Dr. Karp’s Happiest Baby On The Block Method

 

One of the most successful ways parents have been able to help their babies that have colic is with the Happiest Baby On The Block method. This method was designed by Dr. Harvey Karp, and it relies on a series of basic concepts that will help your baby.

The Happiest Baby On The Block combines modern science with an understanding of how many cultures have appraoched colic. The whole point is to create a calming reflex in your colicky baby.

Here are the five principles in the Happiest Baby On The Block method:

Swaddling refers to a way to wrap a baby in a blanket such that the baby has continual touching, and can resemble the feeling that the baby had when he or she was in the womb. You can use a regular blanket to swaddle, or you can use a specially designed swaddling blanket or safety blanket.

Side/Stomach position refers to the idea that, while holding your baby, you should hold him or her on the left side to help with digestion. Alternatively, you can hold him or her on the stomach to help provide reassurance. Make certain, however, to reduce the risks of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), that you place your baby on his or her back to sleep.

Shushing refers to shushing sounds. Shushing sounds typically take the form of white noise, such as with a vacuum or a fan. You can use a white noise CD for this purpose.

Swinging, which is relatively self-explanatory, suggests that swinging will help your baby feel the sort of motion that he or she felt in the womb. Rocking or car rides are good ways to create this swinging.

Finally, a baby needs to suck. This can happen by feeding, such as with a bottle or breastfeeding, or using a pacifier.

There are a number of products to go along with the Happiest Baby On The Block that you should consider if your baby has colic.