We have a 2 1/2 year old and a 4 month old. We swaddled the 2 1/2 y.o. as a baby, but with #2, well, we just kind of forgot! He was a good sleeper from the beginning. Now he is still fine, he goes to sleep easily at 6:30 or 7, and he wakes up several times to nurse (and easily goes back to sleep). He seems well adjusted, but would it really be better if he were swaddled? Will he be a sensory mess later on?Just curious!
If it ain't broke don't fix it! Not all babies need/want to be swaddled. You little guy sounds like he's doing great!
If he were needing to be swaddled, I would think that would have been something he would have let you know he needed from birth as they prefer to be wrapped in their comfortable, womb-like position.
At 4 months, I'd say it would be a hindrance at this point in time. I don't think there's any reason to swaddle other than the baby's preferences. Since he did well without swaddling to this point, I'd say no need to start it up now.
Good luck.
My 2 oldest kids HATED being swaddled. The 8 month old just recently stopped needing it. If he doesn't need it don't bother. No harm done!!!!
Some people swaddle up to 9 months. I swaddled my son 6 weeks and then he was tired of it. He wanted to suck his thumb and swaddling was getting in the way. Early on it's a reminder of the womb. Once their muscles are a bit more developed and coordinated, babies like to reach out and kick and grab. I wouldn't worry about it.
At 4 months, I wouldn't start swaddling a baby. If he's used to the freedom of his limbs, he might not like it and I don't really see a benefit in starting it at this point.
I wouldn't sweat it. My 1st son was born in October so naturally he was swaddled cuz it was cold. Maybe even over-swaddled. My 2nd son was born in June, and this past summer was soooo hot he often was only in a diaper. We barely swaddled him. He's 9 months now and fine, though I miss my baby burritos!! Our older one is 2 1/2 as well and he's ok. Your son is getting plenty of bonding with you nursing him. Keep it up! I'm hoping to be done with #2 this summer...I want my boobs back!
My kids never liked swaddling. My girls all hated having their arms tucked in and would complain if they were. They are all fine now so I don't think sensory issues would be a problem if you don't swaddle.
He will be fine. Swaddling has been a relatively new thing. I mean it was
done years ago for some babies if Mom thought they needed to be
swaddled. Not alot of emphasis on it then, like it is now. Now they sell
swaddling blankets. To ans. your question, he will be fine. He seems
happy. Just enjoy your family. Do not worry.
We had a hard time weaning my son off the swaddle, at 9 months. If your baby is doing fine with out it, why bother? Sounds like you are all doing well, so I'd skip it at this point.
T.
Barefoot Books Amabassador
www.ReadandGrow.com
I only swaddled my two for a few days after they came home from the hospital. After that, it seemed to upset them, so I gave it up. I don't think you have anything to worry about. Every child is different, and if your 4 month old is happy and a good sleeper, then he doesn't need to be swaddled. Obviously what you are doing is working! :-)
