It is true that some babies do not prefer to be swaddled. If your baby seems distressed when safely sleep swaddled, by all means, you should loosen the swaddle or discontinue use. But if your infant does not prefer to be swaddled, it does not mean that it is unsafe for other parents to use. As good as it is, swaddling is not a ‘magic cure” and may not get “immediate results” (as in, you swaddle a crying baby and they stop crying instantly). Swaddling for sleep should be performed on a calm baby. Can you swaddle a slightly upset baby to help them calm down once you know respond to being swaddled? Yes! But if your baby is crying excessively (or you would describe them as “fussy”B) you should soothe them until they are more relaxed before you swaddle. (Soothing can include holding, talking, or singing to them, make a “shhh” sound or humming while holding them close, allowing them to suck, holding them side-laying, and swinging them gently.)

While newborn preference can influence a family’s use of swaddling, parental preference should never be the top factor deciding not to swaddle. Many parents use of swaddling is not about preference, it is about what is safe for babies and helpful to families. I have found that many parents who do not prefer swaddling came to that conclusion after getting discouraged from a lack of immediate results or after only trying swaddling a few times. This does not mean that your baby does not prefer it, it just means they are learning along with you! Most babies do prefer swaddling and respond well to the technique. While we want to encourage our babies to explore, we have to remember that they genuinely need the security of the womb. My hope for future swaddling debates is that they steer away from parental preference and focus on best practice. Preferences aside, what is paramount is the safety of families. We know that safe swaddling is the best way to minimize startling in transitional sleep phases and encourage the most restful sleep for infants, but what is often forgotten are real dangers of not swaddling.

Risks of Not Swaddling

Mothers who choose not to swaddle are actually at higher risk for post-partum depression and their babies are at higher risk for shaken baby syndrome or being left to cry-it-out. The trouble is that un-swaddled infants will sleep less soundly, and may also cry more in the first 3-4 months of life. Babies who cry more and sleep less are likely to be more “challenging” for caregivers, who will also likely be tired and cranky. This truly puts infants at higher risk. Research has found that excessive crying preceded incidents of child abuse in 80% of cases examined³⁰. Since swaddling is a tool for sleep, exhausted parents can easily become frustrated with infants who are “difficult” to settle or who cry excessively. This frustration obstructs bonding and can even cause parents to over-feed, which is a contributing factor to childhood obesity. Dr. Karp has also suggested that excessive crying in infants can interfere with breastfeeding and cause marital conflict. It seems pretty obvious that these risks should make parents realistically consider the benefits of swaddling.

Conclusion

            Swaddling is not a cure-all. Are there dangers to it? Of course. There are dangers to everything which has a margin for human error. But it is important to remember that all research which showed negative implications of swaddling examined maladaptive, incorrect variations of the practice which means the conclusions drawn from unsafe swaddling cannot be applied generally to safe swaddling methodologies. But if you look at the tradition longitudinally, swaddling has clear dominance as an effective tool in infant care. While it does not replace the nurturing arms of a responsive caregiver, extensive international research has confirmed that swaddling infants effectively addresses the startle reflex, helping babies attain more restful sleep. The long history and cultural applicability of swaddling also strongly suggests that swaddling helps keep babies warm and calm while they transition to life outside of the womb. When it is used incorrectly, it can indeed be an unsafe practice. But the cases of improper usage do not make all swaddling a lost cause. It is possible to swaddle safely with appropriate information and education. Swaddling is a reliable way to help babies get the most restful sleep and empowers families with an effective tool for parenting. I hope this helps to put all the myths and misinformation to bed, once and for all, and I trust this post encourages you to recognize the real dangers of swaddling and make a truly informed choice about keeping the practice at the forefront of infant care traditions.

Sheena M. Hill is a single mom who understands the stresses of balancing parenthood with all the other responsibilities in life.  She is an educator who specializes in parenting and family life.  Its easy to be an expert, but in order to truly serve families, you must also be an excellent teacher who can respond to the complex needs of adult learners. She developed the Purposeful Parenting Philosophy, which helps parents make the most of parenthood. Read more at ParentingWorks.org.

References

¹ Lipton EL, Steinschneider A, Richmond JB. (1965). Swaddling, a child care practice: Historical, cultural and   experimental observations. Pediatrics, 35: 521– 567.

³⁰ B.E. van Sleuwen, M.P. L’Hoir,  A.C. Engelberts, W.B. Busschers, P. Westers, M.A. Blom, T.W.J. Schulpen, W. Kuis, (2006). Comparison of behavior modification with and without swaddling as interventions for excessive crying. The Journal of Pediatrics, Volume 149, Issue 4, Pages 512–517.e2

³¹ Weston J. The pathology of child abuse. In: Helfer R, Kempe C, eds. The Battered Child. Chicago, IL: University of Chicago Press; 1968

The post Swaddling: Putting all the Myths to Bed (Section 3) appeared first on I Am Not the Babysitter.

This guest was written by Sheena Hill. We encourage mothers to express themselves and make their own educated choices. The views and opinions expressed here may or may not be the opinions of “I Am Not the Babysitter”. 

Section I

Section II

Section III

What is the point of swaddling?

Swaddling is the ancient art of wrapping a baby snugly with a blanket to restrict involuntary movement. Swaddling techniques vary from European-based wrapping in bands to a South American method of tightly folding blankets or sheets around the child. Though swaddling variations persist–depending on the period in history, culture and the perceived needs to be addressed–the common thread of the practice is to achieve infant motor restraint. Methodology aside, swaddling was consistently used to keep infants warm^{1, 11-14}, to immobilize them and to help prepare their bodies for the lives that awaited them. Historically, swaddling has been used in most societies in northern, temperate and subarctic regions, including those in Asia, South America, and the Mediterranean as well as throughout the Middle East. For societies in Africa and other humid or high temperature locations, the traditional practice of wearing children in a sling (often nearly naked) remains a reputable alternative to swaddling¹⁰. In other words, evidence for swaddling throughout history and cultures is pervasive.

Cultural and Historical Use of Swaddling:

Swaddling was discussed in the Bible, both in Ezekiel and Luke, the latter specifically identified swaddling as a component of the care for baby Jesus. Swaddling was likely a staple of infant care in the ancient world, a theory supported with art and literature, which provide countless examples of swaddling by Greeks, Romans, Jews and Christians alike (swaddling and infant salting–in Greek and Roman style–was intended to prepare the skin for the harsh environment and this practice served as the model of infant care for more than 1,500 years). The countless artistic depictions throughout history confirm its widespread use and acceptability. Variations on swaddling included swaddling materials, start time, duration and the overall intention¹.

One of the key variations I discovered in my research for this post is the purpose of swaddling across cultures and history. While some believed swaddling was necessary because infants were weak and would otherwise fall apart, others viewed the practice as a method of creating cooperative children or preparing them for the restrictions and suffering of life. By many cultures at various points in history, swaddling was even considered a means to prevent masturbation in infants or to prevent babies from groping their mother’s breasts while nursing. For most cultures throughout history, swaddling was used as a general technique for quieting and containing infants¹. In the late 1770’s, doctors advised mothers to swaddle on alternating sides so that infants would grow straight. In some cultures, swaddling kept infants occupied while mothers worked[1], either domestically or outside the home. Culture and historical context aside, for most parents who have employed the technique, swaddling was intended to help babies retain warmth and comfort.

Swaddling continued through the Middle Ages and early modern period. However, once medical professionals lost confidence in the ability of mothers to swaddle correctly¹, they began to warn against the practice. It initially came into question late in the eighteenth century after physicians, such as William Cadogan, claimed swaddling was harmful to children and advocated for social reform in England and France. During this time, several cases of infants being swaddled too tightly and suffering circulatory restrictions from being worn on a back board while swaddled created hysteria. Convinced that no mother was capable of understanding the safe way to swaddle, doctors began to strongly advise against swaddling¹. Swaddling began to disappear more widely in Europe in the era of industrialization, as it became viewed as a “primitive” practice, used by rural populations (much like breastfeeding is promoted as a primitive or impoverished infant care choice). In 20th century Europe, swaddling was seen as a practice which denoted inferior social status. However, swaddling has persisted into the twenty-first century, particularly in Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Many mothers from South and North America rely on swaddling to pacifying the infant and preventing his waking himself by sudden movements¹. Even in societies where swaddling traditions were nearly lost, the custom has seen recent resurgence in popularity, due to its effectiveness at soothing infants^{15, 16}. For example, in the Netherlands over the past decade, swaddling has made a prominent comeback, which is a frequently recommended intervention due to its dependability in calming crying babies¹⁸.

Now, I hope that seeing swaddling through the lens of culture and history can help you identify the roots of the anti-swaddling standpoint.  From this perspective, it is clear that swaddling has been extensively used across the planet and for a variety of reasons throughout most of history. The only reasons it initially received criticism was for signifying lower social status and a fear that parents would not be competent to swaddle in the safest manner. These are not good reasons to direct parents away from a respected and effective practice! As a car seat technician, I am aware that misuse rates are currently over 75% nationwide, which means that most kids on the road right now are not as safe as you think they are. Yet, I don’t instruct parents to stop using car seats, simply because they are not using them correctly! Instead, I focus on education campaigns to help parents learn the importance of safety; swaddling belongs in this category. Rather than make a decree that swaddling is unsafe, let’s ensure that people know how to swaddle safely. Furthermore, I imagine that you are as outraged as I am that Nestle and formula companies make new mothers believe that breastfeeding is for ‘poor people’ or would fail their children in some other obscure way. Swaddling belongs in this category. Women are told that swaddling is for uneducated mothers¹ so they don’t try it.  Please don’t allow swaddling be used as one more tool in the indoctrination of fear-based parenting, which insists on amnesia and abandonment of what has evolutionarily worked for parents for the duration of our species.

Swaddling has really gotten an unfair rap as a top safety hazard; what makes it worse is that its trashy reputation is allegedly backed by research. In fact, research conducted over more than 100 years has shown quite positive results regarding the benefits of swaddling. I want to examine some of the basic research on the topic and then specifically address the three main safety concerns that people reference when they claim swaddling is unsafe: hip dysplasia, SIDS and breastfeeding.

Research

Given its consistent impact on infant care, a decent amount of research on swaddling exists. Initial research on swaddling occurred in the late 1800’s. Interestingly, some of the early research on swaddling actually focused on swaddling for animals and found results applicable to human infants as well. In the early 20^th century, researchers made correlations between immobilization and effective sleep induction in a variety of species. They also asserted that these animals seemed to adapt easily to motor restriction and subsequently had an easier time going to sleep without restraint in future incidents^{22, 23}.

Infants were a popular research interest during the first half of the 20^th century, with research conducted on swaddling and related topics with relative consistency from the 1920’s through the 1960’s and again in the past twenty years. Several full scale empirical studies of swaddling practices have been conducted, as well as a systematic study, which reviewed 82 sources which examined swaddling. Evidence supports that it increases sleep and sleep efficiency¹⁹, reduces levels of motor activity¹ and spontaneous waking⁴ and allows for fewer startles when compared directly to responses from non-swaddled infants. Moreover, research indicates that there was no decrease in a swaddled baby’s capacity to respond to stimulation and continue to interact with their environments^{1, 10}. Through studying a variety of swaddling forms and cultures, researchers discovered that the mere process of restraining the infant produced a tranquil, cooperative state; finding that almost all the children studied responded well and benefited greatly from being swaddled. Recent research asserts that swaddling also addresses excessive crying and, in response to pain, has a similar calming effect as a pacifier ²⁰. Swaddling appears to have immediate results in comforting distressed babies, even before they struggle to the point of clear muscular fatigue. In other words, simply the act of being swaddled comforts them¹. In a randomized study of Mongolian babies, there was no evidence that swaddling impacted mental and psychomotor development²¹. Clearly, descriptive and controlled studies confirm that swaddling enhances sleep continuity and can be trusted to calms babies, who must adjust to the chaotic world beyond the womb.

Now that we have looked at some of the highlights from the prominent research on swaddling, I want to take the time to refute each of the common misconceptions regarding research on specific dangers of swaddling. The three most commonly cited dangers of swaddling include causing hip dysplasia, increased SIDS risk, and interferes with breastfeeding.

Swaddling and Hip Dysplasia (DDH))

First, let’s talk about hip dysplasia (DDH). It is true that swaddling too tightly in the hips and legs can cause hip problems since the hips are still growing and tight restriction limits the natural movement of hips in their sockets. However, too tight swaddling includes swaddling so tightly that all movement is prohibited for the infant or placing baby’s legs straight down. The hysteria over swaddling leading to hip dysplasia is so odd to me because hip dysplasia is actually a relatively common occurrence in newborns, since stronger indicators of developing DDH include genetics and breech delivery. Furthermore, the real parenting practice which puts infants at higher risk for DDH is unsafe baby-wearing (like using ‘crotch dangler’ carriers, wearing baby facing outward, or wearing babies so that their legs hang straight down–instead of going out to the sides at the hips and only hanging down from the knees, as is natural and safest for all children!). To prevent swaddling-related hip dysplasia, swaddle so that there is enough room at the midsection and the bottom of the blanket so that baby can bend their legs up and out from their body. Swaddling is intended to limit involuntary movement, not completely restrict the child^24-26.

Swaddling and SIDS

Yes, swaddling does help babies stay warm, because their body heat is contained. For this reason, swaddling can put an infant at a higher risk of overheating. This concern can be easily addressed by removing a layer (or all) of the baby’s clothing while swaddling and placing a fan in the room where they sleep. It’s also true that placing a swaddled baby in the prone position (on their belly) to sleep puts them at direct risk for suffocation because they are unable to roll over or push themselves up. Since this reason is also a general risk factor for SIDS, it is imperative that infants are placed on their backs to sleep (whether they are swaddled or not). However, several studies demonstrate that safe swaddling actually reduces the risk of SIDS and encourages parents to place babies to sleep on their backs. Researchers conclude that the advantages of swaddling outweigh any risks as long as the infants are placed in the supine position for sleeping²⁷.  The best way to utilize swaddling while continuing to minimize SIDS risk is to always keep baby’s head and face exposed (yes, this needs to be stated, as this was one of the risk factors the anti-swaddling camp has mentioned), place babies to sleep on their backs and cease swaddling as soon as an infant can roll over. Additionally, refrain from overdressing babies and remember that a swaddled baby does not need any extra blankets. Furthermore, swaddling in a way which maintains access to the hands allows infants to suck as needed, which ensures accessible breathing and is an added SIDS reduction faction.

Swaddling and Breastfeeding

Though only one study specifically examined the effect of swaddling on breastfeeding, it has been cited widely as a major reason why swaddling should be reconsidered and used minimally. The research suggests that swaddling immediately after birth impedes breastfeeding. This should not be surprising, because we know that skin-to-skin contact following birth is crucial to nursing.  Of course babies should not be swaddled immediately after birth! As standard practice, newborns should always be placed on their mother—either at her breast or simply skin to skin–within 1 hour of birth and if she is not available, dad should employ kangaroo care. No reputable research suggests that swaddling interferes with breastfeeding at any other time during a baby’s life^{10, 29}.

Indeed, amidst all the positive research on swaddling, there are studies that call attention to potential risk factors as well as research which is flawed or inconclusive. Some research has indicated that swaddling constricts breathing when it’s too tight. Ok, I think it’s clear: don’t swaddle too tightly! There is certainly room for more empirical studies which can examine things absolutely, providing us with more information or definitive answers. For the time being, however, I hope that the wealth of research (along with the historical and cultural significance) can put your mind at ease regarding the incendiary claims of anti-swaddlers. While, of course I do not believe people in this camp are ill-intentioned (because we all care about the safety of babies), I do feel strongly that they are misinformed, having grossly misinterpreted the research presented. I encourage you to look at the original sources, look at the variation among the research and trust the fact that it has been a traditional practice for literally centuries. But, I don’t want you to make your final conclusions just yet. Though it may seem like I could not possibly say anything else about swaddling, I want to address swaddling best practice and parental preference.

Sheena M. Hill is a single mom who understands the stresses of balancing parenthood with all the other responsibilities in life.  She is an educator who specializes in parenting and family life.  Its easy to be an expert, but in order to truly serve families, you must also be an excellent teacher who can respond to the complex needs of adult learners. She developed the Purposeful Parenting Philosophy, which helps parents make the most of parenthood. Read more at ParentingWorks.org.

References

¹ Lipton EL, Steinschneider A, Richmond JB. (1965). Swaddling, a child care practice: Historical, cultural and   experimental observations. Pediatrics, 35: 521– 567.

¹⁰ van Sleuwen, BE, Engelberts, AC, Boere-Boonekamp, MM, Kuis, W,  Schulpen, TWJ, L’Hoir, MP. Swaddling: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics, 120: 1097-1106.

11 Tsogt B, Maniseki-Holland S, Pollock J, Blair P, Fleming P. Can traditional care influence thermoregulation? A prospective controlled study of the effects of swaddling on infants’ thermal balance in a Mongolian winter. Presented at: 9th SIDS Conference; June 1–4,2006; Yokohama, Japan

12 Li Y, Liu J, Liu F, Guo G, Anme T, Ushijima H. Maternal child-rearing behaviors and correlates in rural minority areas of Yunnan, China. J Dev Behav Pediatr.2000;21 :114– 122

13 Tronick EZ, Thomas RB, Daltabuit M. The Quechua Manta Pouch: a caretaking practice for buffering the Peruvian infant against the multiple stressors of high altitude. Child Dev.1994;65 :1005– 1013

14 Manaseki S. Mongolia: a health system in transition. BMJ.1993;307:1609– 1611

15 Karp H. The Happiest Baby on the Block. London, United Kingdom: Penguin Group; 2002

16 Blom MA. Crying and Restlessness in Babies: A Parent’s Guide to Natural Sleeping. Edinburgh, Scotland: Floris; 2005

17 Masataka, N. (1996). On the function of swaddling as traditional infant-care practiced by Native South Americans. Shinrigaku Kenkyu, Volume 67, Issue 4, Pages 285-291. Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Kanrin, Inuyama 484, Japan

18 van Schaijk M, Lanting CI, van Wouwe JP, Engelberts AC, L’Hoir MP. (2006). Survey risk factors for cot death, 2002–2003 [in Dutch]. In: Van Schaijk M, Lanting CI, van Wouwe JP, Engelberts AC, L’Hoir MP, eds. TNO: Quality of Life. Leiden, Netherlands

19 Meyer, L. E. and Erler, T. (2011). Swaddling: A traditional care method rediscovered. World Journal of Pediatrics, Volume 7, Issue 2, May 2011, Pages 155-160

20 Ohgi S, Akiyama T, Arisawa K, Shigermori K. Randomised controlled trial of swaddling versus massage in the management of excessive crying in infants with cerebral injuries. Arch Dis Child.2004;89 :212– 216

21 Semira Manaseki-Holland,  Elizabeth Spier, Bayasgalantai Bavuusuren, Tsogzolma Bayandorj, Susan Sprachman, Tom Marshall (2010). Effects of Traditional Swaddling on Development: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Pediatrics, 26: 1485-1492.

22 Sidis, B.: An experimental study of sleep. J. Abnorni. Psvchol., 3: 1, 63, 1908.

23. Coriat, I. H. : The nature of sleep. J. Abnorm. Psychol., 6:329, 1912.

24 http://www.hipdysplasia.org/developmental-dysplasia-of-the-hip/hip-healthy-swaddling/

25 http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/tc/developmental-dysplasia-of-the-hip-topic-overview

26 http://www.hipdysplasia.org/developmental-dysplasia-of-the-hip/prevention/baby-carriers-seats-and-other-equipment/

27. Jobe, A. H (2009). Swaddling and SIDS – not simple. The Journal of Pediatrics. October 2009  Volume 155 Number 4

28. Karp H. The ‘fourth trimester’: a framework and strategy for understanding and

resolving colic. Contemp Pediatr 2004;21:94.

29 Bystrova K, Matthiesen AS, Widström AM, et al. The effect of Russian maternity home routines on breastfeeding and neonatal weight loss with special reference to swaddling. Early Hum Dev.2007;83 :29– 39

The post Swaddling: Putting all the Myths to Bed (Section 2) appeared first on I Am Not the Babysitter.

This guest was written by Sheena Hill. We encourage mothers to express themselves and make their own educated choices. The views and opinions expressed here may or may not be the opinions of “I Am Not the Babysitter”. 

Section I

Section II

Section III

The purpose of this post is to clarify the vast amount of misinformation on swaddling which is currently circulating. Across cultures and throughout history, a wide variety of swaddling methods have occurred and its prominence highlights its relevance in infant care. The bottom line is that most infants do respond well to swaddling and it addresses a real need for them. If the campaign against breastfeeding infuriates you, the debate over swaddling should stir an equal degree of frustration, since swaddling is unfairly under attack. Today, pervasive myths, misinformation and misinterpretation of research have left parents and health care providers confused about what constitutes safe swaddling practices, leaving people wondering if swaddling should be used at all. I want to address the cultural and historical evidence, pivotal research and the top three specific dangers related to swaddling. I also intend to discuss best practice in safe swaddling and my biggest pet peeve, projected preference. Since that could take awhile, let’s start with looking at how we got here.

The swaddling debate dates back to the 18^th century, and has experienced a resurgence due to a few unfortunate news-worthy incidents. Recently, swaddling in daycare centers has been deemed illegal in Minnesota due to the higher numbers of in-home daycares being established there.  Though this preventive measure appears unwarranted, I was even more shocked when I read the Minnesota law, which officially states that blankets should not be used in any way for sleeping, including swaddling. Legislation makes it illegal to use any blanket during sleep in all daycare facilities, however, it also recommends swaddling to calm a child until age two. Despite the fact that swaddling is mentioned specifically, it appears to be included in the no-blanket law by default. Given that swaddling is advised for use on children so old, the policy makers clearly do not understand what swaddling is or how it should be used.

Additionally, the practice is now strongly discouraged in California and Pennsylvania, after experienced childcare workers in California swaddled babies older than 6 months so tightly that it caused harm to the children and was considered “abusive’. In this case, seven infants between the ages of 7 and 11 months old were tightly swaddled during nap time in an effort to completely immobilize the children. Worse yet, the owners of the home daycare allegedly covered the children’s faces in order to prevent crying. By all accounts, the police at the scene, the police spokesperson and the public can all agree that this is not a case about swaddling; it is an unmistakable case of abuse and neglect. There is no doubt that swaddling in both of these examples was misunderstood and misused.

I know that it can be confusing. Unsafe and incorrect swaddling can indeed create risk for young babies. However, there is nothing inherently unsafe about swaddling. Safe swaddling, used correctly and with the appropriate intentions, is the best way to address the Moro (startle) reflex in newborns. Safe swaddling can help infants achieve fewer startles, lowered heart rate and reduced motor activity1 which can lead to more total daytime sleep2 and more extended sleep periods overall. In essence, with decreased arousal3 and fewer spontaneous awakenings4 safe swaddling enables babies to sleep better, sleep longer and experience more sleep continuity. Furthermore, parents who swaddle are much more likely to place infants to sleep on their backs which is believed to be a major factor for SIDS risk reduction5.

It is easy to see why swaddling leads to more sleep6 in infants.  Early research in muscle relaxation demonstrated that it is a necessary requisite for sleep in children and adults7,8,9. Through their own continued movements, infants may prevent muscle relaxation by maintaining a state of alertness and responsivity10. If you have ever witnessed an infant startle themselves awake, you know that they can easily keep themselves from fully resting. So swaddling induces muscle relaxation while it minimizes startles; greater relaxation means better sleep.

In order for sleep to be restorative and fully refreshing–for all the reasons our bodies require sleep–it is the deep sleep which is most important. Many babies struggle to achieve this state of deep sleep when they startle themselves awake regularly. The benefits of deep sleep could use their own post; but it should be underscored that a consequence of self-stimulation is a reduction of the deepest stage of sleep. Without this, infants are not able to get the rest they require to grow and regulate their own bodies. Moreover, babies who do not get enough REM suffer from being poorly rested. Without restful sleep, babies are likely to be more fussy and irritable in their waking hours due to prolonged sleep deprivation (and possible mounting frustration over unmet needs). What’s more, parents of babies who don’t sleep “well” often find themselves more sleep deprived and stressed, often complaining that baby wakes after only a few minutes of sleep or that it takes a long time to finally get baby to sleep. (If you are thinking about co-sleeping as an option right about now, don’t worry, we will get there in a bit).

Sleep aside, Dr. Harvey Karp informed us that babies experience a 4^th trimester of neonatal development, in which newborns are particularly vulnerable to the external stimulation in their new lives. Considering the infant’s true physiological need for extra comfort and sensory recognition during the transition from womb to world, swaddling remains a valuable option to provide a baby with the stimulation and security they legitimately require. For this reason, it is crucial to remember that swaddling is only intended to simulate the comfort of the womb and should be only used in ways which provide (and not jeopardize) well-being.

The important things to remember about safe swaddling are:

• Swaddling is for sleep only. Babies should always be placed to sleep on their backs. A swaddled baby should never be placed on their belly to sleep.
• Always swaddle in a way which allows the infant access to their hands. This does not mean that the arms are free for newborns, but hands should be positioned near the top of the swaddling blanket so they can stick out and be accessed by the baby’s mouth.
• Don’t swaddle too tightly. Baby’s legs and hips should be able to move a little. Remember that swaddling should minimize movement, not restrict it completely.
• Do not use any extra blankets with swaddled babies. If they appear to be overheated, remove a layer of clothing or try swaddling baby naked.
• Stop swaddling once your baby can roll over (around 4-5 months)

Sheena M. Hill is a single mom who understands the stresses of balancing parenthood with all the other responsibilities in life.  She is an educator who specializes in parenting and family life.  Its easy to be an expert, but in order to truly serve families, you must also be an excellent teacher who can respond to the complex needs of adult learners. She developed the Purposeful Parenting Philosophy, which helps parents make the most of parenthood. Read more at ParentingWorks.org.

References

 1 Lipton EL, Steinschneider A, Richmond JB. (1965). Swaddling, a child care practice: historical, cultural and experimental observations. Pediatrics, 35: 521– 567.

2 Çağlayan S, Yaprak I, Seçkin E, Kansoy S, Aydinlioğlu H. (1991). A different approach to sleep problems of infancy: swaddling above the waist. Turk Pediatrics, 33: 117– 120.

3 Gerard CM, Harris KA, Thach BT. (2002). Spontaneous arousals in supine infants while swaddled and unswaddled during rapid eye movement and quiet sleep. Pediatrics, 6: 110.

4 Franco P, Seret N, van Hees JN, Scaillet S, Groswasser J, Kahn A. (2005). Influence of swaddling on sleep and arousal characteristics of healthy infants. Pediatrics, 115 :1307– 1311.

5 Gerard CM, Harris KA, Thach BT. (2002). Physiologic studies on swaddling: an ancient child care practice, which may promote the supine position for infant sleep.  Pediatrics, 141 :398– 404

6 Giacoman SL. (1971). Hunger and motor restraint on arousal and visual attention in the infant. Child Development, 42: 605– 614.

7,8,9Sidis, B. (1908). An experimental study of sleep. J. Abnorni. Psvchology, 3, 63.

Coriat, I. H. (1912). The nature of sleep. Abnormal Psychology, 6: 329.

Kleitman, N. (1939). Sleep and Wakefulness as alternating phases in the cycle of existence. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 40.

10 van Sleuwen, BE, Engelberts, AC, Boere-Boonekamp, MM, Kuis, W,  Schulpen, TWJ, L’Hoir, MP. Swaddling: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics, 120: 1097-1106.

The post Swaddling: Putting All the Myths to Bed appeared first on I Am Not the Babysitter.

Alternet reported that a Virginia father brought his three young children to Walmart and upon returning home had a police officer approach and alerted the father that there were concerns the children were not his (or not legally in his care). Why? The dad had a different skin tone than his daughters.

The mixed-race family then had to participate in questioning by the officer. The father insisted the children were indeed his, and then the police officer asked the oldest daughter to point out her parents.

The security guard who reported the ‘suspicious’ incident to the police blamed a customer who alerted Walmart security of what the person thought looked suspicious.

According to the mother of the girls:

‘”Well, the customer was concerned because they saw the children with [my] husband and he didn’t think that they fit. And I said, ‘What do you mean by they don’t fit?’ And I was trying to get her to say it. And she says, ‘Well, they just don’t match up.’”-source

I am a bit perplexed by the whole thing. I have two thoughts on why someone would even be remotely concerned with seeing a father with his mixed-race daughters:

1. Racism is an insidious part of daily life, and it exposes itself boldly in the most unexpected ways.

2. That is the most boring Walmart ever. Seriously, if a normal family gets that much attention for the melanin in their skin, could you imagine if the patrons of that particular Virginia Walmart went to any of the Walmarts that are frequently featured on “People of Walmart”?

Source

Oh and speaking of the People of Walmart, I have to say I understand why it is considered funny. There are definitely funny photos on there, but there are also bullying, shaming, and degrading photos and captions on there, as well. Ugh…:-(

Here is a  featured image from today:

Source

With this caption:

“Got multitasking? Geez! Better watch out, some accidental titty milk spray could short circuit that credit card machine.”

The comments section is surprisingly very pro-breastfeeding, and the picture is kind of awesome. Go mom! I remember doing this when Aram was in the Ergo carrier.

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I was a little concerned when I saw the ingredients in the organic store-bought beef jerky we occasionally buy for the boys, so I decided to try and make my own.

Here is our easy beef jerky recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 lbs round roast cut into ⅛-1/4 strips (but no larger)
• 1 garlic head, minced
• 1 chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon freshly sliced ginger
• 1 cup soy sauce
• ¾ cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground red pepper

1. Mix garlic, onion ginger, soy sauce, worcestershire sauce, salt, and ground pepper in a medium sized bowl.
2. Add meat strips to the marinade.
3. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 1-24 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 150 degrees.
5. Line bottom rack with foil.
6. Place strips of meat directly on the top oven rack, so drippings will be caught by bottom foil.
7. Let cook for 4-7 hours.
8. When cooked to desired consistency remove and let cool. 
9. Place in an airtight container.
10. Enjoy!

Oven Beef Jerky Recipe

 

Print

 

Ingredients

• 4 lbs round roast cut into ⅛-1/4 strips (but no larger)
• 1 garlic head, minced
• 1 chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon freshly sliced ginger
• 1 cup soy sauce
• ¾ cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground red pepper

Instructions

1. Mix garlic, onion ginger, soy sauce, worcestershire sauce, salt, and ground pepper in a medium sized bowl.
2. Add meat strips to the marinade.
3. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 1-24 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 150 degrees.
5. Line bottom rack with foil.
6. Place strips of meat directly on the top oven rack, so drippings will be caught by bottom foil.
7. Let cook for 4-7 hours.
8. When cooked to desired consistency remove and let cool.
9. Place in an airtight container.
10. Enjoy!

3.2.1230

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