How to Handle The Baby Witching Hour

How to Handle the Baby Witching Hour

For many new parents, the term “baby witching hour” brings to mind a challenging time when their normally sweet baby becomes inexplicably fussy. While the term originally referred to a late-night period associated with supernatural happenings, for parents, it signifies the hours of relentless crying and restlessness. Fortunately, as a baby’s digestive system matures, this difficult phase almost always improves.

What Is the Baby Witching Hour?

The baby witching hour typically occurs in the late afternoon or evening, lasting 2-4 hours but occasionally extending into the early morning. It’s characterized by:

• Loud, frequent, and excessive crying
• Signs of discomfort, such as clenched fists, a red face, and tensed muscles
• Difficulty being soothed despite various efforts
• A strong desire to suck or feed frequently, often finding temporary relief through sucking

Why Does the Baby Witching Hour Happen?

The “normal crying curve” helps explain this phenomenon. Babies’ crying tends to peak around 2 months of age and gradually decreases by 4-5 months.

• Some babies cry as little as 30 minutes a day, while others—known as “high criers”—may cry for up to 5-6 hours daily.
• Possible causes include colic, reflux, and gut sensitivities, but the exact reasons remain unclear.
• Researchers suggest that crying may help babies release excess energy and process overstimulation.
• Overtiredness can also play a significant role, creating a cycle of wakefulness and fussiness.

What to Check if Your Baby Is Crying

Before assuming it’s the witching hour, rule out these common causes:

1. Feeding: Ensure your baby is feeding effectively and getting enough milk. Hungry babies are often unsettled.
2. Growth: Track your baby’s growth using their percentile chart. Consult your Child Health Nurse if you have concerns.
3. Sleep: Make sure your baby has opportunities to rest throughout the day. Overhandled or overtired babies often struggle to settle.

Practical Tips for Managing the Witching Hour

These strategies can help soothe your baby and make the witching hour more manageable:

1. Swaddle: Wrap your baby snugly in a light muslin or cotton wrap (stop swaddling once they can roll and transition to a safe sleep sack).
2. Warm Bath: Give your baby a relaxing, warm bath and gently massage their tummy in a clockwise direction. Bicycle their legs to relieve potential gas or tummy pain.
3. Extra Feeds: Offer extra feeds, especially if breastfeeding. Sucking is naturally comforting for most babies.
4. Bottle Feeding: If bottle-feeding, ensure the feed lasts 20-30 minutes. Slowing milk flow (by adjusting the screw cap) can help prevent discomfort.
5. Prepare Dinner Early: If you have older children, prepare the evening meal earlier in the day to avoid added stress.
6. Dummy: Consider offering a dummy for soothing. If breastfeeding, wait until your baby is around six weeks old and breastfeeding is well-established.
7. Pram or Sling: Use a pram or baby carrier to keep your baby close and gently rock them. Movement and proximity are soothing for many babies.
8. Take a Break: Hand your baby to a trusted adult and give yourself time to recharge. A hot shower, a quiet moment, or a snack can work wonders for your energy and mood.
9. Cot Settling: Place your baby in their cot, pat them gently, and shush them. Always follow safe sleep guidelines, placing your baby on their back.
10. Step Away If Overwhelmed: If you’re alone and feeling overwhelmed, safely place your baby in their cot and step away for a moment. Take a few deep breaths and reach out to someone for support.

Remember: This Too Shall Pass

The baby witching hour can be exhausting, but it’s a temporary phase. As your baby grows and their body matures, these difficult periods will gradually ease. In the meantime, seek support from loved ones or professionals, and don’t forget to care for yourself.

Parenting through these challenging moments is no easy feat, but you’re not alone—and you’re doing an amazing job.

Still need support?

If you’re still uncertain and need further support, I invite you to explore the packages I offer. Additionally, I provide comprehensive sleep guides that you can explore here. These guides cover everything from newborns to toddlers, ensuring you have the resources you need for a good night’s sleep.

Should you have any doubts about which package to choose, I’m available for a free call that you can schedule here. Together, we can determine the best support for your child’s sleep needs and ensure a perfect fit for your family.

Feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!