If you have watched or attended the newborn class "Will I Ever Sleep Again?", you know that newborns long for the womb those first few months after birth. They love the security of feeling snug while sleeping, and this is exactly what swaddling offers.* However, as the saying goes "all good things must come to an end," and this is the case with swaddling.
*If your little one hates to be swaddled, this class addresses that too. You can learn more about the newborn sleep class HERE.
When do I stop swaddling?
There isn't a universal baby age for coming out of the swaddle; instead, you'll want to stop swaddling when it's developmentally appropriate for your baby. We stop swaddling when your little one rolls from back to tummy, or you suspect he is about to start rolling from back to tummy. For most babies, this happens between 3-5 months of age (However, every baby is different; there is no reason to worry if your baby is a little ahead or behind this range.). The reason to stop swaddling at this point is safety. Once a baby can flip onto his tummy, he needs his hands free to push up from the mattress.
Again remember, every baby is different. This transition for some babies really does require patience, and then for some, this transition is very easy. With that in mind, don't rush out of the swaddle; if your baby is not showing signs of rolling over, there is no reason to stop swaddling yet.
How do I conquer this transition?
Just move her into a sleep sack with arms free. Nested Bean (enter CARA15 at checkout for 15% off) has a great one. The little bean on it feels like your hand gently touching your baby's chest or back.
2) Swaddle With One Arm Out.
This works great with a swaddle like The Ollie Swaddle or The Nested Bean Zen Swaddle. Swaddle snuggly like you have been doing but leave one arm out. This gives your baby a chance to adjust slowly, but she will still be safe if she rolls onto her tummy.
Do this for 1-4 weeks; then, when your baby is adjusting well with one arm unrestrained, allow both arms free. Follow your baby's lead on the exact timing.
If your baby hasn't yet rolled, the "partial night" option may be best. With this technique, you may implement one of the above suggestions. When he awakens, swaddle him back up with arms inside the swaddle. Each night try to go a bit longer with arms free. Babies coming out of the swaddle too early can cause major sleep disruptions.
4) Implement a transitional item to help with this transition.
Another item is The ZippadeeZip. The star shaped design and slight resistance in the wingspan allows a baby to move around freely while still providing the enclosed, cozy sensation babies enjoy so much in the swaddle and the womb.
Have a 3-4 Month Old?
This is a hard time for many parents as huge developmental strides are happening at this age. Please read my advice HERE. I have an entire page of my website dedicated just for you.
What can be done if sleep is completely derailed after the swaddle transition?
For babies who are over 5 months and struggling with sleep, I have a class that can help conquer those rough nights. "The ABC's of Sleep" is an online sleep training class that helps babies achieve 10-12 hour consolidated nights, wean night feedings, and enjoy restful naps too. Check it out HERE.