Swaddling & the 5 S's

Why Newborns Need Help Calming

Newborns are born with an immature nervous system. They cannot regulate their own state of arousal, which means once they start crying, they often cannot stop on their own. Swaddling and the 5 S's, developed by pediatrician Harvey Karp, recreate the conditions of the womb and activate the baby's calming reflex. These techniques are most effective for babies under 3 months.

Swaddling: The First S

Swaddling is the practice of wrapping the baby snugly in a blanket with the arms contained. It prevents the Moro (startle) reflex from waking the baby, provides a sense of security, and helps the baby stay calm during sleep. A proper swaddle is snug around the arms but loose around the hips and legs to allow natural hip movement. The baby should be placed on their back to sleep, never on their stomach or side. Swaddling should stop once the baby shows signs of rolling over, usually around 2 months.

How to Swaddle

The Full 5 S's

Swaddle is the foundation. If swaddling alone does not calm the baby, add the remaining four S's in order. Each S builds on the one before it.

Using the 5 S's Together

The 5 S's work best when used in combination and with increasing intensity. If the baby is mildly fussy, start with swaddle and shush. If the baby is crying hard, use all five at full intensity, then gradually reduce each S as the baby calms. The order matters: swaddle first, then side, then shush, then swing, then suck. When the baby settles, reduce the intensity of swing and shush before removing them entirely.

Safety Notes

Resources

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends back-sleeping and safe swaddling practices. Visit HealthyChildren.org for video guides on swaddling and safe sleep. The CDC also provides safe sleep guidelines for reducing the risk of SIDS.