Tips to Calm a Crying Baby
- Softly run your finger around the baby's face to soothe him.
- Let anger out in a safe way, listen to music, exercise or do housework.
- Call a friend or relative and talk out your frustration or see if they can take care of the baby.
- Slowly feed and burp; change the diaper.
- Check for signs of illness. If signs are present, call a doctor.
- Offer the baby a pacifier.
- Hold the baby against your chest and walk or rock the baby.
- Swaddle the baby tightly in a soft warm blanket.
- Lay baby, tummy-down, across your lap; gently rub or pat his back.
- Take the baby for a ride in a stroller or the car (in a car seat).
- If nothing else works, wrap the baby in a blanket and place the baby on his back in a safe place like a crib, close the door and go to another room. Check on the baby every 10 minutes.
Taking Care of a Small Child Is a Big Job
Caring for a crying baby can be frustrating and irritating. But remember, crying is the only way a baby has to communicate. The baby is not trying to make your life miserable. He or she is just trying to inform you of a need.
While it is normal for you to feel frustrated, lonely and over-whelmed, it is never okay to shake a baby.
Remember:
No matter how tired, angry or frustrated you feel, DO NOT SHAKE A BABY. Hard shaking can cause brain damage and death. Letting the baby cry it out when you have had enough is safer than shaking or punishing the baby. HOLDING AND CUDDLING SENDS THE MESSAGE THAT YOU LOVE THE BABY AND WANT HIM TO FEEL BETTER.
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