In order to save as many precious lives as possible, First Candle remains committed to ensuring that lifesaving messages are delivered to parents and caregivers frequently and consistently.

These programs and others are funded in part by the Maternal and Child Health Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

First Candle is conducting two ground-breaking campaigns to address these issues. Critical to the success of these programs is our ability to provide education, training and technical support to hospital systems and health professionals. By working together, we can create new standards of care for babies that have the potential to prevent infant deaths.

Kicks Count!
Kicks Count! encourages pregnant mothers to monitor their baby’s kicks every day during their last trimester and to report any significant and sustained change in their baby’s normal activity levels to their health care provider right away. Kick counting is now recognized as the first proactive strategy that may help reduce the risk of late-term stillbirth. This campaign is funded in part by All Baby and Child, Inc.

Bedtime Basics for Babies
Bedtime Basics for Babies emphasizes the importance of safe sleep in preventing infant deaths. The campaign reminds parents and caregivers that the safest place for a baby to sleep is in a crib that meets current safety standards. The baby should be dressed in light sleep clothing and a wearable blanket or other type sleeper should be used instead of loose blankets to keep the baby warm if needed. The campaign also focuses on the dangers of bed sharing. Parents and caregivers should never fall asleep with their baby in an adult bed or on a couch or armchair. This campaign is funded in part by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.