If you are a new, first-time parent, that first long bout of crying can be unnerving. These tips could help you get back the cute little cooing baby you brought home. (Remember- never shake or bounce your baby.)
- Is the baby hungry? Maybe they are in a growth spurt and need more food?
- Check for a wet diaper. Yes, check again, even if you checked a few minutes ago.
- Look for any restrictive clothing or scratchy tags
- Provide a favorite stuffed toy or blanket
- Babies sometimes fight going to sleep. They will fall asleep eventually if they need sleep.
- Gentle burping will stimulate burps or passing gas.
- Massage just one small area (think hypnotize… right between the eyes was my go-to spot).
- Play music at a level that the baby will need to stop crying in order to hear.
- Umbrella stroller time! Secure baby comfortably. Walking back and forth in just a 10 foot space will relax and calm baby to sleep. You can tilt the stroller back a little, just make sure there is a small folded soft blanket under baby’s head in case it tips back to the floor by mistake, especially if a small child is doing the pushing.
Colickly babies are the most troublesome. They are so uncomfortable. A teaspoon of fennel tea can help greatly. Try putting the baby on your upper legs on their stomach, then on their sides, left side first. ( always support their head) Otherwise, leaning them against a shoulder and rocking usually works to soothe the baby.
Other things could be at play that you need to be aware of, such as constipation, teething, upset tummy, or fever. You will intuitively know something is not normal for your baby. If you are concerned don’t hesitate to call your healthcare professional or take the baby to see your doctor. Always follow your health care providers advice when it comes to you and your baby.