During the first few weeks your newborns internal thermostat is not completely functioning right there for they can become too hot or too cold. Wrapping or swaddling your baby can keep your baby at the correct temperature as well as keeping them feeling secure, thus allowing them to sleep well.
Swaddling your baby is simply wrapping your baby snugly in a blanket for warmth and security.
Swaddling your baby can reduce the amount your baby is disrupted due to their own startled reflex and will assist in maintaining warmth for your newborn during their first few days until their temperature is able to calculate itself to the correct temperature. Swaddling your baby is also important as it can help to calm them.
When you have your newborn, nurses at the hospital will more than likely show you how to swaddle your baby before you leave to go home. They emphasis the importance of swaddling to help your baby sleep better during naps and especially at night. If your baby is sleeping then so will you and your family.
Another great reason to swaddle your baby is that it has been known to help reduce some of the risks associated with SIDS. Swaddling prevents babies from rolling on their tummy during sleep, helps with maintaining a healthy temperature and by swaddling your baby the blanket is secure and unable to cover their faces.
During the first month of your newborns life when they tend to sleep most of their day and are not very active having your baby swaddled will make them fell snug and secure like in their mother