Fussy Baby?

If you’ve ever gone to great lengths to soothe a fussy baby, you may feel like you’ve tried every trick in the book. As most new parents learn quickly, this can be one of the most challenging aspects of caring for a little one. Keep in mind, some of the most effective methods to get a baby to relax, stop crying and get some sleep are the safest and the simplest.

1Shush, shush, shush. A “shhh” mimics the sounds of a cozy, comfy womb, which can have a calming effect on fussy babies. Try this simple tip in a rocking chair.

2Togetherness. A baby carrier or wrap creates close comfort between parent and child, soothing your baby while giving you an endorphin boost. This is a great technique when you need two hands to move about the house, or want a comfortable way to breastfeed. For added convenience, check out innovative baby carriers that slip on like T-shirts, such as the Baby K’tan wrap, which is available in soft, natural and breathable fabrics.

3Make some noise. Making noise may sound counterintuitive when it comes to creating an ideal sleep environment, but the reality is that consistent background noise helps recreate the comfort of the womb. Whether it is white noise or soft music, find what works best. Check out versatile baby sleep apps that feature a variety of sound settings, such as fans, chimes and car rides, or classical music and lullabies, set on loops for consistent sleep.

4Swaddling. Celebrated for its role in fostering healthy sleep, swaddling provides a secure, soothing feeling for newborns, along with many other benefits. Talk to your pediatrician about the safe, proper way to swaddle during hot summer months, and be sure to use a fabric that allows for continuous airflow to avoid overheating such as a breathable stretch cotton. Consider versatility when you shop for swaddling products. Some products can be used to swaddle now and then be repurposed into a blanket or nursing cover as your baby grows. Note: When swaddling in the summer, you want to make sure your baby’s head is uncovered. Heat escapes through the head and keeping it uncovered will help your baby stay cool.

5Stick to the program. It will take some getting used to, but putting your baby on a consistent schedule will mean less fuss when it’s time to put your baby down for naps and at bedtime. Whether it’s singing your baby a song or snuggling and reading, creating a parent-child routine will help signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep.