Tips for Soothing a Fussy Baby: The 5 S’s (Plus My Mom-Approved Bonus!)
If you’re in the newborn stage, first of all—deep breath. You’re doing amazing. Those early weeks are often less about routines and more about pure survival mode. And when your baby is fussy at 2 am, it can feel like nothing is working. You’ve rocked, bounced, and shushed until your arms ache, and you’ve already Googled “why won’t my newborn sleep?” more times than you care to admit. Trust me, you are not alone in this.
The good news? There are simple, gentle tricks that can make a world of difference. Pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp introduced us to the magic of the 5 S’s, which mimic the cozy, comforting womb your baby just left. And because moms always have one or two tricks up their sleeves, I’m sharing my favorite bonus “S” that has saved me—and countless other families—time and time again.
Here are the 6 S’s to help calm your baby, ease fussiness, and give you a little more peace of mind.
1. Swaddle
Your baby spent nine months in the safest, coziest little home, so suddenly being in this big, open world can feel overwhelming. A snug swaddle recreates that familiar womb-like comfort and helps keep the startle reflex from waking them every few minutes.
Mom Tip: Don’t stress about perfect swaddling folds—Velcro and zip-up swaddles are your best friend at 3 am.
2. Side or Stomach Position (for soothing only!)
While back is always best for safe sleep, soothing on the side or stomach can help calm newborn jitters. Chest-to-chest snuggles, tummy across your lap, or even the football hold can work wonders. Just be sure baby goes back on their back once it’s time to sleep.
3. Shhh-ing
Did you know the womb is actually pretty noisy? Between your heartbeat, digestion, and blood flow, babies are used to a constant soundtrack. That’s why silence can feel unsettling to them.
Mom Tip: White noise machines (deep “whooshing” sounds) can be magic—but your own voice works too. A strong “shhh” right by their ear is often more soothing than a whisper, and bonus—it helps keep you awake while you rock.
4. Swinging (or rocking counts!)
Your baby spent months floating around with your every move, so it makes sense that motion feels comforting. Gentle rocking, swaying, or rhythmic bouncing all help mimic that familiar rhythm.
Mom Tip: Try combining swaddling, shushing, and rocking together for the ultimate soothing combo.
5. Sucking
Pacifier, bottle, or breast—babies are born knowing how to soothe themselves through sucking. It’s one of the easiest and most natural ways for them to calm down.
Mom Tip: If the pacifier keeps falling out, gently hold it until your baby’s suction gets stronger. A little “paci tug-of-war” also works—when you gently tug, your baby will instinctively suck harder to keep it in.
6. Bonus “S”: The Eyebrow Stroke
This one is pure mom magic. Gently stroking your baby’s eyebrows or forehead often triggers a natural reflex to close their eyes and relax.
✨ Mom Tip: Lightly trace from the inside of the brow outward, or smooth your finger from forehead to nose. It’s such a simple trick, but you’ll be amazed at how quickly it works.
Putting It All Together
Here’s the real secret—you don’t have to use these soothing tools one at a time. Layer them! Swaddle + shush + swing? A power combo. Pacifier + eyebrow stroke? Sleepy magic. The goal is to recreate the womb so your baby feels safe, calm, and comforted. And the bonus? You’ll feel more confident during those tough fussy moments because you’ll have a full toolkit of tricks to try.
Final Thoughts
Mama, I know how hard those late nights can feel—especially when you’re tired, doubting yourself, and wondering if you’re doing it “right.” The truth is, you are doing it right. Babies cry, fuss, and need comfort—and the fact that you’re here searching for gentle ways to soothe your little one already makes you an incredible mom.
If you’re still feeling overwhelmed or like your baby just isn’t responding to these tricks, please remember—you don’t have to do this alone. I’d love to walk alongside you with gentle, realistic strategies that fit your baby and your family. You can book a 1:1 consult or SOS consult here for personalized guidance, explore my self-paced courses, or grab one of my step-by-step sleep guides. Because every family deserves rest—and yes, mama, that includes you too. 💛
With Love,
Selina Truax
Creator and Head Sleep Coach
