How to Calm a Colicky Baby

Babies with colic cry significantly more than other babies. They also appear to be more traumatized and in pain, leaving even mom frustrated and unable to pinpoint the problem. All that can really be done for a colicky baby is to provide comfort. These ideas may help.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Warm bath
• Warm bottle
• Blanket
• Pacifier
• Rocking chair
• Baby swing

1. Try soaking the baby in a warm bath or placing a warm water bottle on the tummy, taking care to keep temperatures soft and warm, not hot. Colicky babies respond well to warmth.
2. Rock the baby side to side in your arms, rock in a rocking chair or swing in a baby swing. All babies love motion. If all else fails, there is the tried-and-true method of loading up in the car and going for a ride.
3. Provide a little more security by wrapping your baby snugly in a blanket, rubbing his tummy gently or giving him a pacifier to suck on. Some colicky babies may simply need more attention than other babies.
4. Be patient with your baby; they are new at this! If you feel you are getting stressed, call for help.

Tips & Warnings

• Why babies get colic is unclear, but it isn’t a sign of sickness, and it is not anyone’s fault. If it lasts beyond 3 months, there may be a medical problem such as reflux, so see your doctor.