How to Soothe a Fussy Newborn

Have you ever heard of the “5 S’s” for soothing a fussy baby? Dr Harvey Karp, the author of The Happiest Baby on the Block, has popularized this set of techniques for triggering a baby’s “calming reflex”.

A fussy, squirming, crying newborn puts up a fight while you're trying your best to provide loving care. Help calm your baby just like being inside the womb, by using the 5 S's:

Swaddling. A newborn loves to be swaddled and it turns on their calming reflex as well as helps them sleep better. They feel secure and snug just like when they were in the tight space of the womb. Only for young babies who can not roll yet.

Side lying, while you are holding them in your arms.

Shushing - either you can shush loudly or use a strong and rumbly white noise machine.

Swinging - a rhythmic motion. This could be in a rocking chair, bouncing on a yoga ball, or jiggling. Find a motion strong enough to calm the baby, but never shake the baby or be too tough.

Sucking - either at the breast or bottle, or offer a pacifier or your clean finger.

Preparing to feed baby is a common time for them to get upset and fussy, leading to frustration and anxiety for the parents. Especially when you are breastfeeding! Parents and caregivers can take turns using these techniques to give each other a break.

Combine these elements for a fussy and upset young baby (0 to 12 weeks old) and you will see the calming reflex "switch on", making your baby much more agreeable to sleeping, eating, and diaper changes!