Swaddling is an ancestral technique that involves wrapping a newborn in a blanket or swaddle to soothe, reassure and secure it.
The wall of the fabric that envelops him reminds him of his mother's belly, which helps him to fall asleep.
Swaddling, an ancestral technique
This technique has existed for a very long time and has evolved a lot thanks to scientific studies.
In the 18th century, babies were very tight and their movements extremely limited, in order to be able to carry them easily and keep them warm.
This technique has been challenged: babies were restrained for too long periods (sometimes more than 20 hours a day), with wet nappies, which prevented natural growth and proper development.
Swaddling disappeared for many years afterwards, especially in Europe. The use has always been common in Asia and America.
Today, swaddling is back in vogue. Indeed, many doctors and early childhood practitioners have demonstrated the benefits for babies, limiting the use to times of sleep and until the baby can roll over (about 3 to 4 months).
We can notably cite the pediatrician Harvey Karp, who never ceases to praise its merits. For him, the sensation of total envelopment calms the baby because he has the impression of perceiving the same things as in the womb.
Learn more about the benefits of swaddling
