Still, cosleeping is more prevalent than most people think. Parents often say that baby sleeps in his or her crib when, in reality, mom and baby sleep together at least part of the night. Ask your non-cosleeping friends. You’d be surprised how many actually do co-sleep without knowing (or admitting) it!

During their first three months of life, up to 70% of babies in Europe and America will have coslept with their parents one or more times.(5) (After that come the 4 month sleep regression and a lot of parents start co-sleeping at that time)

And why shouldn’t they?

Cosleeping with baby is the biological norm

Cosleeping with baby is culturally accepted in many non western societies today. And, of course, for most of human history, co-sleeping was the norm in all cultures.

And it makes sense: In hunter-gatherer societies, a newborn or baby sleeping away from mom is more prone to danger and has to cry to get mom’s attention, which could put the group at risk of predatory attack. On the other hand, a baby nestled close to mom can nurse without fully waking (and without fully waking mom either).

What exactly is co-sleeping with baby?

Co-sleeping is the act of a newborn, baby, or child sleeping close to one or both parents. While some people consider co-sleeping to mean that baby is within arm’s reach, others qualify it as parents and baby sleeping in the same room. This could mean baby has their own bed (or crib) in the same room, a bed adjacent to the parent’s bed, or sleeping in the same bed as one or both parents.

The benefits of cosleeping with baby

• Studies show that babies sleeping in the same room as parents have a lower risk of SIDS (1).
• Cosleeping can reduce nighttime separation anxiety.
• Co-sleeping can result in more sleep for baby and mom. Mom doesn’t have to wake fully, get out of bed, and go to another room for feedings or to comfort baby.
• Less stress and struggle at bedtime and through the night.
• Easier nighttime nursing, which helps maintain a good milk supply.
• Helps mom and baby sync their sleep patterns, which can make for easier feedings.
• Helps working moms get more time with baby.
• Can help a fussy child sleep at night.

Are there disadvantages to co-sleeping?

• Potentially less intimacy with partner (although, as cosleeping couples know, there are other places to have sex besides the bedroom).
• Less restful sleep. Some parents and some babies may sleep better alone.
• Many studies point to a connection between cosleeping and SIDS (2).

Is cosleeping with baby safe?

Although this research has been criticized, a 2014 study published in Pediatrics determined that nearly 74% of deaths in babies younger than 4 months occurred in a bed-sharing situation. The study looked at data from 8,207 infant deaths that occurred between 2004 and 2012. Among older infants (4 months to 1 year old), the rate was slightly lower at nearly 59 percent. (2)

Critics of this study point out that smoking, alcohol, and drug use were not taken into consideration, which can often be the culprit with baby fatalities. The lead researcher is hoping to conduct another large study that takes into account these issues. Although possibly flawed, the studies have raised awareness of the need to co-sleep safety.

• Some parents chose to use a co-sleeper bassinet, which keeps baby within “arm’s reach,” but also gives baby his own space.
• Other parents use co-sleeping separators to ensure that baby stays safe.

These contraptions can add additional assurance to parents.

Guidelines to cosleeping with baby safely

• Breastfed babies seem to be the safest sleeping next to mom (versus near dad or another child).
  • (Bottle-fed babies are safer in a separate sleeping space in the same room, since they sleep more deeply.) (4)
• Baby should be placed to sleep on his back, on a firm mattress with tight fitting sheets.
• Do not have loose pillows or blankets near the baby’s face.
• Leave no space between the mattress and the wall where baby could roll into and get stuck.
• Do not co-sleep or put baby to sleep on a couch!
• No stuffed animals or bumpers in the bed.
• Parents who smoke (and moms who smoked during pregnancy) should not bedshare.
• Parents who consume alcohol or drugs or are on medications that make them sleepy should not bedshare.
• Parents who sleep very deeply, are obese, sleepwalk, or are generally less aware of baby’s presence and location while sleeping should consider a sidecar arrangement.
• Babies under one year old should not sleep next to other children.
• Baby should not be swaddled so that they can alert a parent when they are too close.
• Baby should not be overdressed (overheating is a risk factor for SIDS).

Room sharing is recommended by AAP

While co-sleeping isn’t recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, room sharing is for the sake of baby’s health. (3)

In fact, the AAP just increased their recommendation for room sharing from the first 6 months of baby’s life to the first year of baby’s life due to the decreased risk of SIDS.

Room sharing is as simple as having baby’s bassinet or crib on the side of parent’s bed.

It isn’t all or nothing

I think a big stumbling block to co-sleeping is that some parents feel like they have to do it all the time including when baby is sleeping through the night. But just like moms will practice baby-led weaning and feed their babies purees, the same can be said for cosleeping with baby. For example, let’s say you had some drinks or were out late night with friends… that is not a good night to co-sleep. Or perhaps dad has strep throat or mom has the stomach flu. These might be instances when putting baby in her own sleeping space is better.

The point is you can be flexible with what works for your family.

Did Mama Natural co-sleep?

We used this co-sleeper side car with both kids when they were newborns. Later, our babies graduated to a crib in their own room.

There are two reasons why. The first is that I am a very deep sleeper. My family used to joke that nothing would wake me up. The second is that my husband Michael is a very light sleeper, and he struggles to stay asleep during the night. Given our sleep “baggage,” we found that cosleeping beyond that newborn stage didn’t work well for our family.

I do know many couples who LOVE co-sleeping and find that it has enriched their family life. Let’s hear from a few of them now…

Here’s what other natural mamas have to say about cosleeping with baby…

• My son is 9 months old and sleeps with me and my husband. It felt right for us from day one. He nurses on demand and it is such a wonderful experience. – Jessica H.
• I am a very particular sleeper so I cannot be comfortable with the baby in bed, even laying down to nurse I feared my breast would suffocate the baby constantly. Also, my husband is a heavy sleeper and as a fire fighter who has seen terrible things happen with co sleeping and babies sleeping on parents chests. – Traci F.
• I think it’s just normal and natural. It’s easier and also wonderful for that little being to know that mama is right there snuggling right up to you..what a comfort. – Nadia T.
• I cosleep with my kids until they make the decision to leave. Much like weaning. – Jennifer B.
• I have been co sleeping for almost 5 1/2 years (now with my 11 mo old) and I don’t love it. – Amelia R.
• As much as I was comfortable and even wanting to cosleep it just could not work for me and my daughter (5months old). Her and I are both terribly light sleepers. Every last fidget, kick, or whimper would keep me awake and her too. Once she started sleeping in her crib for naps and bedtime we both got more sleep. – Megan K.
• I do not co sleep. I can not sleep with my children in bed with me. Always have had a hard time sleeping. It’s just the way I am. – Sarah N.
• I love co-sleeping! It is natural! Why do we try so hard from birth to make our babies independent? They are not! They need our love and embrace. – Jessica B.
• We are bedsharing with our 2nd baby. He’s 16mos now. We bedshared with our daughter until she was 3. Then we would lay with her until she fell asleep. Now she has a bed in our room. – Megan Q.
• My daughter and I coslept her first three months, then I needed some space so I sidecarred the crib until six months. Then once she started moving she decided bedtime was playtime!! So she has been in a crib ever since. – Karina M.

How about you?

Did you practice co-sleeping? Please share your experience in the comments below!

Sources:

1. https://www.parenting.com/article/ask-dr-sears-co-sleeping-a-sids-danger
2. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/134/2/e406
3. https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/Pages/AAP-Expands-Guidelines-for-Infant-Sleep-Safety-and-SIDS-Risk-Reduction.aspx
4. https://cosleeping.nd.edu/frequently-asked-questions/#7
5. http://dro.dur.ac.uk/11131/

The post Cosleeping With Baby – Is It Safe? appeared first on Mama Natural.

Here’s a bit of good news, though: Eliminating the swaddle doesn’t have to be an abrupt transition. Let’s talk about when to stop swaddling baby, plus how to do so with grace.

When to Stop Swaddling Video

When my baby Faith started rolling over around four months, I knew it was time to transition her out of the swaddle. Check out this video I made to see how we stopped swaddling—without losing too much sleep—and find out which transitional swaddle worked best for us.

When to Stop Swaddling

I hate to break it to you, but those sweet days of swaddling are numbered. But how do you know exactly when to stop swaddling?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), you should stop swaddling at 8 weeks, or about two months.

To understand why the AAP makes this recommendation, it’s important to understand why you need to stop swaddling a baby in the first place. It’s important to stop swaddling once baby begins to roll over. It makes sense: When baby is swaddled, his or her arms are locked down. If they roll onto their belly while in this restricted position, it poses a suffocation risk, since baby may have a very difficult time rolling onto their back again.

If two months sounds a little young for a baby to be rolling over, remember that this is a conservative number that accounts for the fact that some babies learn to roll over earlier than others. There are plenty of doctors, including Harvey Karp, who say it’s safe to swaddle until baby is closer to 4 to 5 months old. Bottom line: When to stop swaddling really comes down to your baby and their individual development. Some babies roll over at two months; some don’t roll over until 4 or 5 months.

How to Stop Swaddling

Since baby is used to being snug as a bug, normal movement may wake them up when you first stop swaddling. Unfortunately, this can cause a bit of a sleep regression.

Slowly unswaddle

Slowly transition baby out of the traditional swaddle over the course of a week or so. Start by leaving just one arm out of the swaddle. Once baby gets used to this and is sleeping soundly (anywhere from a few nights to a few weeks), remove the other arm from the swaddle.

Try a transitional swaddle

You can also try a transitional swaddle. These products are specially designed for this tricky phase, and can work wonders. These “swaddles” keep babies a little bit more enclosed so they don’t scratch themselves and provide a little more weight to help prevent them from startling awake, but allow for a greater range of motion than a traditional swaddle. Here are some options:

Zipadee Zip

Zipadee-Zip – When to Stop Swaddling Baby (And How To Do It!) baby post by Mama Natural

This transitional swaddle has a starfish design that provides a large range of motion, but keeps all of babies limbs contained.

Nested Bean

Nested Bean – When to Stop Swaddling Baby (And How To Do It!) baby post by Mama Natural

This newer type of transitional swaddle in which the arms are free, but the center has a little weighted sack that provides a little added pressure to make baby feel more secure and comforted—it’s almost as if mom has her hand right on baby’s chest.

Sleep Suit by Crib Culture

Sleep Suit by Crib Culture – When to Stop Swaddling Baby (And How To Do It!) baby post by Mama Natural

This thing is almost like putting your baby in a snowsuit. Because it’s so puffy, it slows down baby’s movement. It also encourages back sleeping—a safer sleep position for young babies.

It’s important to note that overheating is a risk factor for SIDs, so it’s very important to choose a sleep suit with vents, like this one by Crib Culture. You should also check the temperature of your room with a small portable thermostat—a safe sleep temperature for babies is approximately 67-68 degrees.

Use a wearable blanket

Once baby has mastered sleeping with both arms out of the swaddle, they can sleep in their pajamas or in a wearable blanket like this one. Either way is perfectly fine, but some mamas and papas swear the wearable blanket helps their baby sleep. Do what works for you!

To find out when baby can use a blanket, check out this post.

How About You?

When did you stop swaddling? Do you have any special tips for making the transition easier? Share with us in the comments below.

The post When to Stop Swaddling Baby (And How to Do It!) appeared first on Mama Natural.

By Brittany Andrews

New parents lose 44 days of sleep a year, according to studies. It’s no wonder there’s so much talk about infant sleep—and what magical products can help.

Take the Snoo for example. Parents all over the country are paying upwards of $1,000 for this robotic bassinet, because they swear it helps baby (and their parents) get the shut-eye they so desperately need.

But does it work?

And—just as importantly—is it safe?

We’re going to break it all down for you here.

What is the Snoo Bassinet, and How Does It Work?

In short, the Snoo is a “responsive” bassinet.

When you put baby to bed, you swaddle them with the Snoo branded swaddle, then strap them into the bassinet via clips. While baby sleeps, the bassinet rocks and plays white noise.

Baby in the Snoo Bassinet

But here’s where things really get interesting, if baby cries or begins to stir, the bassinet senses this and responds by adjusting the level of the rocking and the white noise. The more agitated baby gets, the faster the bassinet rocks and the louder the white noise gets.

Why? The bassinet is meant to imitate the calming sensations of the womb. If you think about it, baby is used to being in a snug space (your belly), the loud ambient noises of your body, and constant movement from your activity.

Why We Hesitated to Use the Snoo

For our third child, we were excited about the prospect of trying out the Snoo. For our first two children, we went the traditional route, using normal swaddles and a standard bassinet.

But we were admittedly a little nervous about how much sleep we’d be getting with three children ages three and under in the house. We decided we needed all the help we could get maximizing our sleep.

We set up the Snoo before our due date, but we delayed using it in the early newborn days, because our baby was sleeping 16-plus hours a day in the hospital, swaddled and in the hospital bassinet. That wasn’t something we wanted to mess with!

Plus, We Wondered: Is it Safe for Baby to Move All Night Long?

I have to admit: This was a significant part of our hesitation in using the Snoo. As “experienced” parents, we were very surprised—and frankly, concerned—to learn that the Snoo gently rocks the baby and generates white noise at all times (even if the baby isn’t fussy or awake!).

We wondered if this could be harmful to our baby or if this could create a dependency on the bassinet. Would the Snoo make our lives easier now, but harder later when it came time to wean the baby from it?

We eventually received a Dr. Karp e-mail on the subject that eased our concerns. It described the weaning process, plus provided more information about transitioning to a standard crib. When we did some more digging, we also discovered the Snoo’s website has more information about the safety related to the movement. It says:

“Its highest level—and all levels—are perfectly safe. At the jiggly-est speed, SNOO’s platform only moves ¼ inch back and forth.”

This was all very helpful and, ultimately, made us take the plunge, but it would have been nice to have all of that material upfront. If there’s one thing new parents don’t have, it’s time to dig.

And What About EMFs?

The bottom line is that any wirelessly connected device—whether a smart bassinet or a video baby monitor—emits EMFs. Still, many companies that manufacture these devices never mention any of the potential dangers associated with that.

The Snoo is a bit different. The company specifically addressed this issue during the manufacturing process: The Snoo has a special metal shield that the company says blocks 99.9% of WiFi radiation. They also say the bassinet has been tested with three independent labs to ensure the accuracy of this claim.

So Does the Snoo Actually Work? My Honest Review

But as our newborn came out of those hazy first few weeks, we started to get less and less sleep. Equipped with more information about the product’s safety, we decided it was time to give it a try. Here’s what we thought:

The Pros of the Snoo

Sleep, sweet sleep!

Of course, you can’t expect to get a full night’s sleep right away. A newborn still needs to be fed every couple of hours! But we did get more sleep than we would have otherwise.

Before using the Snoo, before or after nighttime nursing sessions, my husband would diaper, swaddle, and rock the baby back to sleep before placing him in the bassinet. A big plus of the Snoo was cutting down the time that was needed to put the baby back to sleep following a nighttime feed. With the Snoo, the rocking and white noise “stepped in” for Dad in these instances, and helped calm and reset (a now well fed baby!) back to sleep, allowing mom and dad to get back to sleep faster after each night time feed, in the first month or so. Basically, post feed, all dad needed to do was swaddle, burp, and clip the baby into the Snoo.

And, over time, we’ve had some nice “longer” stretches of six to eight hours using the Snoo.

Setup is simple

I was glad to discover that setup was really a breeze. You simply snap the legs on and plug the bassinet in. You really can’t get any easier than that!

I will note, though, the bassinet is a bit heavy. I wouldn’t recommend a pregnant woman lift it alone.

Cons of the Snoo

The benefits aren’t immediate

From everything we’ve heard, we expected instant benefits with such a young baby, but we found it takes some time for the baby to get used to the Snoo (through naps and night sleep).

At first, we found ourselves frustrated that the Snoo would be in full on “womb/heartbeat,” with the highest white noise escalation and rocking, but not calming our screaming baby.

I could see some people abandoning ship at this point, with the assumption that the product simply doesn’t work for their baby. But, with a little bit of time and patience, we found that our baby took to it very well.

Now, it very rare that the Snoo “intervenes” to its highest levels, but at first, some encouragement from the Snoo app or Dr. Harvey Karp emails would have been helpful.

We’re still nervous about weaning…

We are still using the Snoo, so we can’t speak to the weaning process just yet. But it’s something I’m still really worried about. Despite the product’s dedicated weaning function, I still worry that our son will be addicted to the movement and only be able to sleep with movement.

Note: We will update this section once we actually dive into the weaning process for all you curious mamas out there! 

The app isn’t intuitive

Given the technical nature of the product, I was really surprised by how poorly the app functions. The default start time for each sleep log is 7 AM, but an evening start would make much more sense. Further, you can’t click on a stretch of sleep to see more details, such as how long the sleep was, when/if the Snoo had to intervene, at what time it had to intervene, etc.

The swaddle sizing seems off

All of the product literature explains how vital it is to have your baby in the correct swaddle size for safety reasons. But the medium swaddle spans a wide weight range, which makes it a little tricky to get the right fit. Though our son is just about the right weight, the velcro chest strap— even at its tightest possible fit—is too loose and he’s able to get his arms free.

Overall, we have a love-hate relationship with the Snoo…

The Snoo is very helpful in the early months. I firmly believe we got more sleep than we would have otherwise. We’ve been using it for nearly three months and plan to do so through the weaning process when we transfer our son to a standard crib. And I do recommend it to other new parents.

But, as I mentioned, we do have fears about the weaning process and there’s part of me that can’t wait to say goodbye to the Snoo.

How Much Does the Snoo Cost

Despite the wonders of the Snoo, it is a financial commitment.

If you purchase the Snoo outright, it costs $1,295.

They do occasionally have sales. At the time of publish, the Snoo was on sale for 25% off, which takes the cost down to just over $900. While this is a huge discount, it is still a definite luxury product.

Worried About Cost? Here’s Another Option

The rental program is a great option

In 2018, the company started a new rental program to help make the bassinet a little more attainable for the masses.

For $112 per month (or about $3.70 per day), you can rent the Snoo on a monthly basis.

This is what we did—and we wouldn’t do it any other way if we had to do it all over again. Here’s why:

Everything is like new

Though it might seem weird to rent such an intimate item for your baby, I was stunned to find the product looked brand new when it arrived. I did some digging, and found out that the Snoo gets some serious cleaning and sanitization between customers.

• First, it’s vacuumed using a high-powered vacuum to remove any fine dust or small particles.
• Then, it’s sanitized using baby-safe, hospital-approved products (chosen for nurseries and newborn intensive care units).
• And, finally, the inner and outer mesh is steamed using ultra-hot steam.

Also, the soft goods—the mattress, the mattress cover, the fitted sheet, and the swaddles—are all 100 percent new for each person.

It’s ideal for small-space living

I love this option, because I don’t have to find a place to store a bulky bassinet. Once baby transitions to a regular crib, we simply ship the Snoo back.

If we decide to have another baby, we’ll simply rent another Snoo!

The one downside: shipping is kind of a pain

Snoo is incredibly particular about how the product is shipped. It makes sense, given how valuable each bassinet is, but it makes the whole shipping process a little stressful.

• First, the box is incredibly heavy. I wouldn’t recommend any pregnant woman try to wrangle it herself.
• Second, the Snoo requires you keep the original box the product came in for return shipping. This sort of counteracts that whole “good for small spaces” thing, since you have to store a giant box.

They do provide detailed instructions for collapsing the box, but there are still a lot of parts to hold on to. And, if you lose any of the original packaging, it costs about $50 to replace it.

The company also has videos that show you how to repackage the Snoo for shipping when you’re ready to send it back, but again, it’s still a little tricky. And the company is very firm about reminding you that you’re responsible for any damages during shipping if you package it incorrectly or use another box to package the bassinet for shipping.

Overall, I found this process to be time-consuming and a little stressful. I really wanted to do it right, as I didn’t want to be on the hook for a nearly $1,300 bassinet!

Bottom Line

I would—and already have—recommend the Snoo to other parents. It’s a really great technological advance that certainly can help sleep-deprived parents get a little bit more rest.

But is it perfect? Definitely not!

If you’re going to give the Snoo a try, I highly recommend the rental program. It’s a great way to test it out. You can find out if you’re comfortable with it and if your baby will respond to it without having to spend the full ticket price.

The post Snoo Review: Is It Really Worth It? And Is It Safe? appeared first on Mama Natural.

In this post, we’ll cover:

What is the Witching Hour?

The witching hour is a period of time (usually between late afternoon until just before a newborn’s bedtime) when baby cries more, is fussier than normal, and requires more soothing and feeding. Many breastfed babies will even cluster feed during this time.

What causes the witching hour?

Experts aren’t really sure why this happens, but there are several theories:

• Dip in milk production: Mama’s prolactin levels take a little dip at the end of the day, which can make some babies fussier at the breast as they try to get more milk.
• Overstimulation: A long or busy day can leave baby overstimulated and, as a result, fussy.
• Exhaustion: Just like an overtired toddler seems full of intense energy, an overtired baby might just be fussy as he gets ready for a long stretch of sleep.

What Time is the Witching Hour?

Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer. The witching hour isn’t just “one hour” as the name implies; it’s more like the “witching hours.” The witching hour can vary from baby to baby, but it usually begins around 3-4 p.m. and lasts through 10-11 pm.

How Long Does the Witching Hour Last?

The witching hour often begins when a baby is around two to three weeks old, and usually peaks when baby is around six to eight weeks old. Thankfully, it’s usually just a phase—most babies start to outgrow the witching hour around three months.

How to Get Through the Witching Hour

If you’re in the thick of the witching hour, it’s likely that you have one questions running through your mind: “How will I get through this?!” The good news is there are many strategies and coping mechanisms to make it through the witching hour. Try these tips the next time baby won’t stop fussing:

Offer the breast/cluster feed

If you suspect baby is fussy because of the natural dip in prolactin during the afternoon, then cluster feeding may be a good option for you. Cluster feeding not only stimulates more milk production, but it also gives your baby the chance to receive the nutrients he needs and the comfort/closeness that he wants.

Try babywearing

Babywearing can offer many benefits to a fussy baby: closeness to mama or papa, soothing rocking motion, and a warm, safe place to nap. If your baby is overstimulated, it’s a good idea to avoid forward-facing carriers, as this can continue to overstimulate your baby.

Do skin-to-skin

According to a study published in The International Breastfeeding Journal, skin-to-skin has several benefits including: reduced crying, improved mother-baby bond, and stabilized vitals for baby. (source) During skin-to-skin, the body naturally releases stress-reducing hormones and as a result, baby’s vitals (i.e. temperature, breathing rate, heart rate) stabilize. It can literally calm your baby from the inside out. And as a bonus, this study suggests skin-to-skin contact has lasting benefits—even twenty years later!

Try baby massage

Even babies can benefit from the occasional massage. In fact, one study suggests infant massage is as effective as vibrating chairs in terms of successfully calming a colicky baby. What’s more, additional research found that baby massage lowers levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and stimulates melatonin production, helping babies fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Limit stimulation

Reduce household stimuli by dimming the lights, turning off external noises (e.g. TVs, etc.), and creating a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. You can even play soft music—try classical music, lullabies, or cello covers of pop songs. This not only help your baby unwind during the witching hour, but also helps get baby into a solid bedtime routine.

Draw a warm bath

Anecdotally, many mamas find that a warm bath is the perfect antidote for fussiness, and research backs this up. According to a study published in Early Human Development, a warm bath (especially with lavender essential oils) can reduce crying, promote more restful sleep, and calm down baby. (Source) Some researchers believe that human touch and interaction is part of what makes a bath so relaxing for a baby.

Go for a walk

Have you noticed that many baby rockers or bouncy seats have the option to play nature sounds? There is a very good reason for this: Nature sounds can actually calm a person. (source) But walking through nature is even more effective. Place your baby in a baby carrier and take a stroll around the block. Your baby will benefit from human touch, feeling your warmth, and listening to the sounds of nature.

Rock baby

In the womb, babies experience a lot of movement that, according to Dr. Harvey Karp, trigger a reflex that helps keep them relaxed. Even after birth, some babies simply can’t sleep without that same movement.

You can mimic this movement by:

• rocking baby in a glider,
• gently bouncing them on a medicine ball,
• walking with baby or gently bouncing them up and down in a baby carrier,
• using chairs, swings, and even bassinets that mimic natural movement.

Play white noise

If baby’s witching hour is triggered by overexertion or exhaustion, a white noise machine may help. According to a study published in Archives of Disease in Childhood, 80 percent of babies who listen to a white noise machine fall asleep within five minutes. (source). Why does this help? According to pediatrician Dr. Harry Karp, this activates the calming instinct.

But it’s important to note that a white noise machine can further disrupt some babies, especially when they’re already upset. In these cases, the “shhh” sound may be more soothing. You can use your own voice, a Baby Shusher, the Baby Shushing app, or the sound of a hairdryer on loop. If using an app or a YouTube video, be sure to put your phone on airplane mode to limit EMF exposure.

How to Take Care of Yourself During the Witching Hour

Even though calming your baby during the witching hour is priority, it’s also important to take care of yourself. Taking care of yourself is not only good for your own mental health, but it also allows you to be a better source of calmness for baby. In fact, studies say that mothers of highly irritable infants are more prone to depressive symptoms that can lead to the baby blues or postpartum depression.

Try these tips to take care of yourself when the going gets tough:

Get help

If the witching hour affects your ability to make dinner or take care of your other children, ask for help. Whether you need assistance around the house or a hand getting dinner on the table, reach out to your partner, a friend, or another family member.

Use nipple cream

Cluster feeding may calm your baby when the witching hour strikes, but don’t let your breasts take one for the team. Treat nipples with a DIY balm after each nursing session to prevent irritation and cracking. You can also use soothing Booby Tubes if needed.

Take a magnesium supplement for stress

Magnesium is known for combating muscle cramps, but did you know that magnesium also helps reduce stress and promote feelings of calm and relaxation? (source) If you think you might be low in magnesium, ask your healthcare practitioner if a magnesium supplement is right for you.

Support a positive mood

Don’t underestimate the power of your mindset. When you feel good, you’ll be able to handle the witching hour with more patience and positivity. Be sure you’re taking cod liver oil, getting daily sunlight, and eating a healthy diet—all things that help support a good mood. Exercise is another good mood-booster, and—bonus!—a daily stroll outside can boost your baby’s mood, too.

Lean on mom friends for support and reassurance

Sometimes just talking about the witching hour is therapeutic. It feels good to know that you’re not alone, that the witching hour is normal, and that other mamas have gone through this—and survived.

When the Witching Hour Might Signal Something More Serious

What happens if you think the witching hour is more than just the witching hour? If your baby is inconsolable day in and day out, you may have colicky baby on your hands.

Look out for the rule of three, when baby cries:

• For 3 hours a day,
• At least 3 days a week,
• For 3 consecutive weeks.

If you suspect the witching hour is something more, like colic, see your child’s pediatrician. They can help rule out any issues like acid reflux or dairy sensitivities and work with you to create a plan of action.

Remember…

While the witching hour can be challenging to manage, it’s normal. It’s often just a phase—it will pass.

The post What is the Witching Hour? (Plus, How to Survive It in One Piece!) appeared first on Mama Natural.

It’s a nerve-wracking topic—and every parent’s worst nightmare—but one that’s surrounded by so many questions. In this post, we’ll break it all down to help you feel informed and empowered. Here, you’ll find out:

What Is SIDS?

SIDS, or sudden infant death syndrome, is the unexplained death of a healthy baby less than one year old. (According to a study published in the journal Pediatrics, 90 percent of those deaths occurred before a baby had turned six months.)

SIDS is sometimes also referred to as cot death, because it generally occurs while a baby is sleeping.

How Common is SIDS?

Sudden infant death infant is the leading cause of death in babies under the age of one. (source)

Although that sounds really alarming, it’s not exactly common.

• Each year there are about four million babies born in the U.S. (source)
• In 2017, about 1,400 babies died of SIDS in the U.S. (source)
• That means there’s just a .00035 percent chance your baby will be affected. 

What’s the Difference Between SIDS and SUID?

SUID (or Sudden Unexplained Infant Death) is an overarching term that refers to any sudden infant death. In the U.S., approximately 3,600 babies die from SUID each year. (source)

In addition to SIDS, the term SUID includes:

• Accidental suffocation deaths
• Sudden natural deaths (cardiac, neurological, or metabolic)
• Deaths that could not be attributed to either SIDS or SUIDS
• And even homicides

What Causes SIDS?

Naturally, when we read about something scary, we have one question: What causes it?

We want to know what causes SIDS so we can do everything in our power to avoid it.

The bad news: Unfortunately, it’s very difficult to get a definitive answer for the cause of SIDS, though scientists believe the following could be contributing factors:

Some theories

While we don’t know a definitive answer to “what causes SIDS”, there are some things that can increase susceptibility:

Brain abnormality

One of the biggest areas of research focuses on brain development. The hippocampus is an area in your brain that regulates breathing, as well as heart rate. Research suggests that nearly 40 percent of babies who died of SIDS also had some degree of abnormality in this area of the brain. (source)

Recent upper respiratory infection

Because there appears to be a correlation between recent illness and SIDS, researchers are studying the role of infections—both viral and bacterial—in infants affected by sudden infant death syndrome.

Interestingly, this research on infections also coincides with safe sleep guidelines (putting baby to sleep on his/her back). Researchers say sleeping on your belly can increase the temperature of the airway, which creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. (source)

If baby is congested, don’t panic. The researchers who published this study say SIDS is very likely caused by multiple triggers.

Low birth weight

Low birth weight or premature babies tend to have more breathing difficulties, because both the lungs and brain may not be fully developed.

Although NICU teams are well-equipped to handle preemie babies, it doesn’t stop researchers from exploring what happens to newborns after they go home. Interestingly, scientists believe caffeine therapy may be a viable way to reduce unusual breathing episodes and thus reduce the risk of SIDS. In one study, premature babies who underwent caffeine treatments had reduced hypoxia, or pauses in breathing in which the brain doesn’t get enough oxygen. (source)

Note: This does not mean mom should drink more caffeine. In fact, studies link heavy caffeine use (more than 400 mg per day) to an increased risk in SIDs. (source) 

Secondhand smoke

A baby is at greater risk of SIDS if the mother smokes while pregnant and/or if the baby is exposed to secondhand smoke. Why? Researchers speculate smoke increases the risk of respiratory infection and interferes with proper breathing patterns. (source)

Environmental factors

When babies sleep in a room that is just 10 degrees Fahrenheit above room temperature, the risk of SIDS increases by 8.6 percent. (source) In fact, SIDS deaths are highest in the winter months when heat is commonly running in homes. Researchers don’t know exactly why warmer temperatures increase the risk for SIDS, but hypothesize that warm temps affect baby’s ability to rouse. (Read on for more information about creating a safe sleep environment for baby.)

The Best Way to Help Prevent SIDS: Create a Safe Sleeping Environment

Phew, so we’ve just covered a lot heavy material here, and before it’s gets too gloomy, let’s focus on the positives.

Doctors and researchers continue to research this topic and make strides in coming closer and closer to an answer every day. In fact, the SIDS rate has decreased by more than 40 percent since 1992. (source)

In order to prevent SIDS to the best of your ability, creating a safe sleeping environment is essential. Here’s how:

1. Share a room

The AAP recommends sharing a bedroom, but not the same sleeping surface, until baby turns one—or for at least six months. They say room-sharing decreases the risk of SIDS by as much as 50 percent. (source)

2. Use a flat, firm surface

Your baby should sleep on a firm, flat surface. This means the soft couch is off limits—even for daytime naps. Baby should never sleep unsupervised in a rock and play or a car seat, either—the angle of these chairs can constrict airways.

3. Keep the area clutter-free

Keep the crib free from anything but a secure-fighting sheet. Your baby should sleep far away from cords, pillows, stuffed animals, loose blankets, and crib bumpers. It’s also important to ensure there’s nothing nearby that could fall on baby—make sure any shelves or decor above the crib are nice and secure and out of reach.

4. Monitor the temperature

As mentioned above, a warm nursery can interfere with your baby’s ability to rouse. Your baby should sleep in a room with a temperature of approximately 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. You’d be surprised how cool this is! Make it easy on yourself, and invest in a small thermostat to keep in the room.

5. Don’t overdress baby

To prevent baby from overheating, dress baby in the same way you are dressed for sleep. For example, a onesie and a swaddle or sleep sack if you sleep with a nightshirt and blanket.

6. Swaddle safely

Swaddling can calm a fussy baby and promote longer periods of sleep, but according to a study from 2016, swaddling can increase a baby’s risk of SIDS. How so? It reduces a baby’s ability to rouse and wake up during a cardiac event, such as low blood pressure. (source) To keep your baby safe, follow the guidelines for swaddling and stop swaddling once your baby hits three months, or can roll over.

7. Put baby to bed on his/her back

Not only does sleeping on the back help reduce accidental suffocation, it also helps to keep your baby’s airway free. In fact, putting baby to bed on his/her back is so crucial that experts attribute this alone to the huge decline in SIDS in recent years.

8. Use a pacifier

Though many natural mamas avoid this particular baby accessory, a pacifier can help reduce your baby’s risk of SIDS. (source) In fact, pacifiers even reduce the risk of SIDS for babies with several risk factors. (source)

9. Run a fan in room

Whether you have a ceiling fan or a tabletop fan, running a fan throughout the night can reduce the risk of SIDS by 72 percent. (source) This is because it helps to keep air circulating and reduces the risk of overheating.

10. Get a new mattress

A study from Scotland found that SIDS risk increased when babies slept on used mattresses. (This includes hand-me-downs from siblings, as well as mattresses from other homes.) Researchers speculate this is because used mattresses harbor can harbor more toxic bacteria that breed as a result of overuse.

These findings support a New Zealand doctor’s widely contested claims that wrapping mattresses help reduce toxic gases from leaching out of the fabric, thus helping to prevent SIDS. But it’s important to note that there is still much research to be done on this subject—these are only theories. (source)

Not sure if you need a new mattress for your baby? If you do, look for a breathable, eco-friendly mattress that allows air to flow freely through the mattress. The Newton Baby Crib Mattress is 100% breathable, which allows air to flow freely the fabric. This breathability reduces the risk of suffocation as well as CO2 rebreathing, even if your little one starts to roll over in the middle of the night. Another perk? This is completely washable and Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it has the lowest VOC emissions possible.

If you’re looking for a mattress for you as well, check out this post.

Another Surprising Way to Help Prevent SIDS: Breastfeeding

In addition to creating a safe sleep environment, you can further protect your baby by breastfeeding. Breastfeeding reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome by about 50 percent. (source) Even better, breastfeeding past the age of six months bumps that stat up to 64 percent.

Breastfeeding helps prevent SIDS by addressing the biggest risk factors associated with it, including:

• Breastfeeding reduces risks of infections
• Breast milk digests quicker than formula, and as a result breastfed babies wake up more often
• Breast milk helps promote healthy brain development

How to Reduce the Risk of SIDS If You Cosleep

As noted above, the AAP specifically recommends room-sharing as opposed to cosleeping. But many natural parents credit cosleeping with many benefits and choose to cosleep anyway, employing a range of precautions to keep baby safe.

If you cosleep, never:

• Take any substance that alters your own ability to arouse, including medications that make you drowsy, sleeping pills, alcohol, and illicit drugs.
• Sleep on a couch or soft surface—these surfaces increase the risk of accidental suffocation.
• Use pillows or loose blankets by your baby—these items can cover baby’s head or wrap around their body, leading to suffocation.
• Leave space between the wall and the bed—baby can slide into this space and get stuck. (Tip: Many cosleeping parents place their mattress directly on the floor when co-sleeping.)
• Let siblings or pets sleep next baby—siblings and pets may unintentionally roll onto and squish your baby.

Bottom line: Cosleeping can be safe, but the key is to make sure that your sleeping environment is safe and designed with baby’s safety in mind.

Do Breathing Monitors Reduce the Risk of SIDS?

In recent years, wearable baby monitors that keep track of baby’s breathing patterns, like the Owlet, have exploded in popularity. But can they actually help prevent SIDS?

Unfortunately, epidemiological studies show that these devices have no effect on the incidence of SIDS in healthy infants. (source)

In fact, even the American Academy of Pediatrics cautions against using all wearable monitors. Why? They have high incidences of false alerts. Plus, there is some concern that these devices may give off harmful EMFs—especially since there is no space between baby and the monitor.

Remember…

Though it is certainly scary and requires special consideration, SIDS is not common. Take a deep breath, mama! By practicing safe sleep, you can do a lot to help prevent a terrible tragedy.

The post SIDS Prevention: Is It Possible? appeared first on Mama Natural.

Newborn Sleep Patterns

Newborns do sleep—just not eight hours a night like adults. Newborns sleep eight to nine hours during the day and about eight hours at night—a total of about 16 hours per day. But their sleep is generally in short bursts. Why?

Because baby’s brain isn’t fully developed, they do not follow the same sleep patterns as adults—they don’t enter deep sleep and they don’t have a functioning circadian rhythm until about 3 to 4 months. (source) What’s more, babies stomaches are about the size of a golf ball, so they need to eat more frequently. These combined factors are a recipe for disaster when it comes to sleeping for long periods of time.

Tips to Help Baby Sleep

Because of these nuances, it can sometimes feel like you’re not getting any sleep at all. And if your baby is suffering from excess gas, acid reflux, or colic? Well, that kind of sleep deprivation is real. So how do you get baby to sleep when you want them to?

1. Watch wakefulness time

You might think that forcing baby to stay awake during the day would lead to longer stretches of sleep at night, but this strategy isn’t recommended. This comes as a surprise to many parents, but newborns (0-3 months) really can’t stay up longer than 45 minutes to 1 hour (2 hours at most!) without getting overtired. And the problem is, once they get overtired, they become harder to put down to sleep. Give your baby the space and time they need to rest.

2. Set morning wake time

If baby gets up before 6 a.m. and seems up for the day, try nursing and rocking him back to sleep—even if they sleep in your arms. Starting the day too early can set up a bad cycle for the day. Hopefully, you’ll help to set their internal clock to eventually sleep till 6:30-7:30 a.m.

3. Get the first nap right

Sometimes, if baby gets overtired before you put them down for that first nap, it messes with your whole day. Getting that first nap right—getting baby to sleep 45 minutes after they first wake up—you can set the tone for the whole day. Because of this, you might feel like you’re basically changing baby, feeding baby, burping baby, swaddling, and rocking right back to sleep. That’s totally normal in the early days.

4. Change baby’s diaper before feedings

Adults get sleepy after a big meal, and so do babies. It’s not uncommon for little ones to fall asleep at the breast or bottle, or start getting drowsy. Interrupting that with a diaper change can stimulate baby, delaying sleep.

Change baby’s diaper before each feeding to take advantage of their natural desire to close their eyes and nap when their belly is full.

5. Limit stimulation

Everything is new to baby. Because of this, babies get easily overstimulated. Since too much stimulation can make it hard to get baby to sleep, limit visitors and keep bright lights and noise to a minimum. (Check out these tips to limit your own stimulation sources like blue lights!)

• Start winding down 5-10 minutes before naps and 15-20 minutes before bedtime
• Develop some sort of routine, whether that includes turning on soft music, singing a lullaby, or simply swaddling and turning on a noisemaker prior to sleep time. Babies are creatures of habit, and this can help signal that it’s time to rest.
• Don’t schedule any activities close to baby’s bedtime. Ending the day with infant massage or reading a baby book are both excellent ways to gently stimulate and calm baby before their big night’s sleep.

6. Watch for cues

Learn to read your baby’s signals. Baby may be tired if they are:

• Tugging at their ear
• Yawning
• Fussing excessively
• Staring off into the distance

7. Try swaddling

Babies have a startle reflex or Moro reflex, which means they can startle themselves awake. Because they also don’t have good control of their limbs, they can scratch themselves too. Swaddling a baby recreates that womb-like feeling where they were definitely cramped. Here’s how to swaddle a baby the right way. Just remember: Baby will have to stop being swaddled when he/she can roll over, around 3 months of age.

8. Use white noise or a baby shusher

It’s also loud in the womb, so use some kind of noise machine. I actually use two because we live in a loud house with a bunch of kids running around. I have one that’s lower in tone and one that’s higher. Any kind of low rumbling noise is good, because it washes out background noise. Here are some you can try:

• White noise machine: There are a number of machines specifically designed to create white noise. Some also have options for waves, rain, and other soothing sounds.
• Baby Shusher: This little device gently shushes your baby to sleep. Alternatively, you can use the app by the same name—just be sure to turn your phone or device onto airplane mode to limit EMF exposure.
• YouTube videos: There are also a number of online videos that have sushing sounds on loop. As noted above, just be sure to use a hardwired device and turn your WiFi off to limit EMF exposure while baby sleeps.

9. Use movement or vibration

Again, in the womb, there’s lots of motion. According to Dr. Harvey Karp, the rhythms experienced in utero trigger a reflex that helps keep babies relaxed. Once baby is earthside, there are some babies who simply won’t sleep without that same movement.

Rocking baby in a glider or gently bouncing them on a birthing ball are great ways to help baby fall asleep. And, if baby needs constant motion to stay asleep, there are many chairs, swings, and even bassinets that can help. Some glide, some vibrate. Some have timers, some don’t. Research and find the best one for your baby.

10. Make the room dark

It’s also very dark in the womb! Use blackout curtains, or drape thick fabric (like towels), up over the windows so that the room is dark to encourage better sleep rhythms. This is especially helpful during long, bright summer days. At night, use amber night lights if needed, as these aren’t as stimulating as other lights.

11. Check the temperature of the room

The ideal temperature for newborn sleep is cooler than you think. The recommendation is 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. If your baby is obviously tired but refusing to fall asleep, check the room’s thermostat. Dress baby in natural, breathable fabrics (like organic cotton or muslin) appropriate for the temperature.

12. Do baby massage

Baby massage is not only a wonderful way to bond with your little one, but it also helps them sleep. Research shows that baby massage lowers cortisol levels, the stress hormone, and stimulates melatonin production, the hormone that promotes sleep. It also lowers stress hormones and helps baby relax. Read about the how and why of baby massage here.

13. Use light pressure

Speaking of massage, using touch and light pressure when putting baby to sleep can help. When you set baby in the bassinet or crib, keep your hand on baby’s chest for a few moments for added comfort and to still the startle reflex. You can also use special swaddles that have a very lightweight sack sewed inside that may soothe baby throughout entire sleep session.

14. Try a pacifier

Similarly, some babies have an innate need to suck. Breastfeeding can certainly fulfill this need, but if baby’s tummy is full or mom’s nipples are sore, a pacifier can help comfort baby. In fact, this study found that sucking on a pacifier helped reduce anxiety and even pain.

Of course, there are some disadvantages to using pacifiers. Learn more about the pros and cons of baby pacifiers.

15. Go outside!

Research suggests that babies who are exposed to sunlight in the afternoon sleep better at night. WOOT! Daylight can also help get baby into a better day/night sleep pattern. (Keep in mind that a child’s circadian rhythm doesn’t truly emerge till 3-4 months of age.) Here are some tips to use light to your advantage:

• Expose baby to natural light first thing in the morning.
• Keep the blinds open during the day.
• Get outside as much as possible.
• Dim the lights and limit blue light exposure (TV, cell phones, etc.) after sunset.

16. Watch for the 45 minute cat nap

A baby’s sleep cycle is about 45 minutes long, so you may notice that your baby starts waking up from naps almost exactly 45 minutes after you put her down. That’s fine for a morning or late afternoon nap, but ideally baby’s midday nap will incorporate more than one sleep cycle.

Try turning the rocker back on right around that 45-minute mark. Or, if baby wakes up, dream feed her back to bed, if possible. Even if you have to rock baby in your arms and nurse for awhile to get her to extend that nap, it might help the rest of the day go well.

17. Keep naps shorter in late afternoon

This is a great time to do a nap in a swing, in the car, or in a baby carrier—you don’t want a super long late afternoon nap, as this can interfere with a good bedtime hour. Wraps and structured carriers both work well for naps.

18. Once baby hits 6 weeks, aim for an earlier bedtime

The more sleep baby can get before midnight, the better. Babies will naturally want to go to bed for the night earlier and earlier as they get older. I found all of my babies settled for nighttime sleep between 6:30-7:30 p.m.

More Baby Sleep Tips for Nursing Moms

19. Drink tart cherry juice

Melatonin is a wonderful sleep aid, but it’s not approved for babies to take directly. A breastfeeding mama can drink tart cherry juice, a beverage proven to be naturally high in melatonin, to pass some of the sleep benefits onto baby through milk.

20. Watch caffeine intake

Although caffeine is considered relatively safe while breastfeeding, babies, especially those under six months, may be sensitive to mom’s caffeine intake. (source) Caffeine levels in milk peak approximately 1-2 hours after consumption, so plan your beverage accordingly. And if baby’s having a hard time sleeping, consider eliminating caffeine altogether.

Know that there will be crazy days!

There will be days where all you’re doing is swaddling, rocking and soothing a baby to sleep, only to have them wake again. Do what you can to help baby sleep, but don’t beat yourself up if nothing works. Think you’re dealing with the witching hour? Read more here.

Laughing at the situation can help diffuse frustration. (Watch the below video for a giggle as we try to get our firstborn to “sleep.”) My subsequent kids were much better sleepers, probably because I was so much more relaxed and confident.

So breathe deep. Remember: This is just a phase—you will sleep again.

The post Baby Sleep: 20 Surefire Ways to Get a Newborn Down appeared first on Mama Natural.

When Can Babies Sleep With Blankets

Experts say babies can have a small, breathable blanket after 12 months. Why? By this age:

• The risk of SIDS goes way down. The risk is highest between one and four months, and drops steadily after that. In fact, 90 percent of SIDS deaths occur before six months of age.
• Baby is much stronger. At this point, babies are generally strong enough to roll over and move blankets away from their faces, posing less of a suffocation risk.

But Should Babies Sleep With Blankets?

But keep in mind that all babies develop differently, and age should never be considered an absolute. There are so many other very important things to consider, like how strong your baby is. If your baby doesn’t have the muscle strength to pull themselves up yet, it’s best to avoid blankets for the time being. And even if your baby seems strong enough, there are other great, safer options for warmth and comfort while baby is still sleeping in a crib. (More on that below.)

What to Use Instead of Baby Blankets

If you live in a cold climate, you might be weighing the risk of using a blanket against keeping your baby warm. But did you know that SIDS deaths rise in the winter, due to overbundling?

Rather than tuck baby in with blankets, try these comfortable, warm and safer alternatives:

Sleep sacks

The AAP recommends wearable blankets, or sleep sacks, to keep  baby warm. These are made to cover the body and not the head (think sleeping bag for baby!). Sleep sacks are essentially closed gowns that have holes for baby’s arms, but no casings for their legs. They usually have zippered or Velcro closures, and are fairly easy to get on and off. Their loose shape allows baby to move around, too. Sleep sacks are available in a wide range of sizes, from newborn through 5T. 

For those in warm climates, or summer months:

Halo 100% Cotton Muslin Sleep Sack: This wearable blanket is crafted with two layers of lightweight and super soft muslin, making it an exceptionally breathable option for optimal airflow in warmer temperatures.

For those in moderate climates, or spring/fall months:

Burt’s Bees Baby Organic Cotton Sleeping Bag: This cotton sleep sack is thicker than some other brands, providing a little extra warmth when the temperatures are transitioning. Still, they’re very breathable, so baby won’t overheat.

For those in cold climates, or winter months:

Woolino Baby Sleeping Sack: Though this option is certainly pricey, it’s made of 100 percent merino wool, a natural, hypoallergenic material that helps regulate body temperature. It’s also extremely soft for the ultimate in comfort.

What Kind of Blanket Can Baby Sleep With?

If you do decide to use a blanket for a strong baby above the age of one, some blankets are safer than others. Here are some things to consider if you’re shopping around:

Consider length

You don’t want baby to get tangled, so start with a blanket that’s relatively small. It should just cover baby from the torso down. Anything too large or heavy can still be a hazard, as it can wrap around baby and get stuck.

This is a great option.

Consider material

Babies move around a lot, so breathable materials are better in case the blanket ends up over their face. Pick a lightweight blanket made of organic cotton or muslin.

This blanket set is a great option.

Consider weight

Be aware that overheating is a risk factor for SIDS, because babies can’t regulate their body temperatures the same way adults can. Choose a lightweight, breathable blanket, and keep baby’s room between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Do yourself a favorite: Get a small thermometer to keep in the room baby sleeps in. You’d be surprised how cool 68-72 degrees is! (Temperature isn’t the only thing that helps you sleep better; check out more tips here!)

We Co-Sleep: Can We Use Blankets?

The AAP doesn’t recommend co-sleeping at any age (they recommend room sharing instead) for safety reasons, but there are plenty of experts who say co-sleeping is safe, particularly after the age of one—as long as you follow some important safety precautions.

• Avoid anything too fluffy, such as a down comforter, or with ruffles and excess fabric. Try to find a breathable light cotton blanket, like this one.
• Use a firm mattress
• Ensure there’s no space between the bed and the wall
• Keep all pillows away from baby’s face
• Dress baby in breathable clothing
• Place baby to sleep on his/her back

For more information, read about the pros and cons of co-sleeping and how to do it safely.

Can Baby Have Toys in the Crib?

Now that you know when baby can sleep with blankets, what about those cute stuffed animals, loveys and other toys?

• Before one year: The crib should be empty until baby is at least one years old and strong enough to roll over and pull themselves up.
• After one year: An appropriately-sized small lovey, like this one, is okay to put in the crib—just make sure it doesn’t have any small parts that can come off.

The AAP says these objects pose little risk to healthy babies after 12 months of age. But don’t stuff the crib, either. Baby should have plenty of room to move around freely. 

Remember…

Although a small blanket and one appropriately-sized soft toy can be safe once baby turns one (provided they are strong enough), baby doesn’t need much in the crib with them overnight. The better, safer option is a wearable blanket. Babies move around so much, chances are any blanket you so lovingly draped over them before bed wouldn’t stay on long anyway!

The post When Can Babies Sleep With Blankets? Plus, Safe Alternatives appeared first on Mama Natural.

Let’s talk about it, plus answer:

• When do babies start dreaming?
• What do babies dream about?
• Can babies have nightmares?
• Can you tell if your baby is dreaming?

Do Babies Dream?

There isn’t a simple answer to this one. According to The Atlantic, research on the topic is limited, largely because the use of brain-scanning machines on babies is not an easy feat. It’s a struggle because of their small size and constant movement, but there are also ethical questions about putting a vulnerable infant in an MRI scanner (source). Plus, we obviously can’t ask babies if they had a dream.

Because of this, researchers have to depend on adult dream research, observational studies, and well-formed hypotheses. And, as you’ll see, this can lead to differing opinions.

Do babies dream? Why some experts say yes…

According to the New York Times, Dr. Charles P. Pollak, the Director of the Center for Sleep Medicine in New York, says the fact that babies enter REM—the state of sleep where vivid dreams begin—is proof enough that babies do dream.

If that’s the case, babies spend about 50 percent of their sleep in REM state, compared to 25 percent for adults, leading us to believe that babies actually dream more than adults! (source)

Do babies dream? Why some experts say no…

There are, however, some neuroscientists who don’t believe that REM in babies directly correlates to dreaming. They hypothesize that newborns and infants haven’t had enough experiences or acquired the capacity to imagine things visually and spatially while they sleep.

Psychologist David Foulkes believes that, for babies, REM has less to do with dreaming and more to do with brain development. Instead, experts say that deep state of sleep allows babies brains to build pathways, become integrated and, later, develop language.

If Babies Don’t Dream, When Do They Start to Dream?

Researchers who say babies don’t dream believe children start to dream the way adults do around the age of 4 or 5. But even then, these experts believe the dreams are devoid of characters or emotions. They say the real dreaming (the ones filled with unicorns who swim and monsters who have tea parties) don’t begin until about 7 or 8 years old. (Although my 5 year old tells me about her vivid, scary dreams! ?)

What Do Babies Dream About?

If babies do dream the way adults do, what babies dream about is even tougher to determine. Once again, we cannot ask a baby what they dreamed about the night before.

There is some evidence in adult dream research, however, that says the direction of the eye movement corresponds to the content of the dream, and some researchers say this could translate to babies.

• If the eyes move side to side, baby may be dreaming about something lateral, like crawling through a field.
• If the eyes move up and down, baby may be dreaming of something vertical, like looking up at a jungle gym or maybe even flying up the stairs.

Can Babies Have Nightmares?

We’ve all wondered what’s going on in that head of theirs when they wake up in the middle of the night screaming. Is it more than just waking up to a dark room? Is baby having nightmares?

Experts say it’s unlikely that babies have nightmares. As discussed above, even if babies dream, they aren’t likely to dream the way older children and adults do. (source)

Instead, baby may be experiencing:

• Confusional events: This happens when your baby is coming out of a deep sleep and transitioning to the next sleep cycle. This might cause baby to feel confused and disoriented, with incoherent speech, and possibly moaning or crying. (source) This is not a nightmare, because it has nothing to do with a scary dream; it is simply the act of waking up for a brief period of time before entering the next sleep cycle.
• Sleep terrors: Night or sleep terrors occur approximately 90 minutes into sleep and are characterized by screaming, increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and appearing awake. These reactions are caused by an overstimulated central nervous system—sometimes a result of stress, fever, sleep deprivation, or certain medications. (source, source) If a child is affected by night terrors, this typically doesn’t happen until after 18 months of age. (source)

How to Tell If Your Baby Is Dreaming

Ok, so you can’t exactly tell whether that smirk means your baby is dreaming, but there are telltale signs that your baby has entered REM—the time in which they might be dreaming.

REM stands for rapid eye movements, so when you see baby’s little eyes batting fast, you can bet they have entered REM.

Other signs your baby has entered REM include:

• Fast and irregular breathing
• Increased heart rate
• Changes in body temperature
• Increased blood pressure
• Twitching of the face and limbs

(source)

How About You?

The research in this field is limited, but so many moms are curious to know if their babies dream or have nightmares. What do you think: Do babies dream? Share with us in the comments below!

The post Do Babies Dream or Have Nightmares? appeared first on Mama Natural.

Best Baby Monitor

There are tons of amazing baby monitors out there with video screens that not only provide you with a clear picture of your sleeping baby, but also have added functionality like movement sensors, breathing rate, and more. The problem? These baby monitors—though, admittedly, tempting—emit harmful EMFs.

But like me, you probably wonder if there any any viable options out there to give you the peace of mind you’re looking for. Truth be told, the best baby monitor is something that’s been used for centuries: your own ears. 

Of course, in today’s modern society, most parents won’t accept that as a valid solution. If you really want to use a baby monitor (no judgement—most of us do!), an analog monitor emits the least amount of EMFs.

The best low-EMF analog monitors

Many companies are wising up to the dangers of too much EMF exposure and creating low emission monitors. Admittedly, these aren’t the most tech-savvy monitors; in fact, they’re very basic. Still, they will amplify baby’s sounds, helping you to rest a little easier.

Some good, low EMF options include:

First Years Crips and Clear Audio Monitor

The First Years Crisp and Clear Audio Monitor – The Best Baby Monitor (Plus 4 Ways to Reduce EMF Exposure)

This audio monitor is analog so you won’t be gazing at your little one’s slumbering face, but you will be able to hear her clearly. Both the baby and the parent monitor come with AC adapters, which means no Wi-Fi and no Bluetooth are necessary. The only downside? You might get interference (picking up someone else’s signal)—especially if you live in a big city.

Safety 1st Sure Glow Baby Monitor

Safety 1st Sure Glow Audio Monitor – The Best Baby Monitor (Plus 4 Ways to Reduce EMF Exposure)

At $36, this audio-only monitor is hands-down one of the most affordable options out there! Both the receiver and the transmitter can be plugged into the wall. Unlike the First Years monitor, the Sure Glow has four channels, which means you can switch channels if you’re picking up interference.

Angelcare Baby Sound Monitor

Angelcare Baby Sound Monitor – The Best Baby Monitor (Plus 4 Ways to Reduce EMF Exposure)

This monitor is not as low emission as the previous two monitors, but the Angelcare makes a compromise: It only turns on if it detects noise. As a plus, this monitor records temperature, has a range of 1000 feet, and has less “noisy” static than other options.

Bebcare Hear Audio Baby Monitor with Ultra Low Radiation

This monitor boasts ultra-low radiation thanks to DSR radio technology. This means it reduces wireless emissions by up to 90%! This Bebcare monitor doesn’t stop there — it also does double duty. It’s a starry nightlight that plays up to six relaxing lullabies. Oh, and did we mention it’s good for up to 2000 feet? Pretty awesome!

What About Video Baby Monitors?

Seriously, what can’t video baby monitors do? When it comes to video monitors, the best baby monitor can:

• Display video
• Offer two-way communication
• Provide live-streaming to apps and monitors
• Be remotely controlled to tilt the angle of camera
• Play lullabies
• Monitor the temperature of the nursery
• Alert you to potential problems (such as a nursery that is too chilly)

With a list of features like that, it’s almost too tempting to pass video monitors up. There’s no doubt that baby monitors (especially video monitors) have come a long way since the first baby monitors were invented.

But Video Baby Monitors Emit High Levels of EMFs

Unfortunately, these devices next to your child’s provide more EMF exposure than being 150m away from a cell tower. We’ll get into the health implications below, but for now, let’s just say that’s reason enough to say goodbye to the lullaby-singing, temperature-recording video baby monitor.

The following video measures the EMFs given off by the most commonly recommended video baby monitor, Infant Optics. You’ll see that the video baby monitor receiver (the part in the parents’ room) emits up to 5000 uW/m2 of radiation, while the part of the monitor that stays in the baby’s room (the transmitter) emits 30,000 uW/m2. Yikes! (source)

The exception…

If you really want the piece of mind a video baby monitor offers, the Philips Avent Video Baby Monitor is a decent option. While it does emit EMFs, it is sound-activated, so the monitor isn’t always on. Plus, you also have the option to use an audio only mode.

What About Wearable Monitors?

If you’re looking for the best baby monitor, a wearable monitor definitely isn’t it. Unfortunately, these seem like the safest choice (for monitoring purposes), but they are actually the worst choice. There is no space between baby and the monitor; baby is literally attached to the monitor for hours at a time.

Even the American Academy of Pediatrics cautions against using all wearable monitors, including sleep socks like the Owlet monitor. These devices not only expose babies to radiation, but they also have high incidences of false alerts due to the natural (yet irregular) breathing patterns of newborns. (source)

Unfortunately, these baby monitors are marketed to nervous parents who are bombarded with information about sleep safety, SIDS, and newborn breathing issues.

How to Safely Monitor Baby

So what’s a mama to do?

For naptime:

• Wearing baby in a wrap or sling for naps can help you feel relaxed knowing baby is safely snoozing.
• Plan ahead for baby’s nap.If you know you’ll be folding laundry, lay baby down for a nap in the same room.

For nighttime:

• Get a bedside bassinet, like Guava, or a co-sleeping pillow, like SnuggleMe Organic, so that you can stay close and let your mama instincts alert you if your baby needs some assistance.

How to Reduce EMF Exposure From Baby Monitors

When all is said and done, the best baby monitor is the one that makes you feel most comfortable. So regardless of which monitor you use, you can limit EMF exposure with these tips:

Consider the crib location

Place baby monitors 10 feet or more from the crib. The further you are from EMF-emitting devices, the better. (source, source)

Use voice activation

If you use digital monitors, using the voice activation feature can reduce your EMF exposure. (source) Voice activation refers to a setting on the monitor; when the monitor picks up voices (or cries), it will turn on. This keeps EMF low, because the monitor isn’t always on.

Turn it off when not in use

Studies show that electronic devices emit microwave radiation even when not in active use. Turn the baby monitor off when not in use; standby mode is still considered on. (source)

Consider a Greenwave Dirty Electricity Home Kit

Greenwave Dirty Electricity plug-ins reduce dirty electricity, or surges of electricity that come through the electric wires in your home. They are easy to use—simply plug them into your outlets and then plug your baby monitor into them. You can use these in your whole house, not just the nursery.

How About You?

What do you think is the best baby monitor? How do you reduce EMF exposure in your house?

The post The Best Baby Monitor (Plus 4 Ways to Reduce EMF Exposure) appeared first on Mama Natural.

What Is the 4 Month Sleep Regression?

The 4 month sleep regression is when a baby’s brain makes a developmental leap and his/her sleep cycles change. Though referred to as the “4 month” sleep regression, it generally happens between 3 and 5 months of age.

When a baby is a newborn, their sleep is disorganized and is not governed by the circadian rhythm. They fall asleep easily, but never enter a true deep sleep, sleeping at odd intervals throughout the day and night.

Around 4 months, their sleep becomes more like an adult’s, with 45 minute sleep cycles governed by the circadian rhythm. Here’s what a typical sleep cycle looks like:

• 0-10 minutes: Falling lightly asleep
• 10-20 minutes: Settling into a deeper sleep
• 20-30 minutes: Heavy sleeping
• 30-40 minutes: Coming out of a heavy sleep
• 40-45 minutes: Lightly sleeping and easily awoken

If an adult wakes during those lighter periods of sleep, they generally fall back asleep without even realizing it.

A baby, on the other hand, hasn’t yet learned to fall back asleep. They may wake fully and be fussy or even want to play.

What Causes the 4 Month Sleep Regression?

We’ve established that brain development is the main cause of the 4 month sleep regression, but there are other factors that can affect the severity of the 4 month sleep regression.

1. Other Milestones

“[The 4 month sleep regression] affects children differently depending on temperament and what other milestones it happens to coincide with. There is a lot going on at this time for your baby!” — Katelyn Thompson from Sweet Pea Sleep Solutions

It may be hardly noticeable for a baby with an easy-going temperament who hasn’t started rolling or teething yet. For others—perhaps a sensitive child who is learning to roll or popping a first tooth—it can be a seriously difficult time for all involved. ? Here are some baby milestones that occur around the same time and might interrupt sleep: 

• Teething
• Breaking out of the swaddle
• Rolling over

2. Increased Appetite

If your baby is waking excessively through the night, he/she could be hungry. Breast milk digests in about 2 hours, and baby is having insane growth spurts that require extra energy.

And, interestingly, lactation follows the circadian rhythm. Prolactin production increases after the sun goes down, meaning you make more milk during the night. (Why oh why?!) Babies wake up to nurse because they know it’s there waiting for them, like ice cream in the freezer for a midnight snack (source). What’s even more fascinating is that nighttime breast milk is fattier, more filling, and contains extra melatonin—the hormone needed to fall asleep.

3. Need for Physical Affection

Then there’s their need for physical affection (which is a real, biological need!). At this age, baby still hasn’t been outside the womb longer than he or she was in the womb. Maybe baby is awake because she needs to reconnect with mama? If mom works away from home, baby will play catch-up breastfeeding during the nightly hours.

In fact, research shows that many babies nurse most frequently between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. (especially in the early weeks and months)—they can take in as much as 20% of their total daily caloric needs at night. 

4. Unfavorable Sleep Environment

Sleeping areas that are too bright, too loud or quiet, or too warm or cold will prevent baby from getting comfortable. Think about your own sleep needs—you probably prefer a temperate, dark space. Then consider that baby is still adjusting to the bright, loud, cold world. It only makes sense that they’d be very sensitive to their environments. A 4-month-old may need exterior sleep aids like blackout curtains, white noise makers, and a sleep sack.

5. Lack of Daytime Stimulation

A 4-month-old’s brain is on overdrive, observing the world around them. Challenging that growing brain with reading, age-appropriate toys, sensory play, and other stimulating activities can help tire baby out. Just like if we stay indoors and sit on the couch all day, sleep may not be as appealing or deep if baby hasn’t had enough activity. (We discuss ideas for daytime stimulation below.)

How Long Does Sleep Regression Last For?

Not forever! ? Experts say the 4 month sleep regression phase generally disrupts naps and night sleeps for 2-6 weeks.

“Don’t think you’ve done anything wrong or that there is something wrong with your baby. This is a typical developmental milestone, and you often have little control over how much it will affect your little one. Know that ‘this too shall pass,’ but in the meantime, definitely work on good sleep habits and keeping your child from becoming too overtired during this phase.”  — Katelyn Thompson from Sweet Pea Sleep Solutions

What to Do When Your Baby Won’t Sleep

This 4 month sleep regression time is hard, especially since it often comes just as your baby was getting into a good sleeping groove! Some mamas also go back to work right around this time. Having that new schedule turned upside down in an instant is brutal!

It’s not a result of anything you’ve done and there’s nothing wrong with your baby—the 4 month sleep regression is totally normal. 

This too shall pass, and in the meantime, use these day and nighttime strategies to work on good sleep habits:

During the day…

1. Catch some rays. Good sleep starts first thing in the morning. Exposure baby to natural daylight to help calibrate his day-night cycle. As the sunlight reaches the iris, it actually sets the circadian rhythm for the day and can support a good sleep at night.
2. Get fresh air. The great outdoors is full of sounds, sights, smells and experiences that are rich food for baby’s brain. And if you need more convincing, one study suggests babies who spend more time outdoors in the afternoon sleep better. You can even experiment with an afternoon nap outdoors in stroller, a popular Scandinavian practice. Of course, be sure baby is properly dressed and kept warm.
3. Stimulate their brains. These are the wonder weeks, so stimulate that growing little brain, which may wipe them out by bedtime. Try:
   • Simple games like peek-a-boo
   • Tummy time
   • Reading colorful books
   • Playing classical music
   • Singing
   • Dancing
   • Skin-to-skin time
   • Talk to baby; imitate her; smile and look into her eyes. If you need to get chores done, babywear her. All of this connection stimulates baby’s brain.
   • Avoid screen time of any form for your small baby. It’s been associated with reduced sleep in babies, plus it’s not good for their developing brains!

In the evening…

1. Introduce a bedtime routine.  At this age, baby is improving his or her memory and pattern recognition. Introducing a gentle routine and working on independent sleep associations is a good idea. An infant bedtime ritual might include:
   • Dimming lights (artificial light and blue light hinders melatonin)
   • Giving a warm bath (maybe with Epsom salts if doctor approves)
   • Massaging baby’s scalp, arms, legs and feet with coconut or olive oil
   • Speaking quietly to baby while changing their diaper and putting on cozy PJs
   • Playing soft music or singing a lullaby
   • Reading a story or saying a bedtime prayer
   • Giving kisses and snuggling
   • Final nursing session or bedtime bottle: “filling up the tank” or “topping off baby” right before bedtime is important for lengthening the time baby sleeps.
   • Finally, the proverbial, “Lay baby down drowsy, but not asleep.” This allows baby to self-settle enough that when he or she wakes again between cycles, they may be able to self-soothe as a matter of routine.
2. Promote a peaceful sleeping environment. At 4 months, most babies can roll over, so swaddling is no longer appropriate. Instead, try:
   • blackout curtains
   • a white noise machine
   • an age-appropriate sleep sack
   • Safely diffusing 1-2 drops of lavender or chamomile essential oils. These oils have relaxation properties and help calm baby.
3. Pause. When baby wakes in the night, give her a moment to self-settle before picking her up. She may surprise you by transitioning to the next sleep cycle on her own.
4. Shhh! If you need to change a diaper or feed in the middle of the night (and you probably will), don’t play with baby or do a lot of talking. This stimulates the baby’s brain to an even more wakeful state. During the night, business is business and it’s good baby knows that.
5. Dream feed. Before you go to bed, you could try gently “waking” baby to feed and putting baby right back down to sleep. In one small study, this did help baby sleep longer durations at night.
6. Ride the wave. The relaxed approach is perfectly acceptable. If nursing-on-demand is how you do parenting, there is really no reason to change anything. If you’re a cosleeping parent, the sidelay breastfeeding position is a secret weapon to soothe baby back to sleep while safely getting a few Zzz’s yourself.

My Baby Still Won’t Sleep!

“For some babies, the [4 month sleep regression] coupled with very dependent sleep habits and an unpredictable schedule can cause an overtired cycle that can last far beyond the regression.”  — Katelyn Thompson

You may want to try a sleep consultation. Speaking to a pediatric sleep consultant that understands your style of parenting is invaluable. They can help you tweak your baby’s sleep association, offer product suggestions, and coach you through the tough times. Many offer Skype sessions. Find one here. 

If you’ve tried everything (including giving it some time), you should visit your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical condition.

How About You?

Did you experience the 4 month sleep regression? What strategies did you use to combat the exhaustion? How did you manage to get baby on a schedule that works for your family?

The post 4 Month Sleep Regression: How to Stop the Madness! appeared first on Mama Natural.