This blog was medically reviewed by Dr. Gigi Chawla, chief of general pediatrics at Children’s Minnesota.
As a new parent, you may wonder how to soothe and calm your newborn to sleep. Have you ever heard of the method called the “5 S’s” for a baby? This method was developed by Dr. Harvey Karp to help soothe crying babies and help them sleep better.
The 5 S’s for newborns originated from Dr. Karp’s book, “The Happiest Baby on the Block.” In this blog, you will learn about the five different ways to soothe and comfort your baby: swaddling, side or stomach position, shushing, swinging and sucking.
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Why the 5 S’s matter
The five S’s help babies feel comfortable by copying the safe and cozy feeling of the womb. They are especially helpful during the 4th trimester, the first three months after birth, during postpartum, or if the baby has colic. Using these techniques, parents and caregivers can make a calm place that helps babies feel safe.
Understanding the 5 S’s to soothe a fussy baby
We’re here to help you understand the 5 S’s to help you learn how to soothe a fussy baby. These infant soothing techniques are designed to mimic the comforting environment of the womb. These techniques work together to soothe and settle even the fussiest of babies and help stop crying. Using these methods, anyone trying to comfort a baby can help them feel more at ease and promote better sleep.
Learn what to expect during the fourth trimester and the initial postpartum period for your recovery and your baby’s health.
1. Swaddle
New parents often wonder how to soothe a newborn to sleep, swaddling is one option. Swaddling your baby means wrapping a baby snugly in a blanket to mimic the secure feeling of the womb. This helps calm babies by preventing their startle reflex from waking them up. Swaddling can help babies feel secure and promote longer, more restful sleep.
2. Side or stomach position
You may be wondering how to calm a newborn; one way is holding a baby on their side or stomach to help them feel calm and less fussy. To use this technique, hold the baby on their side or stomach, supporting their head and neck.
Remember, babies should always sleep on their backs to be safe and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). By using the side or stomach position for soothing and then transitioning the baby to their back for sleep, parents can help their baby feel calm and safe.
3. Sushing
Shushing means making a “shhh” sound near the baby’s ear, like the sounds they heard in the womb. This technique can be very soothing for infants as it helps to block out other noises and create a calming environment.
4. Swing
Swinging means using gentle, rhythmic motion to soothe a baby. This technique is effective because it once again mimics the movement they felt in the womb.
There are many ways to use swinging to soothe a baby, including rocking them in your arms or while babywearing, using a baby swing or gently bouncing them on your knee. The key is to use slow, gentle movements that help the baby feel secure and relaxed. Swinging can be a powerful tool for calming a fussy baby and promoting better sleep.
5. Suck
Sucking is a comfort tool for babies. Using a pacifier, bottle or breastfeeding can help to soothe and calm a baby. Sucking helps to release endorphins, which are hormones your body releases to relieve pain or stress. And, once a baby’s stress is less, it’s easier for them to relax.
Incorporating sucking into your soothing routine can help to provide comfort and security for your baby. Whether you use a pacifier, bottle or breastfeeding, allowing your baby to suck can be a powerful way to help them feel calm and content.
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If the 5 S’s aren’t working
Most importantly, your baby should be well-fed and have a clean diaper before trying the 5 S’s. But, even with the right techniques, some babies might still struggle to settle.
Several reasons may be why the 5 S’s for babies might not be working. If your baby is crying and you continue to have difficulty soothing your baby, it may be helpful to reach out to your pediatrician or provider for advice and support. Here are some additional soothing methods to try:
- Check for discomfort: Ensure your baby has a clean diaper and is not experiencing any discomfort.
- Create a calming environment: Do your best to create a soothing environment that promotes sleep. But remember that some infants sleep best when there is activity around them, so don’t be afraid to try turning on the lights or TV as if it is daytime. Or, try skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care.
- Talk to your provider: If the 5 S’s aren’t working, reach out to your provider for additional support and information.
The Mother Baby Center: holistic care from pregnancy through postpartum
The Mother Baby Center is here for you through every stage of pregnancy and postpartum. We hope this blog has helped you understand the 5 S’s of soothing and comforting a baby, and provided you with some options to try! Learn more about the newborn care offered at The Mother Baby Center from our nurseries to newborn screenings and more.
If the 5 S’s aren’t working for you and your family, find a provider to help, or reach out to your current provider for support.