Newborn Tip – The 5 S’s to help soothe a baby I Marshville Newborn Photographer I Knowles Photography

The 5 S’s of Baby Soothing

These imitate the womb. There are lots of variations out there (ie: riding in a car, turning on a vacuum or blow dyer, etc). These are ones that I used on my own two little ones when they were babies.

1 – SWADDLE

This recreates what I like to call “womb packaging”. Babies generally respond better or faster to the other 4 S’s. The baby might still be fussy but swaddle through the cry.

2 -SIDE LYING/STOMACH

Back is best for sleeping. Some babies may have gas and during the fussy period will find relief on their side or stomach. If they are swaddled side lying is better for this S.

3 – SHUSH

When you make a loud and long “SHUSH” sound it sounds very similar to the sounds of blood flow the baby heard in the womb. A white noise machine or app is a great alternative when you need something portable.

4 – SWING/SWAY

This helps mimic the motions of in womb movement. When you were pregnant they would be moving when you were walking, going up steps, or just your daily routines. You do not want to shake the baby, but instead fast tiny movements similar to small vibrations.

5 – SUCK

This is a natural reflex for babies. It is a built in calming mechanism for them. There are a long debate on whether or not to use a paci or not, but it is still a good resource to have in case needed during those super fussy moments. As well as most photographers will recommend bringing one to a newborn session in case needed during transitional posing since they are being messed with more and moved than during their typical sleep. Personally I recommend the soothies for pacifiers as you can easily turn them slowly while in the baby’s mouth to break the suction and remove from the baby’s mouth with minimal disturbance.

A lot of photographers will implement these and do not even realize they are. I’d love to capture your little one for their maternity & newborn sessions. Click contact us and lets chat more on planning your sessions. I can’t wait to anchor your family’s memories with capturing these memories for you.

Amanda @ Knowles Photography