Yep, it's a Miracle

Zoodle is one of those babies who LOVES being swaddled. There are varying opinions on how many hours a day a baby should be wrapped up. (Some experts say as much as the baby wants; some say max 10 hours a day because of limb development.) So while Zoodle might love being swaddled, say, 20 hours a day or more, I generally stick to naptime, nighttime, and sometimes dinner-fixing time if he's fussy.

Anyway, I am a swaddling moron. I've never been good at swaddling with a blanket. Thankfully my AWESOME friend Kristi sent me a Miracle Blanket, and let me tell you, this thing is truly a miracle. If he's fussing, even outright crying, he generally stops when I'm about a quarter of the way through with the wrapping process. And the Miracle Blanket actually keeps his arms in, which can be tough when using a regular blanket.

Here's a picture.



Yes, it looks like a baby straitjacket, but does he look upset to be in it? And the book of Luke says Baby Jesus was "wrapped in swaddling clothes" so Zoodle's in good company.

Miracle Blankets are pricey but to me it's been worth it. (I know, easy to say since I didn't actually buy it, but even if I had--I'd pay quite a bit for something this effective.) They can be purchased at www.miracleblanket.com (where there is a good instructional video and lots of great info), at www.amazon.com, and at various other places.

Now for a couple of not-so-pricey alternatives. Becki (my sister) swears by the swaddling technique Harvey Karp describes in the book and DVD The Happiest Baby on the Block. However, for all but tiny babies, most store-bought blankets are too small. Her solution is to purchase a cheap knit jersey bed sheet (top sheet), queen-sized. Cut four square blankets out of it. (Queen sized sheets are nearly square.) These "blankets" work very well, even with babies who tend to get out of normal blankets. No need to even hem the edges. Make sure you use Dr. Karp's excellent swaddling technique. The book and DVD can often be found at libraries.

And here's a blog post that demonstrates "double swaddling" with two blankets. My advice--make sure the blankets are very thin and, as with any swaddling technique, watch your baby for signs of overheating.

With a toddler to chase around, I can't hold Zoodle through all his naps like I often did with Chickie! Swaddling with the Miracle Blanket has been a lifesaver for me.