How to Calm a Crying Baby

Babies are soft and adorable. Babies are precious. Babies have one of the most unique scents. Babies love you unconditionally. Babies laugh at some of the most random things. As many good things as you can say about babies, you can also say that babies cry. It is just a fact of a baby! Some babies cry loudly and others have softer cries. No matter how the baby cries, it is your job to calm them down. But how? Not all babies respond well to the same tactic, so you might have to try a few suggestions before finding something that works.

Babies cry for many reasons. Some babies cry because they are hungry or thirsty. Others cry because their diapers or wet or soiled. Often times, babies cry because they are in pain. Some babies will cry when they are hot or cold. Then, there are times when babies cry because they just want to be held and cuddled. Most parents are able to detect their baby's cries and can easily tell what their baby needs.

When you notice that your baby is in distress, respond in a timely fashion. You don't have to run to get to her, but you should quickly repsond. Babies, especially young babies, need to know that their parents or caregivers will meet their needs when they show signs of distress. This is how they develop trust. If your baby stops crying when you pick her up, you may have met her need. She most likely just needed to be held.

If your baby does not stop crying when you pick her up and hold her, she probably needs something else. Most babies have feeding schedules and you should check to see if she could be hungry. Breastfed babies often want their mothers to nurse them for comfort. If it is not time for a feeding, a pacifier may soothe your baby. Your baby may also be tired. Some babies will fall asleep while they are being fed.

You can help adjust your baby's body temperature by removing or adding clothing. Some babies need more or less clothing in certain climates and at certain times of the day. Simply remove or add an article of clothing until your baby seems comfortable.

If your baby is crying loudly or screaching, he might be in pain. Babies have no way of telling us that they are hurting, other than crying. Some babies will grunt or flail their arms and legs to signal pain. If your baby seems like she is in pain, take her temperature to make sure that she is not sick first. If the temperature reading is normal, try giving her gas drops. Babies often get gas bubbles trapped in their little stomachs and the pain can become intense. Teething also can be bothersome and you can give your baby something cold to chew on, teething gel or teething tablets. Make sure that your baby does not have a string or tag from her clothes irritating her skin also.

Some babies cry because of stimulation, or lack thereof. Often times, babies are bored and need to have a change of environment. Sitting in a swing or bouncy seat will eventually become tiredsome for your little one. Expose your baby to different colors, shapes, textures and sounds. Try wearing your baby in a front carrier or a sling so that she can be with you and see a variety of things. However, be careful not to give her too much stimulation because that could become overwhelming for her. A few toys can often be better than a bunch.

Babies like to be rocked, bounced and cuddled. Talk to your baby softly, read to her and sing songs with her. Sometimes just hearing a famiiar and gentle voice is all that your baby needs. Small babies like to sit in bouncy seats that vibrate. The vibrations can be soothing for them. A dryer works well for this too. Place your baby on a clean towel on top (not inside!) of the dryer, and turn the cycle on. Stay beside of the dryer and see if your baby calms down.