A midwife has shared a simple technique to help new parents settle their newborn babies when placing them in a cot or moses basket. Claire Wilson Metcalfe, known as The Proud Midwife on TikTok, demonstrated the method in a video that has garnered attention from struggling parents.
Claire, a midwife of 14 years, explained that newborns are accustomed to the compact, curled-up environment of the womb. After birth, they often feel insecure when laid flat and may cry. Her tip involves gently applying pressure to the baby's chest while rocking the cot, mimicking the secure feeling of being held.
In the video, Claire described picking up a crying baby, comforting them, then placing them back in the crib with one hand pressed firmly on their chest. She then rocked the crib gently, maintaining light pressure. The baby settled quickly, and the grandmother present noted the effectiveness of the technique.
Claire advised that if a baby continues to cry, parents should pick them up for a reassuring cuddle. She added that a gentle pat on the bottom can also help. The tip has been praised by other midwives and parents, with one mother saying she wished she had known it sooner.
