The Happiest Baby on the Block (DVD)

This DVD by Dr. Karp gives 5 tips for calming newborns that really work like magic. Watching it made my husband feel like a pro in the hospital with our newborn because he knew what to do. I have loaned mine out dozens of times to rave reviews. The parents who watched it who had a newborn especially liked it and saw immediate changes with the baby not crying as long and sleeping much better. It's a "must buy." (or rent it from your local library)

I bought this DVD for a friend after having used it myself with my newborn children. The time-tested calming techniques demonstrated in the short film parallel those in the book with the same title. However, those with newborns are often short on time and a 20 minute DVD might be easier than reading the whole book for those who prefer that method. Additionally, the swaddling idea not only prepares the infants for calming, but can help them sleep longer from the very beginning! We used something called a Miracle Blanket (check out their website) with our babies and found that once the baby was calm, the swaddling could help extend their naptimes from 20 min to 45 in the beginning and nighttime sleep stretches from 2 hours to 5 or later, from 4 to 7!) Definitely check it out if you are looking for ways to calm a crying baby and keep them soothed.

We really DO have the happiest baby on the block thanks to these tips! I strongly believe that because we have always been able to help her stay happy, she is now sleeping through the night at 6 mos. On more than one occasion when we see a baby that won't stop crying, the parents don't know about the "5 steps". When we show them, it's like a light bulb goes off. The background of WHY these techniques work is also very, very important, as it gives you a much better idea of how to execute them. The specific's are the important part - how loud to 'shush', how tight to swaddle, etc.

I had the pleasure of seeing Dr. Harvey Karp live at a speaking engagement recently. I am a huge fan of his work and I am amazed at this man's gift and talent for tapping into the psyche of babies and comforting them in such a unique and profound way. If you are having any type of difficulty with calming your baby then I highly recommend this DVD (or book). It shows you exactly how to make your baby comfortable and quiet. It also explains why these techniques work and what you can do for immediate results. I used this book everyday for the first month my baby was born. He was, and still is a fussy baby, but Dr. Karp's methods work every single time. If you do watch this DVD or read the book, then I also recommend buying Dr. Karp's CD of soothing, calming baby sounds. My baby boy loves these sounds and they put him to sleep instantly. Good luck!!

This DVD is a great instructional aid for new parents to learn a few tips on really having the happiest baby on the block. A lot of the topics have worked to keep my daughter as happy as possible. I highly recommend this for parents that have a hard time with a constant crying baby!!!!