The 4S Soothing Techniques: How to Help Your Baby Sleep Better, Cry Less, and Feed More Easily

As a new parent, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your baby won’t sleep, cries frequently, or seems unsettled during feedings. It’s common to wonder if there’s anything you can do to make life a little easier for both you and your baby. The good news? Research has shown that using specific soothing techniques can help babies develop better self-regulation behaviors, leading to improved sleep, less crying, and a smoother feeding experience.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the 4S soothing techniques—a set of proven strategies that help newborns calm down and settle into a more predictable routine during the first few months of life.

What Are the 4S Soothing Techniques?

The 4S techniques were first explored in a randomized controlled study published in the Japan Journal of Nursing Science (2019). This study investigated the effects of these techniques on infants’ self-regulation behaviors, focusing on sleep, crying, and feeding. The results showed that infants whose parents used the 4S techniques slept longer, cried less, and fed more effectively.

Let’s break down what each of the 4S techniques involves:

1. Swaddling

Swaddling is the practice of wrapping your baby snugly in a lightweight blanket. This replicates the secure, comforting environment of the womb and can help reduce your baby’s startle reflex, which often disrupts their sleep. When done correctly, swaddling helps your baby feel safe and relaxed, making it easier for them to fall asleep.

How to Swaddle:

• Use a lightweight, breathable swaddle blanket.

• Wrap your baby snugly, but make sure there’s enough room for their hips and legs to move freely.

• Ensure the swaddle isn’t too tight around their chest so that they can breathe comfortably.

When to Stop Swaddling: Most babies benefit from swaddling during the first few months, but it’s important to stop swaddling once your baby can roll over on their own—typically around 3 to 4 months.

2. Side or Stomach Position (While Holding)

Holding your baby on their side or stomach while they’re awake can help soothe them, especially if they’re gassy or have colic. The side or stomach position helps relieve pressure on the baby’s stomach and can be more calming than holding them on their back.

However, it’s crucial to note that babies should always be placed on their backs when sleeping to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

How to Hold in the Side or Stomach Position:

• Hold your baby securely in your arms on their side or stomach, supporting their head and neck.

• Gently rock or sway while holding them in this position to calm them.

When to Use This Technique: This position is especially helpful when your baby is fussy or having trouble settling. It’s a great alternative for babies with colic or reflux issues.

3. Shushing (White Noise)

Shushing or using white noise (I love using this one everywhere I go including the stroller while walking around the neighborhood with the baby) is a highly effective way to calm your baby. The white noise mimics the sounds your baby heard in the womb, creating a familiar and soothing environment. Babies find white noise comforting because it blocks out other disruptive noises and helps them focus on falling asleep.

How to Use White Noise:

• You can purchase a white noise machine or use a white noise app on your phone.

• Choose a sound that’s steady and soothing, such as the sound of ocean waves, rain, or a heartbeat.

• Make sure the volume is not too loud. Keep it at a safe level for your baby’s sensitive ears—typically between 50-60 decibels.

When to Use White Noise: Use white noise during naptime and bedtime to help your baby sleep longer and more soundly. It can also be helpful when trying to soothe a crying baby.

4. Swinging (Gentle Movement)

Gentle swinging or rocking is one of the most natural ways to calm a baby. Babies are used to the movement they experienced in the womb as you walked around, so gentle movement can be very comforting. Swinging or rocking can help your baby transition into sleep and feel more secure in your arms.

How to Swing Safely:

• Use a slow and gentle rocking or swinging motion. You can hold your baby and sway from side to side, or use a baby swing designed for safe, gentle movement.

• Avoid vigorous or fast swinging, as this can be overstimulating for babies.

When to Use Swinging: Use gentle movement whenever your baby is fussy, tired, or needs help winding down for sleep.

What Did the Research Show?

In the study, researchers examined the effect of the 4S techniques on 42 mother-infant pairs, following the babies for six months after birth. One group of mothers received training on the 4S techniques, while the control group did not. The results were telling:

• Babies whose mothers used the 4S techniques had longer sleep durations compared to babies in the control group.

• Babies in the intervention group woke up less frequently at night, leading to more restful sleep for both babies and parents.

• The duration of crying was significantly lower in the group that used the 4S techniques.

• These babies also had fewer feeding disruptions and fed more effectively, which contributed to better overall self-regulation.

The Benefits of 4S Techniques for Parents and Babies

The 4S techniques are simple yet highly effective methods that can make a world of difference in your baby’s behavior. Here are some key benefits:

• Better Sleep: Longer, more restful naps and nighttime sleep for your baby.

• Less Crying: Reduced crying and fussiness, especially in the first few months.

• Easier Feeding: More effective feedings with fewer interruptions.

• Improved Self-Regulation: As your baby becomes more self-regulated, they’ll have an easier time calming themselves and adjusting to changes.

How to Implement the 4S Soothing Techniques

Ready to try the 4S techniques with your baby? Here’s a step-by-step plan to start implementing them:

1. Start with Swaddling: Use a swaddle blanket during naps and at bedtime to help your baby feel safe and secure.

2. Hold in the Side or Stomach Position: When your baby is fussy, try holding them on their side or stomach for soothing relief.

3. Use White Noise: Play white noise during sleep times to block out distractions and help your baby relax.

4. Incorporate Gentle Movement: Swing or rock your baby in a gentle motion when they’re tired or fussy to help them drift off to sleep.

The early months of your baby’s life can be challenging, but the 4S soothing techniques offer a simple and effective way to help your baby develop better self-regulation. With these strategies, you’ll not only soothe your baby more easily but also promote healthier sleep, less crying, and smoother feeding.

Remember, every baby is different, so it may take some time to figure out what works best for your little one. Be patient, and try combining these techniques for the best results!

If you want more in-depth tips on soothing your baby and improving sleep, check out my Ultimate Guide for Baby’s Naps—a comprehensive resource packed with tools and strategies for parents.

Sources:

• Öztürk Dönmez, R., & Temel, A. B. (2019). Effect of soothing techniques on infants’ self-regulation behaviors (sleeping, crying, feeding): A randomized controlled study. Japan Journal of Nursing Science, 16(4), 407–419. https://doi.org/10.1111/jjns.12250