June 1, 2006

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - New moms looking for techniques to calm and soothe their newborns can now register for the latest addition in UAB's repertoire of childbirth education classes, "Happiest Baby On The Block." The one-day class teaches new parents a series of techniques to quickly calm fussy babies and help them sleep longer.

The Happiest Baby program is based on the award-winning book and DVD, "The Happiest Baby on the Block," by Harvey Karp, M.D., associate professor of pediatrics at UCLA medical school, authority on baby calming, child behavior and breastfeeding. UAB's Erin Neblett, program coordinator in the Department of Pediatrics, was recently certified as an instructor for the nationwide parenting program.

Approximately half of new babies cry or fuss more than two hours a day. Prolonged periods of crying often can trigger exhaustion for baby and momma, marital stress, breastfeeding failure, maternal depression and even child abuse or injury from shaken baby syndrome. However, Nesbett says there are a handful of easy techniques -- such as swaddling, which simulates the womb -- that trigger the calming reflex in babies.

The UAB "Happiest Baby on the Block" class will be held this Saturday, June 3, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the 10th floor classroom of Jefferson Towers, 625 19th St. S. Parents interested in registering can call 205-996-BABY.

"Happiest Baby on the Block" classes are also planned for August, October and December.