"Folding" a newborn baby typically refers to the process of swaddling, which involves snugly wrapping the baby in a blanket to help them feel secure and calm.
Swaddling is a common practice that mimics the feeling of being in the womb, providing comfort and potentially improving sleep for newborns. It helps to prevent the startle reflex (Moro reflex) from waking the baby.
Understanding Swaddling
Swaddling is not about folding the baby's body, but rather folding a blanket securely around the baby. The goal is to create a snug wrap that keeps their arms from flailing while allowing their hips and legs to move freely.
Why Swaddle?
- Comfort: Provides a feeling of security, similar to the womb.
- Calming: Helps soothe fussy babies.
- Sleep: Reduces the startle reflex that can wake a baby.
- Safety: When done correctly, can help keep the baby on their back (though safe sleep guidelines advise stopping swaddling when the baby shows signs of rolling over).
How to Swaddle a Newborn Baby
Swaddling can be done with a square or rectangular swaddling blanket. Here's a common method, incorporating steps referenced in swaddling tutorials:
- Lay the Blanket: Lay the swaddling blanket flat in a diamond shape. Fold the top corner down about six inches to create a straight edge.
- Position the Baby: Place the baby on their back on the blanket, with their neck at the fold. Ensure their head is supported.
- First Side: Take the left side of the blanket. Gently hold the baby's left arm down along their side or slightly bent across their chest. Pull the left side of the blanket across the baby's body and tuck it snugly under their right side.
- Second Side (Referenced Step): Take the right side of the blanket. As described in swaddling guidance, you'll "take the other corner. And same put that arm down onto the chest." Pull this side of the blanket across the baby's body. This often involves bringing it "across the baby to make a v in the neck".
- Tuck the Bottom: Lift the baby's bottom slightly if needed ("lift up his bottom tuck the wrap underneath.") Bring the bottom corner of the blanket up over the baby's feet. Tuck this corner behind the baby's shoulder on one side.
- Final Tuck: The remaining side of the blanket can then be wrapped around the baby's front and tucked into the swaddle on the other side.
Key Considerations for Safe Swaddling:
- Not Too Tight: The swaddle should be snug, but not so tight that it restricts breathing or hip movement. Ensure there is room for two or three fingers between the blanket and the baby's chest.
- Hip Health: The bottom of the swaddle should be loose enough that the baby can move their legs up and outwards, allowing their hips to develop properly. Avoid swaddling with the legs held straight down tightly.
- Back Sleeping: Always place a swaddled baby on their back to sleep.
- Avoid Overheating: Dress the baby lightly underneath the swaddle and monitor for signs of overheating (sweating, damp hair, flushed cheeks, rapid breathing).
- When to Stop: Stop swaddling as soon as the baby shows signs of being able to roll over (usually between 2-4 months).
Swaddling Styles Comparison
While the basic principle is the same, slight variations exist.
| Style Name | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Wrap | Diamond shape, tucking corners around the baby. | Classic method. |
| Swaddle Sacks | Zips up like a sleeping bag, with flaps or arms included/excluded. | Easier than traditional wrap. |
| Velcro Swaddles | Blankets with Velcro tabs for easier securing. | Quick and secure fastening. |
Mastering the swaddle takes a little practice, but it's a valuable skill for soothing a newborn.
