How to Use a Boppie Pillow

The "Boppie" pillow was created by a new mother when her baby started daycare and she was asked to bring a pillow for the baby's support when not sleeping. She sewed a crescent shaped pillow, and her design worked so well that soon other mothers were duplicating it. Eventually, she offered the pillows for sale and began to market them. In a few short years, these pillows have become a valuable addition to the products that make parents' lives a little easier. Since new parents are likely to get one of these as a gift, it's a good idea to read some pointers on the boppie's use.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Sleep with the pillow while pregnant. Because it is large, with an elongated "C" shape, you can position it between your legs to help your back and stomach muscles.

2. Feed the baby using the pillow. Put the pillow around your waist and rest your elbow on top. It will help you support the baby's head, relieving you of stress on your shoulders and neck.

3. Support the baby. There are six months or so before your baby can sit, but after a month or so, he or she will want to look around a little. The pillow keeps your baby from tipping over (and if he or she does tip slightly, it provides a cushion).

4. Put your baby on her tummy. Babies love to be on their stomachs, but it's hard for them to look around. Once they are strong enough to lift their necks, they love the support of a pillow under their chest so they can see what's going on around them.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't leave your baby unattended with the boppie pillow for support on a counter or changing table. Make sure you're aware of how much movement your baby is capable of and constantly adjust your precautions. Babies change rapidly, and you will have to reassess safety requirements daily.

Resources

• Boppie pillow