All babies cry — it’s how they communicate their needs. But when crying becomes constant, especially during the late afternoon and evening “witching hours,” it can leave parents feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. Sleep deprivation, stress, and ongoing fussiness can also increase the risk of postpartum depression in both mothers and fathers.
The good news? The 5 S’s method is a simple, effective technique that helps calm newborns by recreating the comforting sensations of the womb. When used correctly and together, these five steps activate a baby’s natural calming reflex, helping reduce crying, ease colic symptoms, and improve newborn sleep.
What Are the 5 S’s?
The 5 S’s are five soothing techniques designed to mimic the secure, rhythmic environment babies experienced before birth.
1. Swaddle
Swaddling wraps your baby snugly to recreate the secure feeling of the womb. It helps reduce the startle reflex, prevents flailing arms from waking baby, and promotes longer, better sleep. Ensure the arms are snug while allowing hips to remain loose and flexed. Stop swaddling once your baby can roll over.
2. Side or Stomach Position (For Soothing Only)
Holding your baby on their side or tummy can quickly calm crying. However, always place your baby on their back for safe sleep. The side or stomach position is only for soothing while you are awake and holding them.
3. Shush (White Noise)
The womb is surprisingly noisy. Babies are comforted by steady, consistent sounds. Using white noise, a fan, or a baby sound machine can help settle fussiness and support better sleep. Silence is often less comforting than gentle background noise.
4. Swing (Gentle Rhythmic Movement)
Babies are used to constant movement in the womb. Gentle rocking or small, quick rhythmic motions can calm crying and help baby relax. Always keep movements controlled and gentle — never shake a baby.
5. Suck
Sucking naturally lowers a baby’s heart rate and stress levels. Breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or a pacifier (once breastfeeding is well established) can provide powerful comfort and help babies fall asleep faster.
Why the 5 S’s Work
Human babies are often described as being born before they are fully developed — sometimes called the “fourth trimester.” Because of this, newborns still crave the sensations of the womb. The 5 S’s recreate those sensations and trigger a neurological calming response.
When used together, parents often notice:
- Reduced colic symptoms
- Less intense crying episodes
- Faster sleep onset
- Longer stretches of sleep
- Lower stress levels for parents
For South African families managing busy households without extended support, mastering these soothing techniques can make a significant difference.
When to Seek Help
If your baby continues to cry excessively despite trying the 5 S’s, check for common causes such as hunger, wind, a wet nappy, or overstimulation. If crying seems unusual or persistent, consult your paediatrician to rule out reflux, food intolerance, or infection.