Pattern for baby positioning aids we donate – ‘neonatal nests’

The pattern for a neonatal positioning aid is very simple.  It’s basically a tube with an elastic at one end to catch the other end in to make a circle. The baby nest provides a boundary for developing neonates and promotes containment, flexion, correct positioning and musculoskeletal development.

From selvedge to selvedge cut a 6″ wide strip for a small size diameter and an 8″ wide strip for a larger size diameter. Sew it into a tube, stuff it, and sew it closed. Place an elastic loop about 6″ down from the top on one end (I sew it into the seam so it doesn’t rip out). The elastic should be large enough for both ends of the tube to go through.

Form a circle with the tube putting the one end of the tube into the elastic on the other end, making sure that both ends are inside the elastic for stability.

Place a receiving blanket over the entire tube and place baby down in the center – like you would if you were taking baby to the swimming pool and were going to float him in an inner tube.

This positioning aid can also be used by doubling the tube up and placing behind baby to keep him on his side. Babies should not be placed on their stomach, ever, according to recent statistics from the SIDS Council, and laying baby on his back is best unless dealing with reflux problems.

A tube is a tube – you really can’t improve on that   We have made thousands of these, the hospitals love them and use them as rewards for mothers to take Lamaze and prenatal classes.  They are fun to make and your children’s group or our own kids might like to make them and donate them to your local hospital or crisis center.

Tip for stuffing.  Cut out the ends of a tin can with a can opener so you have a tube.  Put the fabric tube you have made down through the middle of the can and pull the fabric opening over the edge of the can.  Stuff the fabric tube, pulling the tin can further and further down it as you go until you are at the end. The tin can provides stability while you are stuff the nest

Carol

Info@ReliefShare.org