How Can I Help my Baby Stop Crying?

How Can I Help my Baby Stop Crying?
By Tina Allen, LMT, CPMMT, CPMT, CIMT

Do you ever wonder what makes a baby cry?

As crying is one of the few ways babies have of
communicating their needs to us, they cry about almost
anything. They have a special cry when they are hungry, feel
pain, have anxiety and are over stimulated. Even when they
have gas, are exhausted, scared or frustrated, babies fuss
and cry. It must be frustrating and stressful when they are
doing their best to communicate to us and we don’t
understand.

Stressful not just for babies but also for parents, who by
nature want to respond with action. But, how can we respond
appropriately?

To begin, feed your baby on demand, yes on demand.
When you’re hungry, how do you feel? Would eating change your mood?
Then feed your baby when they are hungry. Feeding on demand does not
create spoiled children. Of course don’t automatically assume that your
baby’s cries indicate that he is hungry. Just give the baby
your breast and see what happens.

If he still cries, check his diaper and if that’s not it,
then try some of the following:

Speak Gently: Try speaking softly and gently or
even better, try singing. Your baby knows your voice very
well and will recognize the tone and respond to it. Even if
you are a little off tune, baby won’t mind. Research has
shown that babies like the sounds of female voices but that
does not mean dad can’t give this a try too!

Relaxing Strokes: Sometimes babies cry because they just
want to be comforted. Maybe they’ve woken up abruptly or
something frightened them. A nurturing stroke can make a world
of difference. Try holding baby and gently stroking his back.

Make a Move: That’s right, try moving around. Babies love
motion as it reminds them of being in utero. But what kind
of movement? You might try walking, rocking, jiggling or
swaying.

Swaddling: If you are not sure how to swaddle, ask
your pediatrician, a nurse or experienced mother how to
swaddle the baby. For many infants, being wrapped tightly in
a blanket makes them feel safe and secure.

“Shushing” Sounds: Many babies are soothed by white noise.
Some things to try: a humidifier, fan, vacuum and clothes dryer.
It is important to be sure the “shushing” sounds are as loud as
your baby’s crying. Fresh Air: Try going outdoors. For many
babies just being outside in the fresh air can soothe. Maybe
it’s the sounds of the birds, the wind or the sun, whatever
it is, many babies will calm by being outdoors. Maybe this
will even calm you, too.

Have a Break: For moms, if you’ve been trying and trying to
soothe your baby to no avail, give dad, your partner, grandma
or even a trusted friend a try. They may have their own unique
way of helping baby to calm and quiet.

About the Author:

Tina Allen is an international parent educator and expert in
the field of infant and children’s massage therapy. Her
innovative approach to children’s health has allowed her the
unique opportunity to educate families and professionals
throughout the world in the many benefits of nurturing
touch. Visit her website for more information
www.liddlekidz.com or contact tina@liddlekidz.com