: How to Deal with a Cranky Baby

:
(507 Words)
A cranky baby can bring out a myriad of emotions in you: frustration, sadness, helplessness and more. Most want to try to soothe the baby and make it all better. Different tactics will be effective depending on the source of the crankiness. Try the following ideas.
See if there is a root cause of the crankiness
Being cranky is oftentimes the way that the baby communicates to you that he or she is not happy about something or has an unfulfilled need. You can often make it better by figuring out what your baby is cranky about and addressing that. For instance, hunger is a large source of this. Even if your baby has just eaten, this can still play a part. Remember that babies go through growth spurts and their eating habits can change and increase rapidly. You can try to feed your baby to see if that helps soothe him.
Of course many babies get cranky if they are wet or soiled. You can check their diaper and change if necessary.
Also consider what the baby is wearing. The baby can’t just say “Hey, mom, I’m hot!” Check to see if the baby seems cold or hot and adjust the garments as necessary. Also look to make sure that the garment isn’t too tight. Babies grow quickly and someone might put on an outfit that is too tight or binding. Also look to see if anything could be causing them pain such as if a button on their clothing is caught in their hair.
Rock the baby
Many babies love to be rocked. You can hold him or her over your shoulder or in a horizontal position. Gently bounce up or down.
Hold your baby
Many babies just want to be help when they are cranky. You can carry him or her tightly. Rub his or her back with your hand. They also have infant massages that many babies find to be very soothing. Some babies like to be swaddled in blankets.
Sing to your baby
A lot of babies love the sound of their parents soothing voices. It doesn’t matter if it is not quite on key. Make it soft and low. You can also just softly talk to your baby. Just saying “Shhhh” can help.
Gaze at your baby
A lot of babies are absolutely fascinated with people’s faces. Look at your baby, letting the love show through.
Play games with your baby
Play peekaboo. Dance for your baby. Hold his or her legs and do “Old MacDonald Had a Farm.” Do the “Itsy Bitsy Spider” or the piggy game with his or her toes. Many babies will get distracted by these.
If your baby remains cranky despite all of your attempts or if he or she is continuously howling, then he or she can be in pain or have another issue at play. You might want to call your physician to see if he or she should be evaluated. Otherwise the above techniques can help you deal with one very cranky baby.
Updated On: 09/10/2010 Published On: 09/10/2010 Article ViewerClose
Helium 360 – Relating 360
RELATING PROJECT 20100901 – 20100930
Why the Beach is a Great Place to take a Date
by Suzanne Rose
WritingImagesAttachments