HOW TO CALM YOUR IRRITABLE BABY

SWADDLE HER AND HOLD HER TIGHT

Newborns have a definite need to feel safe like they did in your womb. Hold your baby so that she can hear your heartbeat. It’s very reassuring for babies to experience the same warmth they became used to for nine months.

SOOTHING SOUNDS

There are various sounds that can have a calming effect on your baby. Try white noise by placing her close to the washing machine or tumble drier. Sing lullabies or play light classical music. For most babies, these sounds are reassuring and can help calm them down.

MASSAGE YOUR BABY

Gently massaging your baby or lightly rubbing her tummy or back might just do the trick. Touch is very therapeutic for babies. Try and find out where on her body she likes being touched best.

LET HER SUCK ON SOMETHING

Many newborns have a strong need to suck something to pacify them. Try a dummy, your breast or even your fingers. Research shows that comfort sucking keeps your baby’s heart rate constant and might even relax her tummy.

TAKE A WALK

Sometimes all a baby needs is to get out of her usual environment. Put your baby in her pram and take a walk with her. A change of scenery can also help you relax.

GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK

Taking care of a niggly baby is not child’s play and can be physically and emotionally draining. It’s important to make time for yourself, because if you’re tense, your baby can feel it. Ask your partner or a friend to take care of your baby once in a while and try to make time every day for an indulgent bubble bath.

HOLD ON, THIS TOO SHALL PASS

To parent a crying baby can be exhausting at the very least, but fortunately for you and baby it won’t last forever. Crying peaks by six weeks and starts subsiding considerably between eight and 12 weeks, say those in the know. Before you know it, everything will be better.