An adorable sleep position that is very common in babies and often referred to as the 'froggy position' has been explained by experts who revealed why it happens and when to expect it.
Why Do Babies Sleep with Their Bums Up?
Have you ever wondered why babies and toddlers often sleep with their bottoms sticking up in the air? If you previously thought it was an instinctive way of aiding digestion or passing wind - you'd be wrong, according to experts.
The question was previously posed in a Reddit discussion after one user asked: "Why do babies and toddlers stick their little butts up when they sleep? I'm not complaining. I think it's the cutest thing ever."
It prompted those in the know to share their thoughts, many of whom pointed out comparisons to babies' time in the womb. "I read somewhere that it may be because it's a similar position to how they were in the womb with their legs curled up, so it's familiar and comforting," one Reddit user said.
And a second person added: "It seems soothing and womb-like. Also nice for the belly. I love it! It reminds me of a little turtle with toes peeking out from the shell."
The Froggy Position Explained
Experts from Sleepout, meanwhile, explain that this sleep style is commonly known as the 'froggy position', in which a baby sleeps with their tummy and legs tucked underneath them, causing their bum to stick up.
Indeed, a main reason for this is its similarity to the posture they maintained in the womb. "Newborns and young infants often adopt this position as it feels natural and comforting to them," Sleepout advise online. "For many parents, it's a delightful reminder of the prenatal months, watching the baby in a pose reminiscent of their earlier developmental stage."
But there's more to it than just nostalgia; it also provides comfort and security. In the womb, space is restricted, and babies grow in a curled position. Once born, mimicking this position can provide comfort and a sense of security, helping them feel more relaxed and safe.
The pose has also been associated with developmental preferences, creating a womb-like environment, and flexibility, all contributing to babies' comfort whilst they are asleep. "This position naturally suits a baby's physical developmental stages," Sleepout concludes. "The tucked legs and raised buttocks ease any discomfort from developing hips and other joints."
Sleeping with their butt in the air simulates the snug, tight environment of the womb. This helps in soothing the baby and potentially enhancing the quality of their sleep. Babies are extremely flexible, and curling up in this position is comfortable and easy for them to maintain during sleep.
Safety Warning for Parents
Parents with children under one should be careful about this sleeping pose, however, according to Sleep Advisor. "When a baby sleeps with their butt in the air, they are also sleeping on their front, which can be dangerous because it can increase their risk of SIDS [Sudden Infant Death Syndrome]," they said. "While a baby's risk of SIDS does decrease around eight months old, caregivers are encouraged to practice safe sleep habits until they reach one year old."
