MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

Here are 5 ways to activate your baby’s calming reflex so they can relax and feel happy again: Activating the CALMING REFLEX

Swaddling Wrapping your baby up like a soft burrito recreates the comfort and security they experienced while floating in the close confines of the womb. See page 35 for how to swaddle. Shushing Whispering soft “sshhh” sounds or turning on continuous, low-pitched

sounds (white noise) reminds your baby of listening to your heartbeat and blood flow in the womb.

CALMING & COMFORTING There is increasing evidence that babies have an instinctive calming reflex that helps them relax. This neurological response likely developed months before their birth in response to the rhythmic movements and repetitive sounds they experienced in the womb. Parents around the world have recognized that recreating some of these womb-like sensations can help trigger their baby’s calming reflex and make it easier for them to relax, settle down, stop crying, and even go to sleep. Examples include taking your baby on a long car ride, turning on the clothes dryer or vacuum cleaner, or running tap water to create “ white noise .” What may also help • Moving your baby to a quiet, semi-darkened room • Being calm and reassuring as you gently stroke them • Holding your baby skin-to-skin on your bare chest • Taking a walk or stroller ride outside (change of scenery) • Holding your baby’s hands together at their chest level • Embracing your baby in your arms (or baby sling) and swaying When nothing works Sometimes nothing you do will stop your baby’s crying. This is normal. If you’ve met their basic needs (clean diaper, fed, burped, dressed comfortably, held), it might be time to take a break and give yourself a little time to regain your composure. What to do • Take a couple of deep breaths and count to 10 • Put your baby on their back in the crib and walk away • Ask a friend or family member to take over for a while • Go to another room or outside for some fresh air • Try to relax and remember this is normal baby behavior

Sucking Sucking makes babies happy. It also lowers their heart rate, blood pressure, and stress level. Offer your baby your breast, finger,

or (if breastfeeding is going well) a pacifier.

Swinging Supporting your baby’s head and neck, use small, fast movements to gently jiggle your baby about an inch in either direction. Once your baby is calm, rocking can help them stay relaxed. Side/Stomach Position Holding your baby on their side, or stomach, or even over your shoulder can help soothe and calm them.

But always place your baby on their back to nap or sleep!

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care