Let's Talk About Witching Hour - by Rikki-Lee, Owner of The Doula Pod.

There’s a phrase that almost every new parent comes across sooner or later: the

witching hour. That spiky stretch of the day, usually around 5pm, when your baby

suddenly seems unsettled by everything. Nothing quite works…feeding, rocking,

holding, except often a mix of all three. And despite the name, it rarely lasts just one

hour. More often, it rolls on for a few.

If you’ve ever found yourself pacing the hallway with your baby in arms, swapping

shifts with your partner, or trying to throw dinner together while the fussiness climbs,

know this; you are far from alone. Parents everywhere have lived through this phase

and many will tell you it eventually softens and passes.

Why Does the Witching Hour Happen?

The truth is, no one knows for certain. What we do know is that it often begins

around three weeks of age, peaks at six weeks and most babies grow out of it by

around 12 weeks.

A few theories float around:

• Overtiredness – babies have short sleep cycles and by evening they can be

running on empty.

• Overstimulation – the build-up of a full day of lights, noise, faces, and activity

can overwhelm their little nervous systems.

• Gas or digestion – some babies are more sensitive to wind or discomfort

after feeding.

• Developmental growth – sometimes, it’s simply a normal stage of brain and

body development.

Whatever the mix of reasons, the key message is: this is a phase and it will pass.

What Can Help During the Witching Hour?

While nothing guarantees instant calm, a few strategies can make this time of day

more manageable:

• Babywearing

Many parents find a soft, snug carrier or wrap to be a lifesaver. Babies love

the closeness and you get your hands free, even if it’s just to make yourself a

cup of tea.

• Create a calming environment

Switch off the TV, dim the lights, and play music that soothes you. Your

energy transfers to your baby more than you might realise.

• Birth ball magic

If you used a birth ball in pregnancy, don’t retire it just yet. Gentle bouncing

with your baby in arms can be incredibly settling.

• Change the scene

Sometimes a walk outdoors is the simplest reset. Fresh air and a change of

environment can soothe you both.

• Share the load

If you have support at home, this is the time to tag-team. Even 20 minutes of

rest while someone else rocks the baby can make a huge difference.

Above all, try to keep perspective: this period is temporary. Even when it feels

endless in the moment, your baby is learning, growing, and will move through it.

When to Seek Extra Support

It’s worth checking in with a health professional if your baby is unsettled throughout

the entire day and night, not just in those few hours before bedtime. Witching hour

tends to be a distinct evening pattern; if the fussiness feels constant and unrelenting,

it may be something more than the typical developmental phase.

And Finally

The witching hour can be exhausting, frustrating, and lonely but you don’t need to

face it without tools or support. Build a little evening toolkit, lean on your partner or

village when you can and remind yourself: this too shall pass.

Find more information about Rikki and how she can support you here.