Benefits of Swaddling Your Newborn

BUT WHY DO WE SWADDLE?

Wrapping our babies up like burritos…. It seems kind of bizarre right? Well, there is some science behind why we do this and how it helps your baby calm down and sleep better. 

In 1994, the American Academy of Pediatrics shared that parents should be ensuring our newborn babies sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Now this sounds simple, but it can feel IMPOSSIBLE for some babies to be happy to sleep on their backs. Well here is how the swaddle can help! To learn more about safe sleep, and HOW the heck to MAKE IT HAPPEN, read my blog here.

Have you ever been told by an older relative or friend that if you just put your baby to sleep on their stomach they will sleep better? Well… they actually might, but you still don’t want to do it, their back is safest. The reason it may help is that our babies are born with a moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex. Have you noticed that your newborn jerks occasionally, and if they are sleeping it wakes them up? This is the Moro/startle reflex in full swing. In the womb, this was never an issue as they were snug and protected in your tummy! This is where swaddling comes in! Swaddling your baby keeps their arms contained, helping them to feel snug and secure, just like they would in the womb. The best part is that swaddling keeps this reflex happily contained whilst they are safely snoozing on their backs. 

WHAT KIND OF SWADDLE WOULD YOU SUGGEST?

Personally, I prefer to stay away from full swaddle blankets. They are complicated for new and tired parents, and they’re mostly never wrapped snug enough. They also pose a risk to come undone causing a bassinet full of loose blankets (remember we want the bassinet or crib to be totally bare to be safe). 

To make your life easier I would purchase a zipper or velcro swaddle. These swaddles will keep your baby feeling nice and cozy, without overheating with a bunch of blankets. Plus, it’s just super quick, easy and convenient for parents and middle of the night feedings and changes. Every minute matters when you’re sleep deprived!!

One of my favourite swaddles out there is the Ollie Swaddle (pictured above). This swaddle is velcro, helping them to stay snuggly and cozy for longer. I used this swaddle with my first daughter, and I have 4 ready to re-use with my second!

This is not sponsored... I just genuinely think they are fab swaddles that really do what they are supposed to do!

This swaddle is great quality and keeps your baby lovely and snug (helping them to sleep better and longer). You can find the Ollie Swaddle here.

BUT MY BABY HATES BEING SWADDLED!

Don’t worry… I believe you! Swaddling can be a real art and can take some practice. It is all about a little technique, timing and practice.

If you are struggling, I have a Newborn Sleep Guide that is there to guide you through it, step by step. This downloadable sleep guide is a comprehensive handbook for surviving the fourth trimester, it includes education & direction on setting a helpful sleep foundation for your newborn baby. It’s purpose is to give you a sense of direction, confidence and empowerment during this typically wonderful, but exhausting time.

There is SO MUCH information out there. This guide keeps it simple and all in one place. No need to scour the internet in the middle of the night anymore, you’ll have all the information you need, right here!