Sensory-Based Calming Strategies for Infants

Crying in infants is a normal physiological response; however, prolonged crying can produce a great deal of frustration and stress for new parents and has been found to be related to shaken baby syndrome. Offering parents a range of calming options for their infants gives them a sense of control and connection to the infant. The process of calming their crying baby boosts parents' confidence, creates a growing sense of trust within the infant, and sets the foundation for establishing a positive parent-infant relationship. This article explores sensory-based calming techniques and provides resources for parents as well as the childbirth professional.