If your newborn just won’t stop crying, Emma Hubbard has a solution for you. In her video, she demonstrates the Flex and Hold Position, a technique that combines three comfort triggers to help soothe your baby quickly. Discover the step-by-step process, the science behind it, and when to use this method – so you can bring calm to your little one in just 60 seconds.
Remember, your baby isn’t broken, and you’re not failing as a parent. Sometimes they just need a bit of extra help in finding their peace, and this position can provide them with exactly that. Follow Emma Hubbard on Instagram for more insights on baby development and handling newborn crying.
Understanding the Flex and Hold Position
Learn the step-by-step position to calm crying babies
When your newborn won’t stop crying, it can be distressing and overwhelming for both you and your baby. The Flex and Hold Position is a simple technique that combines movement, white noise, and self-soothing to help settle your crying newborn quickly. By holding your baby in a specific position, you can provide comfort and security, which can help soothe their distress. Understanding the step-by-step process of this position is essential for effective implementation and calming your baby effectively.
Discover the science behind why this technique works
The science behind the Flex and Hold Position is fascinating and offers insights into why this technique is so effective at calming crying babies. The combination of movement, white noise, and self-soothing triggers the release of calming hormones in your baby’s brain, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. By understanding the underlying mechanisms of this technique, you can feel confident in its effectiveness and utilize it to help your baby find calm during moments of distress.
Understand how movement, white noise, and self-soothing work together for maximum effect
Movement, white noise, and self-soothing are powerful tools when used together to soothe your crying newborn. Movement mimics the sensations your baby experienced in the womb, providing a sense of familiarity and comfort. White noise creates a soothing auditory environment that masks other sounds and promotes relaxation. Self-soothing encourages your baby to regulate their emotions and find calm independently. When combined, these elements work synergistically to create a calming experience for your newborn and facilitate a quicker transition from distress to relaxation.
When to Implement the Technique
Identify situations when the Flex and Hold Position is beneficial
The Flex and Hold Position can be beneficial in various situations when your newborn is experiencing distress or crying inconsolably. Implement this technique when your baby is struggling to calm down despite attempts to feed, change, or comfort them through other methods. The position provides a secure and comforting environment for your baby, allowing them to release tension and find peace. By recognizing when your baby would benefit from the Flex and Hold Position, you can promptly address their needs and offer support during moments of distress.
Recognize when this technique may not be appropriate for your newborn
While the Flex and Hold Position can be effective in calming crying babies, there are instances where this technique may not be suitable for your newborn. If your baby is exhibiting signs of a medical issue or requires urgent attention, it is essential to prioritize their health and safety by seeking medical assistance promptly. Additionally, if your baby shows discomfort or resistance to the position, it may not be the most effective strategy for soothing them. Understanding when the Flex and Hold Position may not be appropriate can help you make informed decisions and provide the best care for your newborn.
Additional Tips for Soothing Your Baby
Utilize other techniques in conjunction with the Flex and Hold Position
While the Flex and Hold Position can be a valuable tool for calming your baby, it is essential to explore additional techniques to soothe them effectively. Incorporating gentle rocking, swaddling, or offering a pacifier can complement the benefits of the Flex and Hold Position and provide extra comfort for your baby. By combining multiple soothing strategies, you can create a holistic approach to addressing your newborn’s needs and promoting relaxation.
Explore different ways to help your newborn find calm
Every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It is crucial to explore different methods to help your newborn find calm and comfort. Experiment with gentle music, soft toys, or gentle massages to see what resonates with your baby and helps them relax. By staying attuned to your baby’s responses and cues, you can tailor your soothing techniques to meet their individual preferences and needs effectively.
Understanding Your Baby’s Cues
Recognize signs of distress in your newborn
As a parent, recognizing your baby’s cues and signals is crucial for responding promptly to their needs. Signs of distress in your newborn may include crying, fussiness, arching their back, or avoiding eye contact. By observing these cues, you can gain valuable insights into your baby’s emotional state and offer comfort and reassurance when they are feeling overwhelmed. Understanding the subtle signs of distress can help you build a strong connection with your baby and provide responsive care when they require it most.
Learn how to respond effectively to your baby’s needs
Responding effectively to your baby’s needs involves more than just meeting their physical requirements. It also entails offering emotional support, comfort, and security during moments of distress. Validate your baby’s feelings through gentle touch, soothing sounds, and a calming presence to help them regulate their emotions and find peace. By responding sensitively and compassionately to your baby’s cues, you can foster a trusting and secure attachment that enhances their emotional well-being and development.
Seeking Professional Help
Know when to reach out to a healthcare provider for guidance
If you have concerns about your newborn’s health, development, or behavior, it is essential to seek guidance from a healthcare provider promptly. Medical professionals can offer valuable insights, assessments, and recommendations to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to your baby’s distress. By seeking support from a qualified expert, you can receive personalized information and guidance that aligns with your baby’s unique needs and circumstances.
Understand the importance of consulting a medical professional for persistent crying episodes
Persistent crying episodes in newborns can be indicative of underlying medical conditions or challenges that require professional intervention. If your baby continues to cry inconsolably despite your best efforts, it is crucial to consult a medical professional to rule out any potential health concerns. Healthcare providers can conduct thorough evaluations, provide diagnostic assessments, and offer treatment options to address any issues contributing to your baby’s distress. Prioritizing your baby’s health and well-being by seeking medical assistance when needed is paramount in ensuring their optimal development and growth.
Maintaining a Calm Environment
Create a soothing atmosphere for your baby at home
Establishing a calming environment for your baby at home can significantly impact their emotional well-being and overall comfort. Ensure your baby’s room is quiet, dimly lit, and free from distractions to promote relaxation and restful sleep. Use soft blankets, comfortable bedding, and soothing scents to create a cozy and inviting space that fosters a sense of security and tranquility for your newborn. By designing a peaceful environment, you can help your baby feel safe, nurtured, and at ease in their surroundings.
Implement strategies to promote relaxation and comfort for your newborn
In addition to creating a soothing atmosphere, incorporating specific strategies can further enhance your baby’s relaxation and comfort. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, practicing gentle infant massage, and engaging in calming activities before sleep can help your baby unwind and transition to a restful state. Use gentle music, white noise machines, or soft lullabies to create a serene ambiance that promotes relaxation and soothes your baby’s senses. By incorporating these relaxation techniques into your daily routine, you can support your newborn’s emotional regulation and well-being effectively.
Embracing Parenting Challenges
Acknowledge that parenting can be overwhelming at times
Parenting is a rewarding yet challenging journey filled with ups and downs. It is essential to acknowledge that it is normal to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or anxious at times when caring for your baby. By recognizing and accepting the challenges that come with parenting, you can approach difficult moments with compassion, resilience, and patience. Remember that seeking help, support, and guidance is a sign of strength and dedication to providing the best care for your child.
Find support and resources to navigate through difficult moments
Navigating parenting challenges alone can be overwhelming, stressful, and isolating. Finding support from family, friends, support groups, or parenting resources can offer valuable assistance, encouragement, and practical advice to help you navigate through difficult moments effectively. Reach out to trusted individuals, seek professional guidance, or participate in parenting classes to gain insights, strategies, and coping mechanisms for managing common parenting challenges. By building a network of support and resources, you can feel empowered, informed, and reassured in your parenting journey.
Staying Patient and Resilient
Practice patience when soothing your crying newborn
Soothing a crying newborn can test your patience and emotional resilience, especially during moments of persistent distress. It is essential to practice patience, self-compassion, and understanding when comforting your baby to provide a calming and supportive presence. Take deep breaths, stay calm, and reassure yourself that you are doing your best to help your baby find comfort and ease. By remaining patient and composed, you can create a soothing environment and foster a sense of security for your baby during challenging times.
Build resilience as a parent to handle challenging situations with confidence
Parenting requires resilience, adaptability, and strength to navigate through unexpected challenges and complexities effectively. Building resilience as a parent involves developing coping strategies, seeking support, and practicing self-care to maintain emotional well-being and confidence in your parenting abilities. Embrace the uncertainties, learn from setbacks, and cultivate a positive outlook to overcome obstacles and instill resilience in yourself. By fostering a resilient mindset, you can approach parenting challenges with confidence, courage, and determination to provide the best care for your child.
Prioritizing Self-Care
Take care of your own well-being to better care for your baby
As a parent, prioritizing self-care is essential for maintaining your physical, emotional, and mental well-being to better care for your baby. Carve out time for yourself to rest, recharge, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Practice mindfulness, exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep to nourish your body and mind, enabling you to be present, attentive, and responsive to your baby’s needs. Remember that caring for yourself is not selfish but a vital component of effective parenting that enhances your ability to provide nurturing care and support for your child.
Incorporate self-care practices into your daily routine for mental and emotional health
Incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine can significantly impact your mental and emotional health, overall well-being, and parenting efficacy. Set aside dedicated time for self-care activities, such as meditation, journaling, hobbies, or leisurely walks, to recharge and rejuvenate your mind and spirit. Prioritize self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-awareness to cultivate a positive self-image and promote inner peace and balance. By nurturing yourself through self-care practices, you can enhance your resilience, reduce stress, and foster a harmonious connection with yourself and your baby.
Conclusion
Reiterate the importance of finding effective ways to soothe your crying newborn
Soothing a crying newborn requires patience, compassion, and attentiveness to their needs and cues. By implementing the Flex and Hold Position, exploring additional soothing techniques, and staying attuned to your baby’s signals, you can create a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes relaxation and comfort. Remember that each baby is unique, and finding effective ways to soothe them requires flexibility, experimentation, and responsiveness to their individual preferences and temperament. By adapting your soothing strategies to meet your baby’s needs, you can forge a strong bond, enhance their emotional well-being, and provide a loving and secure environment for their growth and development.
Encourage parents to seek help and support when needed to ensure the well-being of their baby
Parenting is a journey filled with challenges, uncertainties, and moments of joy and fulfillment. It is essential for parents to seek help, guidance, and support from healthcare providers, family members, and parenting resources to navigate through difficult moments effectively. Remember that you are not alone in your parenting journey, and reaching out for assistance is a sign of strength, resilience, and dedication to providing the best care for your child. By prioritizing your baby’s well-being, nurturing yourself, and seeking support when needed, you can create a harmonious and loving environment that fosters growth, connection, and happiness for both you and your baby.