Comforting a Crying Baby
Comforting a Crying Baby by Famhealth
Babies have crying bouts throughout the first year as this is their only means of communicating for food and comfort.
When your baby cries, your first instinct will be to pick them up. While there have been conflicting views on this topic, let your instinct guide you and do not be afraid of spoiling the baby.
Your baby is new to the world and needs to know that you are reliable and always available. However, if you feel that your baby is crying a lot and that it is making you lose patience or get over tired, get in touch with other mothers, self help and support groups or voluntary organizations which can help you find ways to cope. Let’s explore reasons why the baby may cry and what solutions are available to you.
Why Your Baby May Be Crying
If the crying sounds pitiful or different from normal, the baby may be unwell or a blocked nose could be the cause of the problem. Other possible reasons may be:
- Nappy rash or sore bottom
- Colic
- Being too hot or too cold
- During the process of bathing or dressing etc
- Your own bad mood may cause your baby to react with crying bouts.
- Too much fussing may be upsetting the baby
Ways to Pacify a Crying Baby
- If you fear your baby may be ill, do not hesitate to call a doctor as he may prescribe some remedies such nasal drops to help the baby breathe better and thus calm down
- If the baby has a sore bottom, take the nappy off and clean the bottom thoroughly. You may leave off the nappy for the rest of the day.
- If your baby is suffering from colic, try not to resort to medications at first and soothe the baby by rocking or take the baby out for a walk around the block.
- Avoid over heating or over chilling the baby’s room. The ideal room temperature for the baby is what is comfortable for lightly clothed adults.
- The baby may be hungry or thirsty so offer a feed or water
- The baby may need attention through a cuddle or may have gas that is relieved by rocking rhythmically in your arms or in a rocking chair
- Wrap the baby firmly in a shawl, tucking the ends to make a bundle. This process called a ‘swaddle’ makes a baby feel safe and secure.
- Another way to calm the baby is by gently patting the tummy or back to calm them or to relieve gas in the tummy.
- A pacifier or something to suck ,which is sterilized properly is another common remedy
- Babies love bright colorful things so distracting them with a picture book, a mirror or a new toy may also work.
Crying is a normal process, which all babies show. However, ask your health care provider if your child is showing continuous bouts of crying in spite of all your efforts. Doctor can perform an examination which can depict some medical condition which you might not be able to figure it out.
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