The 5 S's are a method for soothing crying babies, developed by pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp. The 5 S's mimic the environment of their mother's womb, making babies feel very calm and safe. The calming reflex only works when it's triggered the right way — so using these techniques in the right order and combination is key.
The 5 S's:
- Swaddle — Wrapping your baby snugly mimics the secure feeling of the womb and helps prevent the startle reflex from waking them.
- Side or Stomach position — Holding baby on their side or stomach (while awake and supervised) can trigger the calming reflex. Always put baby on their back to sleep.
- Shush — A loud "shhhh" sound mimics the constant whooshing sounds baby heard in the womb. White noise machines work great for this.
- Swing — Gentle, rhythmic motion mimics the movement baby felt in the womb. Small, fast jiggles (head supported) can be especially effective.
- Suck — Sucking on a pacifier or finger activates the calming reflex and helps babies self-soothe.
Safe-sleep reminder: always place a baby on their back on a firm, flat sleep surface. Swaddling is a soothing technique—not a way to reduce SIDS risk—and should stop as soon as a baby shows signs of trying to roll. Review the AAP's swaddling guidance →
The 5 S's work best when used together, especially in the early weeks. As your baby grows, they'll need fewer of these tools and will start developing their own self-soothing abilities.