Whether you’re a first-time parent or a veteran, stress levels rise when the baby is fussy. All babies are different, and what calms some won’t work for others. But with enough tips for relaxing your crying baby, you’re sure to find a method that works best. Your baby may love a special song or a good cuddle, so try out several of these strategies.
Determine Why Your Baby’s Crying
Before we can talk, we cry to communicate a problem, and a baby may cry because they’re uncomfortable. Try to determine why your baby’s crying; aside from dirty diapers, babies typically cry due to:
- Hunger: Keep feeding on a schedule to avoid over- or underfeeding.
- Agitation: The world is new and scary, so make your baby feel safe.
- Tiredness: Newborns need 14 to 17 hours of sleep a day.
And these are just a few of the many reasons our little ones cry. When your baby’s bored or not feeling well, they’ll also cry to alert you to the problem. Luckily, as you get to know your baby and set up a routine, understanding why they’re crying becomes easier.
Try Calming Movements
Different motions like rocking relax a baby and remind them of their time in the womb, so the next time your baby’s crying, try rocking your little one to sleep. Another option is to take your baby for a nice ride in the car since it provides a similar motion. And you could help your baby feel secure by swaddling them in a soft blanket.
Sing a Song
Give your baby a good cuddle as you lull them to sleep. Your baby loves the sound of your voice since it’s one of the first things they knew. This method may be great to try before bedtime as it gets your baby feeling mellow. And if you find that it works, continue it as you create a bedtime routinefor your little one. Many recommend schedules for babies because it gives them something to rely on as they navigate the world.
Go for a Walk
Yes, motion relaxes most babies, but you might also give your baby a change of scenery by getting outside. And when your baby is bored, they might benefit from the stimulation. The stroll doesn’t have to be far. Go for a walk down the street or around your yard.
There’s something about the great outdoors that nourishes the mind, and these tips for relaxing your crying baby give both of you a chance to discover mindfulness. Take time to point out new sites to your baby or focus on your senses so that you can stay in the moment.