DR. HARVEY KARP AND THE 5S RULE

Dr. Harvey Karp’s book The Happiest Baby on the Block helps mothers break free from the panic and anxiety club. By analyzing the first three months in detail, Dr. Karp states that these months can be passed smoothly and enjoyably using the 5S rule (the five "S"s are all terms starting with the letter S in English). Applying these five fundamental principles from the book, which also boosts a mother’s self-confidence and allows her to empathize with her baby, will be effective during this period.

In his book, Dr. Karp says, “Your newborn is much more like a fetus than a child in many ways. They spend most of their time sleeping and feeding. If your birth could be delayed by three months, your baby would be born with the ability to smile, make sounds, and respond. Newborns show signs that they are ready for the world, but they are still so immature in their first three months that, if they could return to the safety of the womb when feeling anxious, they would be very happy.”

Here are the 5 rules that will help your baby feel like they are still in the womb and make this period more relaxing and enjoyable for you:

1. Swaddling
   The feeling of being fully wrapped up; this is essentially doing what people used to do. Despite various myths and rumors about swaddling, Dr. Karp says it’s very effective, as babies feel secure like they did in the womb, which makes them calmer.
2. Side or Stomach Position
   The Position Where Your Baby Feels Best; it is well-known that babies are vulnerable when lying on their backs, as they could choke on their saliva. Aside from this, Dr. Karp believes that the best position for babies to be in is either on their side or stomach.
3. Shh!
   The Sound That Soothes Your Baby Most; this is the sound that mothers instinctively use, and it really works. Dr. Karp explains that this sound helps take away your baby’s worries, making them feel safe and secure with you.
4. Swinging
   Rhythmic Swinging Based on Your Baby’s Needs; despite being a challenge in some periods, Dr. Karp advocates for gentle rocking, believing it’s one of the best ways to calm the baby and help them transition into a peaceful sleep.
5. Sucking
   The Pleasure Part; Dr. Karp believes that sucking, especially in close contact with the mother, is the most peaceful place for a baby in the world, allowing them to feel great comfort and joy.

All of these methods were practices our elders used and advised us to do, which, unfortunately, modern life has made us forget.

The book also offers a new perspective on colicky cries, explaining that they are not caused by gas pains, as commonly believed, but rather from the challenges babies face in adapting to the new life outside the womb. This approach alleviates the anxiety of mothers and offers a comforting perspective to readers.