The witching hour, that challenging time of the day when your baby becomes fussier and harder to soothe, can be overwhelming. There are strategies to help you manage this period and bring more calm to your evenings.

Reduce sensory overload

During the witching hour, babies often get overstimulated. Create a calming environment by dimming the lights, reducing noise, and minimizing distractions. Soft background music or white noise can also be soothing.

Give your back and arms a break – try babywearing!

Wearing your baby in a carrier or wrap can provide comfort and security. The close contact and gentle movements of walking around with you often ease fussiness, but it’s also easier on you. When adjusted properly, babywearing distributes weight evenly and can better support your tired arms, back, and shoulders.

Mix it up

If rocking is your go-to, but it’s just not working, try a different motion, like swaying or bouncing. Many families find it helpful to keep a yoga ball around. You can sit on it while holding your baby and gently bounce up and down together.

Offer feedings

Sometimes, babies become fussy during the witching hour due to hunger. Many parents notice that cluster feeds coincide with evenings, as it can be their way of stocking up on milk before a longer stretch of sleep.

Dealing with a fussy baby can be emotionally draining. Remember to take care of yourself too. Reach out for support from your partner, family, or friends, and take breaks when needed. A calm and collected caregiver can better comfort a fussy baby.