How to Soothe a Crying Baby: Expert Advice for New Parents

July 23, 2021

Photo credit Katie Smith

As a new parent, it can be overwhelming and exhausting to listen to your baby crying for hours on end. It's natural to feel frustrated and unsure of how to soothe them, but rest assured that you are not alone in this. Crying is a normal way for babies to communicate their needs, and there are many different strategies you can try to calm them down.

1. Comfort with your touch: Babies love the comfort and security of being held close, so try to hold your baby as much as possible. Rock them gently, sway back and forth, or take a walk while holding them. The warmth and rhythm of your movement can be very soothing. If your baby is really upset, try skin-to-skin contact. This is where you undress your baby down to their diaper and hold them close to your bare chest.

2. White noise: Babies are used to the constant sound of the womb, and white noise can help recreate that familiar sound. You can use a white noise machine, run a fan or vacuum cleaner, or play soft background music to soothe your baby.

3. Swaddling: Swaddling your baby can make them feel secure and warm, which can calm them down. Make sure to use a thin, breathable blanket and not wrap them too tightly.

4. Change the environment: Sometimes a change of scenery can do wonders for a fussy baby. Take them for a drive, go for a walk, or simply move to a different room. The fresh air and change of scenery can help calm them down. The eyes need natural light to develop properly. Current recommendations are at least 1.5 hours of natural light a day.

5. Soothing sounds: Singing, humming, or talking softly to your baby can also be very calming. This can also help to establish a bond between you and your baby.

6. Give a warm bath: A warm bath can help to soothe and calm a fussy baby. Make sure the water is not too hot and supervise them closely to ensure their safety.

7. Offer a feeding: Be aware of feeding cues such as turning head, opening and closing their mouth or puckering lips, sucking on hands, fingers and clothing, stretching, positioning head towards the chest of whoever is holding them, squirming, and fussy noises. Sometimes a hungry baby can be a fussy baby, so make sure to check if they are hungry before trying other soothing strategies.

8. Burp after feeding: Make sure to burp your baby every after feeding as it helps get rid of some of the air that babies tend to swallow during feeding. Use motion: Rocking, bouncing, or swaying can be very calming for babies. Try using a rocking chair, bouncer, or baby carrier to help soothe your baby.

9. Get some help: Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. If you are feeling overwhelmed and need a break, reach out to a trusted friend or family member for support.

It's important to remember that every baby is different, and what works for one baby may not work for another. It may take some trial and error to find what works best for your baby, but with patience and persistence, you will find what soothes them. And remember, this too shall pass. The crying and fussiness will not last forever, and soon enough you will be enjoying all the snuggles and smiles your baby has to offer.