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1. Mimics the Womb
2. Predictable and Soothing
3. Encourages Physical Bonding
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Touch is essential for emotional development. Patting involves close contact, reinforcing the parent-child bond and promoting a sense of closeness and trust.
4. Triggers Calming Reflexes
5. Releases Feel-Good Hormones
The Shush Pat Method
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How to Do the Shush Pat Method (Step-by-Step)
- Create a calming bedtime routine: Dim the lights, give your baby a warm bath, and snuggle up. A consistent routine signals that it’s time for rest.
- Place the baby in their cot while still awake: This encourages them to learn to fall asleep independently.
- Start patting and shushing: Gently pat your baby’s back or bottom in a steady rhythm while softly saying “shhh.” Think of it like the ticking of a clock — slow and steady.
- Continue until baby is calm: If your baby fusses, pick them up briefly to calm them, then place them back down and continue patting.
- Respond to night wakings: Use the same technique if they wake during the night. Skip the full bedtime routine, just shush and pat.
- Gradually step back: As your baby gets used to the method, reduce the amount of patting and shushing until they can fall asleep on their own.
Challenges and Solutions
- If the baby is not responding? Try adjusting the rhythm or pressure.
- If the baby wakes during patting? Stay calm and continue, reassurance helps.
- For overstimulation? Soften the patting or reduce other sensory inputs.
- For an older baby? Modify with less physical contact and use a comfort item.
