Overview
Dr. Harvey Karp, a pediatrician, explains his five-step method to quickly soothe crying babies, emphasizing correct technique and dispelling common myths about infant behavior.
The Five S's for Calming Babies
- Swaddling: Wrap the baby tightly using the “doo-doo wrap” technique for secure containment.
- Side/Stomach Position: Positioning the baby on their side or stomach can trigger their calming reflex.
- Shushing: Make a loud, rhythmic “shush” sound, matching or exceeding the baby's cry volume.
- Swinging: Use gentle, small jiggling motions to calm the baby; avoid large or rough movements.
- Sucking: Offer a pacifier, finger, or breast to activate the baby's calming reflex through sucking.
Key Points on Calming Techniques
- Proper technique is essential; incorrect application may worsen crying.
- The “calming reflex” is comparable to a physical reflex and must be triggered precisely.
- These methods can be applied in various settings—lap, bassinet, swing, or car seat.
- If the five S's do not work despite proper technique, parents should consult a pediatrician.
Common Myths About Infant Crying
- Myth: Babies are ready for the world after nine months; in reality, newborns act like “fetuses” for the first two to three months.
- Myth: Parents instinctively know how to calm their baby; it requires learning and practice.
- Myth: Persistent crying is mainly due to gas; real pain does not resolve with motion or noise, so gas is rarely the ongoing issue.
Environmental Factors and Baby Adaptation
- Babies are used to noisy environments in the womb, so silence after birth can be unsettling.
- Rhythmic, loud sounds at home (like white noise or music) can aid in comforting babies.
Impact of Crying on Parents
- Chronic infant crying can contribute to parental depression and increase the risk of shaken baby syndrome.
- Effective soothing techniques can mitigate stress and prevent negative outcomes.
Decisions
- Distribute educational video: All audience members received Dr. Karp’s instructional video to learn these techniques.
Action Items
- TBD – Parents: Watch the instructional video to master the five S's.