's easy for little ones to understand and play without getting overwhelmed. I especially love that this game gives her a break from the constant screen time on iPads and tablets, which is something I'm very mindful of. It's important to me that she engages in activities that stimulate her mind and allow for face-to-face interaction, and this game does exactly that. We've had some wonderful bonding time playing together, and it keeps her entertained while learning basic counting, money skills, and taking turns. I highly recommend this to any family with young kids—fun, educational, and most importantly, screen-free." —Bling QueenPrice: $9.99 (originally $19.99) A *red* Toniebox Audio Player Starter Set for 44% off, which is essentially a tiny stereo that toddlers can control all on their own, just by swapping out which character magnetically sits on top of it. Each individual figure tells different stories and sings different songs — it's a great way to keep kids entertained without a screen. This toy has bought me so much time. My kids adore theirs — even though they're only 3 and 1 — they have no problem understanding how to turn the Toniebox on, change the volume, and place different characters on top to tell various stories. He's a big fan, as am I! It can also be used while it's charging, so there's no need to worry about your toddler having a meltdown if they want to play with it while the battery is drained (phew). This specific kit comes with the Toniebox as well as Tonies figures of Woody, Lightning McQueen, Simba, Winnie-The-Pooh, and Playtime are so many different Tonies you can add to keep the fun going — check 'em $99 (originally $159.99, other colorways reflect this price) and check out everything else on sale from Tonies! 33% off a Nanit monitor and wall mount to help you keep a watchful eye on your babe while they sleep — you can also easily see stats on how long they've been asleep or if they're standing and not-so-patiently waiting for you to come scoop 'em up. I switched to the Nanit monitoring system when my daughter was born because the app has an incredible split-screen option that lets me watch both kiddos at once — it's been a game changer. It's super easy to set up, and once you've done so, there's nothing more to do but the occasional software update. The app itself is simple: it shows you a view of your kiddo's crib, notes how long they've been asleep, if they're crying, or if they're standing. The audio and picture is so clear (including the night mode) and the camera itself is unobtrusive to my kids' rooms' decor. I also love that even if I'm out (rarely) I can check in on my sleeping babies for some peace of review: "This baby monitor is an absolute parenting game-changer — a solid 10/10 in every possible way! The seamless synchronization with your phone, even when you're away from home, is revolutionary. The real-time alerts for sound and motion keep you informed about every move your little one makes. The standout feature is the ability to meticulously track your baby's sleep patterns, capturing every waking moment, putting down, and sweet falling asleep. Revisiting memories of your baby sleeping is an emotional treasure, and the expert advice on optimizing sleep for your child is a priceless addition. If you seek a baby monitor that seamlessly integrates advanced technology with practical parenting insights, look no further. This monitor has elevated my parenting journey, offering unparalleled peace of mind and heartwarming memories. A resounding 10/10!" —Savannah WoodenPrice: $199.99 (originally $299.99) Up to 39% off an Instant Pot Vortex Plus air fryer for anyone who's allergic to cooking but wants to eat something other than takeout and microwave meals. And given all its features — not only is it an air fryer, but it can also broil, roast, dehydrate, bake, and reheat — even self-proclaimed cooking enjoyers may find themselves using this gadget instead of their oven! Promising review: "I do all the cooking in our house, and I was debating about purchasing an air fryer. I had heard good things about them, but I just did not see myself using an air fryer all that much. I figured it was just another high-priced kitchen gadget that would end up gathering dust. I did a lot of research and watched a YouTube video from America's Test Kitchen where this air fryer came in number one. I decided to purchase this air fryer. I can tell you after a couple of months that I use this product at a minimum of 4 or 5 times a week! I have made pork chops, steaks, and chicken breasts, and it is great for reheating items. But the winner is two things. It makes the very best bacon with little mess, and it makes chicken wings perfectly. I purchased some Buffalo Wild Wings sauces, and my family has buffalo wing night every couple of weeks for one-fourth the cost of going out. It is also very easy to clean and almost no mess at all. If you are considering buying an air fryer, take the leap and get this one. I could truly not recommend it more highly." —wwrrmm1953Price: $64.99+ (typically $106.37+; available in two sizes) — and shop all the Instant Pot deals here 34% off a full HD Dash Cam (setting a new record for lowest-ever price!), so you can take off on your summer road trip with some added peace of mind. This gadget features built-in Wi-Fi GPS, night vision, and a parking monitor so all of your bases are covered. Promising review: "We purchased this camera about 18 months ago and it has now paid for itself 100x over when it provided evidence to the police and insurance that my wife was not the one at fault in an accident that totaled her vehicle, and the other party lied to the police. It was easy to install and had clear instructions. Great suction cup with integrated GPS antenna, which made installation a breeze. The camera will slide off the mount if you want to hide it while parked without removing the entire mount. Crystal clear video, front at 4K and back at 2K, produces high resolution video where you can read license plates and even identify who was driving another vehicle." —Prime RiskPrice: $85.49 (typically $129.99) And finally, 20% off Death Wish Instant Coffee Packets for parents who, like me, don't brag about how well they can hold their liquor but their caffeine. If you can handle the 300mg of caffeine per cup – these are the beans for your child-rearing life. Note: According to the Mayo Clinic, up to 400mg of caffeine is safe for most healthy adults. Check out a TikTok of the Deathwish Instant Coffee in action. (Also I read at least one review of someone PUTTING THIS IN THEIR MORNING SMOOTHIE, some of you are WILD.) Death Wish Coffee is a small business that specializes in coffee pods, grounds, whole beans, and more. Promising review: "So let me start by saying that this coffee is delicious and works if you're someone like me who wants to stay awake. I work night shifts at a hospital, and in the mornings, when I get home, I'm quite tired and sleepy. I made myself a cup of coffee and waited for it to work. Now let me tell y'all!!! This coffee kept me awake for hours!! BOY, WAS I WOWED INDEED … best believe I went ahead and ordered three more boxes. This is now my to-go coffee if I need a BOOST!!!!!! If you like coffee and want to stay awake, then BUY THIS COFFEE!!! I'm happy I no longer have to take naps to get re-energized." —nancyPrice: $8.79 for a ten-pack (originally $10.99)
