When you welcome a new baby into your life, the term “witching hour” might not be on your radar until you experience it firsthand. Initially, it may sound whimsical, like a scene from a supernatural drama. However, for new moms navigating this challenging period, it can feel more like a horror show. At around 5 PM, your little one may suddenly become fussy and restless, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. It’s perfectly normal to seek advice from fellow parents, who often share their own tales of the witching hour. Despite the shared experiences, the nagging question remains: Am I doing something wrong? What exactly is this witching hour phenomenon?
What is the witching hour?
The “witching hour” isn’t a medical term but rather a colloquial phrase describing a time of day when babies become particularly fussy and hard to soothe.
When does it happen?
Typically, the witching hour kicks off around 5 PM and can last until 11 PM, with some parents reporting it extending past midnight. So, yes, the term “hour” is a bit misleading—it can feel like an eternity!
What causes the witching hour?
There’s no definitive answer to what triggers this phenomenon, but several theories exist. Your baby could be overtired, as managing their sleep can be tricky in those early months. Alternatively, they might be overstimulated due to the bustle of family activities—dinner prep, homework, and the like.
How can I help my baby during this time?
Now that you have a grasp on the witching hour, here are some strategies to navigate it:
- Cluster feeding: Allow your baby to nurse or bottle-feed more frequently for comfort.
- Burp them: Help release any gas or discomfort.
- Self-soothing: Introduce a pacifier or encourage them to find comfort in their fingers.
- Prioritize rest: Resist the urge to constantly engage your baby; they need plenty of sleep, including daytime naps.
- Cuddle them: Holding or wearing your baby in a carrier can provide comfort and warmth.
- Get moving: A walk in a stroller or carrier, or even a car ride, may soothe them. The motion can be calming.
- Self-care for you: Don’t forget to take a breather for yourself. It’s completely okay to let your baby cry for a few moments while you recharge.
Is the witching hour the same as colic?
While both colic and the witching hour involve excessive crying, they are not the same. Colic is characterized by prolonged, intense crying for three or more hours a day, multiple times a week, and is often linked to discomfort. In contrast, the witching hour is a temporary phase that most babies outgrow by the time they reach three to four months.
What about puppies?
Interestingly, pets can have their own version of the witching hour! Puppies often become hyperactive during the early evening, wanting to chew on everything. Providing plenty of chew toys can help keep them occupied.
The history of the witching hour
Originally, the term referred to a time associated with supernatural activity and danger in 18th-century Christianity, aptly named the Devil’s hour, which starts at 3 AM. The parallels between that fear and dealing with a crying baby are not lost on parents!
When does the witching hour end?
The good news is that the witching hour does come to an end. Most sleep experts agree that these challenging periods typically subside by the time your baby reaches three to four months old.
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In summary, the baby witching hour can be a challenging phase for new parents, marked by excessive fussiness and restlessness in infants, typically occurring in the early evening. While it can feel overwhelming, understanding its nature and employing soothing strategies can help ease the experience. Remember, it is a temporary stage that most babies will outgrow.