Question: Grandma says putting a bean sprout husk pillow over our newborn’s chest will help her sleep better. Is this true?

Answer: Your baby has only just been removed from a very cosy environment that held her snugly all around, shielding her from bright lights and loud noises. As a result, she is highly sensitive to her new environment.

Bean sprout husk pillows have traditionally been used in Asia as a means of soothing babies. They are also believed to be “cooling”. I’m afraid I can’t find any scientific evidence for this, but traditional methods are often known to be valuable.

A more scientifically proven method is to swaddle your little one in a light cotton blanket. This prevents her arms and legs from shooting out when she jumps, thereby mimicking the closely confined environment of a mother’s womb. Please be careful to keep any pillow or plush toy in the cot, well away from her head, to avoid the risk of suffocation.