Ever wondered why your baby instantly calms down with a gentle pat on their back or bottom?
It’s because patting is more than just a comforting bedtime ritual, it’s rooted in biology, bonding, and the rhythms of the womb. In the womb, babies are constantly soothed by the rhythmic movements of their mother’s heartbeat and motions.
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This natural, repetitive rhythm is deeply ingrained in their early development. When you gently pat your baby, it mimics these sensations, making them feel safe and secure.
Why Patting Works For Baby Sleep
1. Mimics the Womb
The rhythmic tapping recreates the motion and sound of a mother’s heartbeat, providing a calming effect that helps babies transition from wakefulness to sleep.
2. Predictable and Soothing
Repetitive patting is consistent and predictable, two things babies crave in a world full of new experiences. It helps them feel in control and safe enough to relax.
3. Encourages Physical Bonding
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
The act of patting can stimulate a calming reflex in babies, reducing fussiness and tension. This is particularly helpful during nap transitions or night wakings.
5. Releases Feel-Good Hormones
Gentle touch encourages the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. These help your baby feel relaxed, happy, and ready for sleep.
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The Shush Pat Method
This is a gentle sleep technique popularised by baby expert Tracy Hogg. The Shush Pat Method combines gentle patting with a soft “shhh” sound to guide babies into sleep without needing to rock or feed them.
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.
Try and be consistent and make sure to use the same method at every sleep time. Watch out for your baby’s sleep cues like yawning, eye rubbing, or zoning out. Then create a sleep-friendly space like a dark room, soft noise, and a comfortable crib. Lastly, give it time. Habits take time to build, so be patient and gentle.
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