The 5 S's to Settle Your Screaming Spawn

Okay, okay, I am NOT a mothering guru... I'm more of a 'throw spaghetti at the wall and see what sticks' kind of mum. BUT, if I find something that works, I kinda feel the need to share.

If you haven't heard of the 5 S's then buckle up...

So, we've all been there. Baby is crying, they're fed, they're clean, they're wearing organic cotton from Peru, but STILL, they're howling. Realistically, they're probably over-tired and you need the 5 S's.

SWADDLE: Tuck those little arms in, wrap them up nice and snug. Some swear by sleeping bags, others like it old school with a muslin, just make sure their arms are down by their side or crossed over their chest.

SIDE OR STOMACH POSITION: Hold your baby in your arms either on their side or like a sloth on a branch (is that another S?) on their stomach. SAFETY NOTE: This is just while you're holding them, when it comes time to placing them in their cot, it's recommended they sleep on their backs.

SHUSH: You Shhhh and Shhh like you've never Shhhhh'd before. Just keep Shushing. If they scream louder, you Shush louder. Your lungs are bigger than theirs, you can win this battle... or alternatively, get some white noise happening or a good old vacuum cleaner or kettle.

SWING: Swing, sway, rock from side to side. You are now a boat, gently bobbing out to sea. Someone once gave me the genius idea of having a Swiss ball in the nursery. One good bounce as you sit on it and you just go go go!

SUCK: Turn that pinky finger upside down and let them suck suck suck. A dummy is sometimes preferred, or a bottle, or if our Boob Balm is making those nipples of yours gold star standard, you can slip them a nip. Whatever you choose, the act of sucking calms them, not to mention keeps their mouths busy to stop the screaming.

Okay, give that all a try. And if you're STILL struggling to get that baby down, one of the best investments I EVER made with my first, was to get a sleep consultant to come to my house. 3 hours and this lady changed my world. Anyone who wants a recommendation for a guru of a sleep consultant, just email me and I'll send you her details.

Best of luck, Mamas!

Pippa - Founder of Bubs and Boobs Co