One day, you’ll check on your sleeping baby and see that your baby sleeps with their butt in the air. You might wonder if this is safe or normal, plus it’s beyond adorable.
Most babies do this. This position is called the frog position, and you might recognize it because babies naturally curl into it when they’re newborns. Newborn babies pull their legs up to their chest when they’re first born because this is how they spend their life in the womb.
This adorable sleeping pose is just a phase, so take all the pictures you can while it lasts. Here’s why your baby loves to sleep with his bum in the air.
Is It Normal for Babies to Sleep on Their Knees?
The first time you see your baby sleep on his knees, you might wonder if it’s normal or if you need to be concerned. It’s pretty normal for babies to sleep in this adorable position, and as long as your baby can roll over, it’s safe for them to do so.
You might be surprised to learn that there are real, scientific reasons why babies sleep with their butts in the air. It’s not dangerous; instead, the reason for this sleeping position makes it even cuter.
The frog position tends to be a baby’s favorite sleeping position once they’re between four to six months old, and it generally lasts until they’re 12-18 months old.
So, if your toddler sleeps like a frog, it’s entirely normal, and they’ll eventually grow out of it. You’ll miss seeing their little bum up in the air when they do.
Why Do Babies Sleep with Their Bum in the Air?
Babies sleep in the frog position with their legs curled under them for a reason. This is universal; babies everywhere love to sleep in this position, so doctors knew why your baby sleeps in a frog position.
Here are the four reasons your baby curls up like a frog when sleeping.
Reminds Them of the Womb
P.C.: Flickr!
Take a look at your baby in this position. When your baby curls his knees up to his chest, it feels like he’s in the womb, and babies love being in the womb. Depending on your baby’s age, he might have spent more time in your womb than in the real world, so it’s no wonder he wants to curl up like this when dozing off.
Babies don’t remember the time in the womb, but muscle memory is real. They spent nine months in your womb, so their body feels comfortable in this position. Everyone has different positions that feel natural and comfortable to them; the frog position is that for babies.
Learning How to Crawl
Once your baby gets older, he might still sleep with his butt in the air, and at this point, his muscles are developing while the ligaments lengthen and loosen. Older infants stretch out into positions that adults find more comfortable as well.
That takes time, but as your baby gets ready to learn how to crawl, you might see your baby in his crib on his belly. Their bodies are growing and getting ready for growth spurts in development. Your baby might be on the fast track to crawling, so be prepared!
Comfortable
Truth be told, even if you think the frog position isn’t comfortable for adults, yoga enthusiasts would argue. This pose is the “child’s pose,” and it benefits your brain and body. It helps your body calm and center itself; it’s one of the best yoga poses for stress relief.
Your baby doesn’t understand the scientific benefits, but he knows that his body has less tension when he lies in this position. It encourages oxygen and blood circulation, helping his body feel restored and rejuvenated. When your baby is in this position, he feels good, and babies identify what makes them feel relaxed and content.
It Feels Like Being Held
Babies love to be cuddled and rocked to sleep – who doesn’t? If this is your baby’s favorite way to sleep, you might find them with their butt in the air because it reminds them of being held. When you hold your baby to sleep, their legs press into their stomach slightly, and they have pressure on their bodies. They love this!
Should I Turn My Baby onto Their Back?
You don’t need to turn your baby onto his back if your baby rolled over onto his belly by himself. Babies eventually get strong enough to turn onto their sides or tummies while sleeping, which is entirely normal. Chances are, if you move your baby onto his back, he will wake up; no parent wants to disturb their baby’s sleep!
However, it’s dangerous for parents to place their babies on their bellies to sleep. Sleeping on their backs is the safest way for infants to sleep; it dramatically reduces the risk of SIDS.
How to Keep Your Baby Safe if They Roll on Their Tummy to Sleep
Once your baby rolls into this sleeping position, it means they’re safe to do so, but parents must ensure their child is always safe while sleeping.
No Pillows or Stuffed Animals
Pillows are a big no-no until your child is around two years old; they pose a serious suffocation risk. The same goes for stuffed animals. They might be cute, but they’re dangerous. Keep your baby’s crib empty.
No Blankets – Stick to Sleep Sacks
An empty crib means no blankets as well. You want to keep your baby warm, but safety is essential. The best solution is to use a sleep sack. These cover your baby’s torso and legs but pose no suffocation risks.
Always make sure you use tightly fitted sheets. Loose sheets are also dangerous to babies; they increase the risk of suffocation. Make sure the sheets you pick fit your baby’s crib well.
Final Thoughts
If you wonder why your baby sleeps with their butt in the air, the answer is simple – it reminds your baby of being in the womb. This comfortable, relaxing position makes your baby feel like he is being held. As long as your baby rolls over independently, this is a safe sleeping position for your baby.
Hey, this is Linda. My biggest accomplishment in life is being a mother of four children. Their current ages range from almost ten years old down to 20 months old.
I’m passionate about writing parenting articles because I understand so well all of the problems and trials you face as a parent. From breastfeeding woes to budgeting problems and behavior problems, along with everything in between, chances are I’ve faced it over the last ten years. Read more about Linda here.
