All parents are waiting with special emotion for the birth of a baby. One of the main questions is how to make the first months of a baby’s stay in this world as comfortable as possible. The answer was found by neonatologists from France, who came up with a cocoon. In this orthopedic product, enveloping the child from all sides, he feels almost the same as in the womb. Although the cocoon was originally intended for the rehabilitation of premature infants, very soon it began to be used for children with normal weight.
What can be a cocoon?
Depending on the shape and purpose, there are several types of cocoon. Here are the most requested ones:
- cocoon-nest - is an orthopedic mattress with soft sides tightened with a lace or bow;
- cocoon envelope - resembles a bag, somewhat fettering the baby’s movements, but still allowing him to freely move his legs and arms;
- cocoon-diaper - has a pocket for the legs and smelly lateral edges for the hands, which makes changing the baby more gentle;
- cocoon carrying - thanks to the presence of sides and handles it is very convenient for walking and traveling.
All cocoons are made exclusively from hypoallergenic breathing materials, and therefore do not be afraid that they can harm a growing body.
What are the advantages of a cocoon, and does it have disadvantages?
The main advantage of any cocoon over conventional mattresses, strollers and cots is that it creates a limited, but at the same time cozy and always warm space around the baby. In such conditions, the newborn is less afraid of the unfamiliar environment. But not only this contributes to the ever increasing popularity of the product among parents. Its use has a positive effect on the well-being and development of the baby:
- On the orthopedic mattress, which forms the basis of the cocoon, the back of the baby is in a slightly rounded state. Firstly, it resembles a fetal position in the womb of a mother. Secondly, it reduces muscle tone and helps the child relax. Thirdly, it prevents gas formation and colic, which often appear in newborns.
- The head of the crumbs in the cocoon — this mainly concerns the nest — turns out to be slightly raised, which prevents the occurrence of cranial deformity and widens the view.
- The sides allow you to easily flip the baby to the side - this is recommended immediately after feeding. They can become a support for the child at a time when it comes time to lay him on his tummy.
In addition, a cocoon is a great way to provide your baby with reasonable freedom, just necessary for the development of fine motor skills.
The cocoon will also help parents. In the nest, which you can take with you on a visit, install in a crib or stroller, use it for motion sickness, etc. - the baby will feel comfortable anywhere.
Is it possible to make a cocoon for newborns with your own hands?
Those wishing to purchase such an orthopedic product are often scared by the high price. And it will come in handy only in the first 3-4 months. But it’s not scary: it is quite possible to sew or bind a cocoon yourself. In the first case, an excellent nest will turn out, in the second - an envelope or a diaper. You just need to stock up on the necessary materials (cotton, synthetic winterizer, inlay, bows, balls of natural wool, etc.) and patience. And patterns and detailed instructions can always be found on the Internet.
So a cocoon is not a whim, but a great helper for parents in the first months of their baby's life.