Newborn babies cry for many reasons. They may be wet, tired, hungry, cold or hot. Sometimes they just need to be held. If you've met all of your baby's basics needs and she's still crying, reach for ways to return her to a calmer state.
Hold and rock the baby. Babies are often soothed by physical contact and movement, similar to what they experienced in the womb. Go for a walk with the baby in a front carrier or hold her and sit in a rocking chair.
2
Give her a pacifier. Babies have an inherent need to suck, and using a pacifier can be soothing to some newborns.
3
Swaddle the baby. Babies, especially newborns, love to be snug in a blanket because it makes them feel like they are still in the womb. Wrap your baby snuggly, but not so tight that he cannot move or becomes too hot.
4
Try baby massage. Put a bit of lotion on your hands and gently rub your baby's back, legs, feet and arms.
5
Hold your baby up to a mirror. Babies often become fascinated by their reflections and may stop crying when facing theirs. Make silly faces and smile, which may draw her attention away from crying.
6
Give her a warm bath, which can be soothing. Add scented products such as lavender, which can also be calming.
7
See a doctor if your baby continues to cry for no apparent reason. A doctor may diagnose an illness, allergy or colic.
Tips & Warnings
Have patience. Babies cry for a reason so it's important to find out why the baby is crying.
Contrary to what some people say, you can't spoil a baby by picking him up. Soothe a crying baby, don't let him cry it out alone.
Never leave a baby alone crying in his crib for a long period of time. Check on him often and if he doesn't stop, pick him up.
Never handle a baby if the crying is making you angry. It is better to lay him down or hand him off to someone else if you are too stressed by the crying.
How parents interpret and respond to their baby's cries teaches the infant about communication, and consequently has many short- and long-term consequences....
