The Swaddling Blanket
The Importance of a Swaddling Blanket
The comfort your newborn is the most important priority of a new parent. Choosing the right swaddling blanket can be a tough decision. So many choices!
A newborn baby needs to be kept warm and comforted. To help them feel safe in the big world he or she has just entered, swaddling is so important. Many use this method to calm a overstimulated baby, and always to comfort them.
You will need a blanket that is warm enough to keep baby warm, yet light enough to not overheat them. Keep in mind that a baby is being held quite a lot, and this will also tend to overheat a baby. A single layer cotton flannel is a wonderful choice. Although all blankets by Bella Bubs are prewashed in Dreft, we recommend that you also prewash your blankets before using them.
Another great reason for swaddling: baby fingernails! Baby can accidentally scratch themselves if given a moment. When the arms are loose and flailing (the startle reflex), baby will not sleep peacefully..who could possibly sleep like that? Swaddling will help baby to sleep more soundly.
In this day and age, while in the hospital, you will most likely get a free lesson on the art of swaddling. First, it’s important to make sure your baby is not hungry, or wet.
How do I swaddle my baby?
1) Lay your flannel blanket on a flat surface, folding down the top corner about 6 inches.
2) Place your baby on the blanket with his/her head on the fold.
3) Pull the corner near baby’s left hand across his body, and tuck the edge under his right arm.
4) Pull the botton corner up under baby’s chin.
5) Bring the loose corner over your baby’s right arm and tuck it under the back of his left side.
If your baby prefers to have his arms free, just swaddle him under his arms. This will allow access to his hands and fingers.
0 comments Saturday 19 Jan 2008 | admin | Uncategorized
