How to hold and calm a crying or gassy baby with the “colic hold.”
Crying babies are not something that we are able to listen to for very long. Our instinct is to try and do something to help them and stop the crying. If baby is not hungry, does not have a wet or dirty diaper, and you have tried everything else to get them to stop crying, you might want to try the colic hold. This hold is great for babies who are uncomfortable, have some gas or tummy upset, colic, fussy, or just need a change of scenery. The great thing about this hold is that if babies do have some stomach upset, this hold will gently put pressure on baby’s tummy which can help them work out any air bubbles that are trapped. Babies tend to stop crying faster in this hold and really enjoy it.
To get into this position, you will gently roll baby outward and support his cheeks and jaw with your hand. You are never holding him by his neck. He should have one arm and leg on each side of your opposite arm and will be hanging a little like a monkey. Once he is in position you can use the arm he is laying on to hold onto his upper thigh and have your second arm free. It is a very secure hold once you get there. You can see from the video; it is a little awkward at first and takes some practice to master. Once you master it, you will quickly find one of baby’s favorite positions to be held!
This video is meant for educational purposes only and never meant to act as medical advice. If you have concerns about your baby, please contact your baby’s pediatrician. Please, like, share, and subscribe for more information about babies and breastfeeding!
