Swaddling questions

TheNewFry

When we got home from the hospital, we were swaddling both babies. However, after a couple weeks we stopped swaddling as it seemed the babies hated it and would bust out of it in no time. So we haven't swaddled either baby since about 2 or3 weeks old.

Well now it seems the only thing that works at calming DS down when he is struggling to fall asleep for a nap is to be swaddled. So I am wondering if i should continue swaddling for naps and if i should start swaddling at bedtime so it will hopefully help him sleep more restfully at night too and go for longer stretches.

So I guess I am curious if...

1. You swaddle your babies, and if so, for how long did you (do you plan to) swaddle them?
2. Do you swaddle for both naps and nighttime?
3. Did you have trouble when you stopped swaddling.

I guess I am nervous that if I start up the swaddling again, that DS is going to become addicted to it and it will be a hard habit to break. And if it's recommended to stop swaddling at 3 or 4 months, then I don't know if it is worth starting it up again if it is just going to be a struggle to stop.

TIA ... and sorry for the rambling!

MrsMommyLo

TheNewFry:

1. You swaddle your babies, and if so, for how long did you (do you plan to) swaddle them?

With DS#1, he needed to attend swaddler anonymous.  He was swaddled all.the.time for the first 3-4 months.  He had colic/reflux and basically would scream if he wasn't swaddled.  We went cold turkey at about 4 months with him.  I really thought he was going to go to college and need a swaddle. 

The twins are a little bit different.  DD is swaddled for naps and night sleep.  She recently started breaking out on her own but it doesn't bother her.  She STTN 7:30pm-6:30am.  Her naps leave much to be desired but we are working on that.  I stopped swaddling DS about a month ago because I discovered he slept much better on his tummy.  (I know this is not recommended).  He slept on his tummy for naps and recently I moved him to his tummy at night.  He STTN immediately same as DD. 

2. Do you swaddle for both naps and nighttime?

For DD, yes I swaddle her at both naps and nighttime.  I also swaddled DS#1 for both naps and nighttime until about 4 months.

3. Did you have trouble when you stopped swaddling.

I don't remember it being a nightmare with DS#1 but it definitely was a transition.  He regressed in his sleeping but after a few days it was fine.  I think DD will just wean herself.  I feel she still needs to swaddle to fall asleep, she pretty much closes her eyes as soon as she is swaddled.  Whe she gives me signs on of not needing it, I will stop. 

GL with your swaddling!  I don't have any real advice since all of my kids were different in their swaddle habits.  My advice is follow their cues and see how it goes. 

!

monkski

I say if it works, do it. We'll stop swaddling when they don't want it anymore or when they start rolling over.  We currently swaddle when they nap and at night.

TheNewFry

Alright, we'll see how this goes...DS is swaddled up and in the crib. Fingers crossed for a good nights sleep for everyone! Thanks for your responses.

anyalee

1.  We swaddle.  I'm starting the process of weaning now.

2. We only swaddle at night.

3. We started last night with one arm out,  They had no problem with that.  We'll probably do that for a few more nights before we try both arm out.