The information in this program outline is provided by the program representative and edited by the CEBC staff. The The Happiest Baby (THB) program has been reviewed by the CEBC in the area of: Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (Secondary), but lacks the necessary research evidence to be given either a Scientific Rating or a Child Welfare Relevance Rating.

• Child Welfare Outcomes: Not Specified
• Type of Maltreatment: Physical Abuse
• Target Population: New parents, grandparents, teachers and healthcare professionals.

THB explains that the current culture’s conceptualization of the first three months of life is flawed. In many ways, newborns are not fully ready for the world at birth, they still need a protected environment filled with rhythmic, monotonous, entrancing stimulation...a fourth trimester. It teaches five simple methods of activating the “calming reflex” by imitating the uterine sensory milieu - the "5 S's" - Swaddle, Sidestomach position, Shush, Swing, Suck. Laboratory research has demonstrated that elements of this program, including swaddling, sound, and movement, improve the quality of sleep and promote greater arousability, which may protect against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This program promotes good parent-infant bonding and aims to assist in the prevention of a number of severe and life-threatening consequences of infant crying. These consequences are marital stress, Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS), Post-Partum Depression (PPD), Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), excessive use of Emergency Room/physician time, overly aggressive medical evaluation and treatment for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), and perhaps even in the prevention of obesity.