Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Appeal to your baby's familiar senses. While baby was still in the womb, his senses began working. That's why he bonds with mom at birth, because she's familiar. Everything from the sound of her voice to the smell of her skin is already comforting to baby. As much as possible, keep these familiar senses nearby.
Step2
Soothe your newborn using motion. While in the womb, your baby moved every time mother moved. Every step she took caused baby to sway, at least a little bit. To help your baby transition from womb to world, try to recreate that soothing motion. That's why so many babies enjoy the rocking chair.
Step3
Touch your baby. Mom's body naturally held baby tightly in the womb, and baby knew that he was protected and safe. Recreate that feeling by holding baby close to your body. You can also swaddle him up tightly using blankets.
Step4
Add white noise to the nursery. Everyone knows about the crib and the swing, but the stereo that lightly plays static might be just as important. Even a fan or a humidifier can provide white noise that's soothing to baby. The womb was a noisy place, and you'll find baby is lulled to sleep by these sounds in the world.
Step5
Reduce visual stimulation. Research shows that bright lights and even the television can cause your baby to go into sensory overload. Keep a calm environment, and baby will feel more relaxed. Things will get chaotic soon enough, so enjoy it while it lasts.
Step6
Feel confident in your abilities. It's normal to question your qualifications to parent a newborn, especially when baby is crying. Keep in mind that your baby can sense your doubts, and that leaves her feeling even more vulnerable and insecure. Even if you don't get it right the first time, keep trying, and remain confident that you'll succeed.
