How to Stop Babies From Crying
A crying baby is a frustrating situation for parents, and can be especially difficult when a parent is unsure of the reason, whether it is a basic need or due to illness. Using your instincts, some patience and common sense, you can stop your baby from crying.
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Instructions
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Determine if your baby is crying due to a basic need by a process of elimination. Ask yourself questions and take action based on the answer: Could your baby be hungry? A hungry baby will smack their lips, open and close their hands, and move their head towards your hand if you touch their cheeks. Is your baby uncomfortable due to temperature or a soiled diaper? Check your child's diaper to determine if discomfort is caused by a dirty diaper. Hold your hand to his head to determine if he is warm. Notice if your baby is yawning, rubbing his eyes and leaning against you as these are signs of a tired infant.
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Think back on the history of your baby's crying. If she cries often after a meal, the problem could be gas, which can be relieved by burping or moving her legs gently in and out of her stomach. If she is between four and seven months, she may be teething. Wet a wash cloth and place it in the freezer for a few minutes. Soothe your teething baby by allowing her to chew the washcloth. Relieve a chapped bottom with a clean diaper and some gentle over-the-counter diaper rash cream.
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Look for signs that point to a problem beyond the basic needs. Consider the possibility that your child is in pain due to a medical reason such as colic, an infection or even a common cold. A colicky child is one that is defined as having "inconsolable crying for at least three hours a day, at least three days a week, at least three weeks in a row." Schedule an appointment with your pediatrician if you suspect these are possibilities.
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Comfort your baby, regardless of your frustration level. Often times, an infant can be soothed simply by being held and interacted with in a quiet place. Talk to your baby so he is reassured and comforted by your presence. Remove all clothing to eliminate the possibility of discomfort due to elastics, buttons or tags. Plan a trip to your pediatrician if you've met your baby's basic needs, soothed, rocked, changed and comforted him until you've exhausted your options.
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Tips & Warnings
Light music and low lights set a calm atmosphere for a baby.
A warm bath can often solve crying, and gives you a chance to check your baby's body for bumps, scrapes or other reason's for her distress.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit new babies image by Photoeyes from Fotolia.com
