Nursery advisor

What to do when your baby is crying

Many a frustrated parent would give almost anything at times to stop their baby from crying or even soothe or calm their baby's crying so they can get them to sleep.


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The primary reason and theory for a baby's crying is to communicate needs and discomforts that require outside intervention. This stress mechanism of crying can allow children and babies to heal from the effects of a frustrating day, a fearful moment or a difficult situation.

Here is a checklist and overview of some points to remember when trying to help your baby sleep and soothe their crying.

  1. Is your baby hungry or thirsty?
    Try feeding your baby a bottle of warm milk or formula.

  2. Is your baby too warm or too cold?
    Make sure your baby's attire is appropriate for the weather.

  3. Does your baby need a diaper change?
    Check your baby's diaper for any sign of uncomfortable wetness.

  4. Is your baby overly tired or have they missed a regular nap?
    Try rocking your baby to sleep.

  5. Is it too dark in the room? Or to bright?
    Try adjusting the light.

  6. Does your baby feel scared or vulnerable?
    Try making intentional eye contact with your baby.

  7. Does your baby have symptoms of colic or need to be burped?
    Try placing your baby over your shoulder and gently rubbing or patting your baby's back.

  8. Is your baby teething?
    Try a teething ring or chewable food.

  9. Is your baby bored?
    Try a game of peak-a-boo or read a story with enthusiasm.

  10. Is your baby irritable?
    Try singing your baby a song or going for a walk.
Comments
What about breastfeeding?
I've always found that nursing my child at my breast offered the most comfort during his times of distress. I find it odd that the most natural method (and the method used for thousands and thousands of years) for soothing a crying baby would be left out of this page! Nursing is not just for sustenance. There is nothing more precious than an infant (or toddler) comforting him or herself at mama's breast. It not only calms baby, but offers a release of calming hormones for mama. Daddies can also offer baby some skin-to-skin comfort time by offering a clean finger, nail side up, on which baby can suck.
17.05.2008 22:03:28 Carrie
 
 

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