7 quick ways to comfort a crying baby
Article by Cherlynn Ng
Babies cry for all sorts of reasons, from hunger to colic to fatigue. Sometimes, the wailing doesn’t cease even when it seems like you are doing everything right. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you are just trying to catch some much-needed Zs. Try these tips when your little one seems inconsolable and you might just find something that works!
1. Swaddling
Keep your newborn feeling snug and cosy by wrapping them in a blanket. This popular technique puts a comfortable amount of pressure around the baby’s body to create a soothing womb-like feeling, thus helping them to settle down faster and sleep longer. Keep in mind that you need to leave enough space for your infant’s legs to move around so that he or she does not develop hip dysplasia.
2. Skin-to-skin contact
There’s nothing more healing than the human touch. Lay your baby on your chest and let them listen to the steady rhythm of your heartbeat. Not only does this calm your baby down, it also reminds them of the warmth that they once felt in your womb. You can even sing them a lullaby while cradling them.
3. White noise
This is another way to remind babies of the womb. To create white noise, turn on the vacuum cleaner, fan or any household appliance. The rhythmic whooshing sounds will block out other random noises that tend to startle your baby. If you do not have any electronic gadgets handy, try shushing your baby by making “Shhhhhh… shhhh… shhhh…” sounds.
4. Rhythmic motions
Constant and rhythmic movements can help your precious angel get into the swing of bedtime. You have a generous choice here, whether it’s a rocking chair, a vibrating bouncy seat, an automatic cradle or even your own arms. However, be careful not to let your baby become over-dependent on motion to fall into a slumber. It’s recommended that you let them reach the brink of dreamland before moving them to the crib.
5. Encourage sucking
Sucking comes as a natural reflex for infants and works wonders in soothing them. You can help them to find their thumb or finger to latch on, or even offer them your own. Pacifiers will do the trick as well, though it’s best if you wait until breastfeeding is well-established before introducing your baby to one.
6. A switch of scenery
Sometimes, all it takes is a change of environment to halt a crying spell. Try moving your baby to a different room or going outdoors for a breath of fresh air. This will improve their mood — and yours too. If your tot is overstimulated by his or her surroundings, dim the lights and turn off all music. They will once again be reminded of their old home: Your womb.
7. A change of hands
It’s perfectly fine to ask for help when you feel overwhelmed. Let daddy have a turn or even consider hiring a professional confinement nanny, whose experienced hands can help you to deal with the situation while you get some well-deserved rest.
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