Hold baby skin-to-skin on your bare chest

Undress your baby down to the diaper and hold them upright against your bare chest, covering both of you with a light blanket. This skin-to-skin contact, also called kangaroo care, is one of the most effective calming techniques for newborns and young infants.

Why It Works

Skin-to-skin contact stabilizes the baby's heart rate, breathing, and body temperature. It triggers the release of oxytocin in both parent and baby, reducing stress hormones. The AAP strongly recommends skin-to-skin contact beginning immediately after birth and continuing through the newborn period. Research consistently shows it reduces crying duration.

Tips

• Works for both mothers and fathers or any caregiver -- the warmth and heartbeat are what matter
• Ensure the baby's face is visible and their airway is clear at all times
• Recline slightly rather than lying flat to keep the baby's airway open
• Especially effective for premature or low-birth-weight infants
• Combine with gentle humming or soft talking to add auditory soothing
• If you are too exhausted for active soothing techniques, skin-to-skin is a restful alternative that still works