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.
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Looking for the best ways to care for and comfort your
little one? Find answers to all your questions about
infant and children's massage at http://www.liddlekidz.com
. With over a decade of service to children and families,
Tina Allen, founder of leading children's health and
nurturing touch organization Liddle Kidz™, has become an
internationally respected parent educator and expert in the
field of infant and children's massage therapy.
