How to Calm Your Crying Baby

FitPregnancy

We know, we know - sometimes they just won't stop crying. We've got tips, and a video with detailed instructions, here.

Pediatrician Harvey N. Karp tells parents to use his "Five S's"-which simulate the womb's environment-to turn on an infant's calming reflex and help her sleep longer. Tip: Practice with a doll or sleeping baby.

1. Swaddling Wrap the baby securely in a blanket with her arms tucked inside so she can't flail.
2. Side/stomach position Hold the baby snugly in your arms on her left side or stomach.
3. Shushing sounds Use white-noise machines, humidifiers, fans, vacuums, etc. The shushing should be as loud as the baby's crying.
4. Swinging Try rocking, car rides or infant swings.
5. Sucking Let your baby nurse, take a bottle of breast milk or formula, or suck on your finger or a pacifier.

To see Dr. Karp's 5 S's in action, check out his video on FitPregnancy.com.