Dad's Guide to Surviving Colic
Updated February 2026 • 6 min read
Your baby is screaming, you're exhausted, your partner is exhausted, and you've tried everything. Welcome to colic. Before you lose your mind — what you're feeling is normal, and there are things that actually help.
😭 Quick Answer
Colic peaks at 6 weeks and usually ends by 3-4 months. What helps: the 5 S\'s (swaddle, side/stomach, shush, swing, suck), gas drops, a warm bath, and taking turns so neither parent breaks. You WILL survive this.
What is Colic?
Excessive crying in a healthy baby — usually more than 3 hours a day, 3+ days a week, for 3+ weeks. It's not your fault. It's not something you did wrong. And yes, it will pass — usually around 3-4 months.
What Actually Works
Gas Relief Drops
The Mylicon Gas Relief Drops are pediatrician-recommended for a reason. Simethicone breaks up gas bubbles causing pain. Dye-free formula, gentle on tiny tummies, can be used at every feeding (up to 12 times a day). Keep a bottle in every diaper-changing location.
Check Price on AmazonSwings and Motion
The Graco Simple Sway isn't just nice-to-have — it's a survival tool. Gentle side-to-side motion mimics the womb, and the two-speed vibration soothes colicky babies. Six speed settings let you find the exact rhythm. The motion + vibration combo often works better than either alone.
Check Price on AmazonYogasleep Hushh Portable White Noise
Three soothing sounds including that classic white noise. The womb was loud — your baby is used to background noise. Silence is actually weird to them. Portable enough for the diaper bag.
Check Price on AmazonSerene Evolution White Noise Machine
15 different sounds including heartbeat (incredibly soothing for newborns), rain, and various noise colors. Battery-operated so you're not tethered to an outlet.
Check Price on AmazonWhat Doesn't Work (Sorry)
- Colic tablets/homeopathic remedies — evidence is weak. Save your money.
- Rigid "colic holds" — help temporarily but aren't a solution.
- Switching formulas on your own — only do this under doctor supervision.
When to Call the Pediatrician
- Fever over 100.4°F
- The crying sounds different than usual
- Baby isn't gaining weight
- Vomiting, blood in stool, or other concerning symptoms
- You're having thoughts of harming yourself or the baby — get help immediately
Real Survival Tips
Take Shifts
You cannot do this alone. Split the night, split the evening, whatever it takes. Even an hour of silence can reset you.
Go Outside
Sometimes a colicky baby just needs different air. Motion of walking + different sounds + fresh air can break a crying spell.
It's Not Your Fault
Repeat this as many times as needed. Your baby isn't crying because you're doing something wrong. Their digestive system is just immature.
This Too Shall Pass
The 3-month mark is real. It gets better. You're almost there.