Five ways to comfort and soothe a crying, upset baby

Children will always cry. The younger he or she is, the more crying you should expect because that is how they communicate.

You will notice that after two weeks they start to cry more often and the crying will continue to increase until he or she is about four months.

They will cry because they’re in pain, uncomfortable, hungry, too hot or cold, wet, sleepy, you name it.

Even when they’re not in pain babies will still cry.

As if that isn’t enough, they cry more in the evenings and they can cry continuously for a good 40 minutes even when they’re healthy. According to studies, in a given day an infant can spend four hours or more crying.

Frustrating as this may be especially when you’re tired or not even feeling well, at times you should just let them cry. This helps them relieve stress.

You must understand that you will not always know why your baby is crying and no matter what you try they will still continue crying. Well, here are a few things you can do to soothe them:

Lift them up and gently rock them as you place them on your left side. Gently rub their back to help with digestion, walk around or sit in a rocking chair.

Gentle movements and a reassuring tone will put them at ease and they will stop crying. If they fall asleep put them on their crib and make sure they lie on their back.

We all reminisce the days our mothers would tie us in a scarf and tirelessly carry us on their backs. From the little I remember it was such an amazing experience which I thoroughly enjoyed.

Do the same for your child only this time you will use a baby carrier or sling. For the first few months when their tiny heads need support a sling will work best.

Not only are they both convenient giving you room to use your hands but your baby will enjoy that feeling of closeness.

You will be surprised at how well this actually works. If they are still crying after you have picked them up, change hands. Let your partner or mother carry them.

If this doesn’t work, go from the nursery to the kitchen or sitting room. This change of scenery will offer great distraction and will help him or her change their mood.

And if they’re still cranky, take them outside for some fresh air, natural light and change in temperature. The new sounds and sights will ignite a calm response and they will stop crying.

This relaxing ritual has great benefits for your baby other then helping them to calm down. Not only will you be bonding but it will help them sleep better, enhance circulation, improve on their digestive function and boost their overall wellbeing.

Use gentle but not very firm strokes and massage them all over their body. Just make sure it is not too overwhelming especially for the infants neither is it ticklish.

Be receptive and follow their cues to see whether or not they’re enjoying it.

Does your baby fall asleep every time you give them a nice warm bath? This proves it has a calming effect on them.

Make it a routine to help them mellow out if all else fails.