How to survive the newborn witching hour
If you've found yourself staring down the barrel of the "witching hour" with your baby, you're not alone. That time in the evening, when it feels like all heck breaks loose, is a common challenge for many parents. But fear not, because we're diving into what the witching hour is all about and some tips to survive it with your sanity intact.
What is the Witching Hour, Anyway?
The "witching hour" is what we call that time in the evenings when newborns seem to become more unsettled, sometimes crying for what feels like hours on end 😰. It usually begins around weeks 2-3 after your baby's due date, reaches its peak around 6 weeks, and then comes to an end around the 3-4 month mark or so.
The witching hour typically kicks in around 5 p.m. and can last until around 11 p.m. It's like a perfect storm of tiredness, hunger (for both baby and parents), and general crankiness. Babies might cry more during this time, seem harder to soothe, and just generally be more difficult to settle down.
Why Does it Happen?
Now, you might wonder, " Why does this happen?" Well, there are many reasons:
Overstimulation: Throughout the day, your little one takes in a lot of new sights, sounds, and experiences. By the time evening rolls around, they might just be overloaded and need some extra dose of love and care to help ease their fussiness or discomfort.
Tiredness: This might seem counterintuitive, but an overtired baby can actually have a harder time settling down. The witching hour might be their way of saying, "Hey, I'm exhausted, but I don't know how to wind down!"
Developmental Milestones: Babies go through rapid growth and development, and this can lead to fussiness. They're learning so much every day, which sometimes means a little extra fussiness in the evening.
Stomach discomfort: your little one might build up some gas throughout the day. Your baby’s digestive system is still developing, and it'll sort itself out with time. Just offer them comfort, knowing this phase will pass.
Busy environment: Evenings at home can get pretty hectic. It's just the way things go... dinner's cooking, older kids are back from school, the TV's on, someone's clattering dishes in the kitchen... for a tiny baby who craves peace, quiet, and comfort, this can all be a bit much.
Surviving the Witching Hour: Tips and Tricks
Alright, now let's talk about how to survive it! Here are some tried-and-true tips from seasoned parents:
Cluster Feeding: If your baby seems to want to nurse or bottle-feed constantly during the witching hour, go with it. Cluster feeding, where they feed more frequently in a shorter period, is normal and can help boost your milk supply (if breastfeeding) and comfort your little one.
White Noise: shushing or using white noise can be very soothing for newborn babies. The soothing sounds can help drown out background noise and lull your baby into a peaceful state.
Give babywearing a go: It offers closeness, a gentle rocking motion, and a snug spot for napping.
Change of Scenery: Sometimes a change of scenery is all it takes. If you're usually indoors, try going for a gentle stroll outside (weather permitting, of course). Fresh air can work wonders for both you and your baby.
Team Up: If you have a partner or support person around, tag team during the witching hour. Taking turns can give each of you a much-needed break and some time to recharge.
Bath time: a nice warm bath and soothing baby massages can work wonders.
Reduce stimulation: set up a cozy space in your home where you can go with your baby when they start to feel unsettled. Keep this space tidy and free of screens, dim the lights, and turn on soothing white noise. These simple adjustments to their environment can have a big impact.
Help with wind. if you suspect wind is the problem, try tummy massages or bicycle legs.
Try some skin-to-skin time: It can help reduce crying, strengthen the bond between parent and baby, and stabilize the little one's vitals. Plus, it releases stress-reducing hormones.
Self-Care: Remember to take care of yourself. It's easy to get caught up in soothing your baby, but you're important too. Take a few deep breaths, grab a snack, or sneak in a quick cuddle with your partner.
Remember, This Too Shall Pass
As tough as the witching hour can be, remember it's just a phase. Like all phases of parenting, this too shall pass. Before you know it, your little one will be onto the next developmental milestone, and the witching hour will be a distant memory.
If you find the witching hour particularly challenging and could use personalized support, I'm here to help. I offer free discovery calls to chat about your baby's sleep habits and how I can support you in creating a more restful routine for your family. Just click here to book your free call!
So, to all the parents out there, take a deep breath, cuddle that sweet baby of yours, and know that you're doing an amazing job.
