Swaddling a newborn baby might seem like an ancient practice, but it’s still a popular method used by parents all over the world to help soothe and calm their little ones.
But why exactly should you swaddle your baby and how do you do it properly? Let’s dive in and find out.
Also see if your newborn baby should sleep with a blanket.
Why you should swaddle your baby
First off, let’s talk about why you should swaddle your baby. Swaddling helps to imitate the feeling of being in the womb. It can provide a sense of security and comfort for your little one. It can also help to keep your baby warm and prevent them from startling themselves awake with their own movements.
How to swaddle your baby
Now, onto the how-to of swaddling. The key to successful swaddling is to make sure your baby is snug and secure. Be sure they are not too tight. You’ll want to use a lightweight, breathable swaddle blanket and make sure it’s big enough to cover your baby from head to toe.
Start by laying the blanket out on a flat surface. With one corner folded down to create a triangle. Place your baby on top of the blanket with their head above the folded corner, and then tuck the left side of the blanket over their body and under their right arm. Next, bring the bottom of the blanket up and over their feet. Next tuck the right side of the blanket over their body and under their left arm.
Now, here’s where the fun begins. Take the remaining corner of the blanket and tuck it under your baby’s chin, making sure their face is clear and they can breathe comfortably. The end result should look like a little burrito, all snug and secure.
It’s important to note that while swaddling can be a great tool for helping your baby sleep, it’s not recommended to continue swaddling beyond 2-3 months or as soon as your baby starts to roll over on their own.
The funny side of swaddling your baby
Now, let’s talk about the funny side of swaddling. You might feel like a pro after your first successful swaddle, but be prepared for some comical moments along the way. For example, your baby may wriggle and squirm like a little worm while you’re trying to swaddle them. They may give you a look that says “What are you doing to me?”
Also, be prepared for some unexpected unswaddling moments. Like when your baby learns how to use their little fingers to undo their swaddle blanket in a matter of seconds.
In conclusion, swaddling can be a great tool for helping your newborn baby sleep better. It’s important to do it properly and to be aware of the limits of swaddling. And always remember to have a sense of humor when it comes to the art of swaddling, because it’s not always going to be a smooth process.