A–Z Glossary

Non-nutritive sucking

Non-nutritive sucking is sucking that provides calming or regulation without serving primarily to deliver nutrition.

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Top soothing techniques for babies

Top soothing techniques for babies

Start with a calm, structured check Before adding more stimulation, pause and consider the most likely immediate needs. Babies commonly become fussy because they are hungry, have a wet or soiled diaper, are too warm or cool, need a burp, are tired, or have become overstimulated. A quiet check reduces the chance of cycling through […]

Effective calming strategies for babies

Effective calming strategies for babies

Begin with a calm, structured check Before trying multiple soothing techniques, pause for a brief assessment. Check whether the baby may be hungry, needs a nappy change, is too hot or cold, has a wet or soiled diaper, or is showing signs of fatigue. Feeding cues can include rooting, hand-to-mouth movements, lip smacking, and increased […]

Self-soothing in babies explained

Self-soothing in babies explained

What self-soothing means in infancy Self-soothing is best understood as part of infant self-regulation: the gradual development of the capacity to modulate arousal, emotion, movement, and attention. A baby may lower arousal by sucking a hand, holding a comfort object when developmentally appropriate, looking away, flexing and relaxing the limbs, making repetitive sounds, or pausing […]