Global Parenting: Ancient Practices That Prevent Colic and Nurture Independence

Anthropologists studying communities from Botswana to Bali have long marveled at how rare colic is among infants in these regions. The secret isn’t genetic—it’s cultural. In societies where constant holding, near-instant comforting, and frequent feeding are the norm, babies are rarely left alone to stew in distress. These parents imitate the conditions of pregnancy: babies are bundled, bounced, nursed, and rarely set down.

One example is the !Kung San people, whose infants are carried in slings for nearly 24 hours a day, with quick, frequent feeds and immediate responses to the slightest fuss—all leading to crying bouts that seldom last longer than a minute. Western practices, built on outdated ideas about spoiling and rigid sleeping or feeding schedules, often result in much higher rates of intense, inconsolable crying. Cross-cultural findings suggest that rather than fostering dependence, early months of extensive nurturing actually lead to greater confidence and independence as the child grows.

Bringing some of these practices into modern households means more than mimicking every detail—it’s about understanding the reason behind each tradition. Research consistently shows that the more womb-like the fourth trimester experience, the fewer hours babies spend crying, and the smoother the family’s transition becomes.

This month, experiment with holding your baby more—by using a sling, skin-to-skin cuddles, or frequently switching off among family members. Feed flexibly, responding to hunger signals even if it means occasional snacks between full meals. If your baby cries, try to respond right away with touch and movement, saving 'cry it out' for when they're closer to six months old. You're not just preventing colic; you’re laying the foundation for lasting calm and healthy confidence.