As a mother, there is no sound more heartbreaking then the sound of a crying baby.
Babies cry when they need something and since no one has yet invented a baby translator, mothers are left to their own interpretation in determining what their babies need.
Check the Basics
When trying to soothe a crying baby, it always helps to start with the basics. Babies generally cry when they have a need that is not being met. Check your baby’s diaper to see if he needs to be changed. Determine whether or not your infant is hungry. Tired babies often cry, but an overly tired infant is difficult to put to sleep. If none of the usual techniques work, try taking your infant for a drive in the car, rocking him until he gets drowsy, or putting him in an infant carrier.
Is Your Baby Sick?
One of the first sign that a young infant is getting sick is that he cries more often than usual. If your baby is acting differently than normal try taking his temperature to see if he is running a fever. If your infant is tugging at his ears it may be a sign that he has an ear infection. In young babies it is difficult to determine if they have diarrhea since their stool is loose to start with, but you can watch to see if your baby is crying before having a bowel movement. That may be a sign that his tummy is upset or he has gas.
Is Your Baby Teething?
Teething can last for several months but your infant may have periods of time when his gums are more painful than others. Teething infants will try and put anything in their mouths including toys, their hands, your hands, and blankets. If your infant seems to be putting more things in his mouth than usual or is drooling more than he used to, he may be teething. Wash your hands well and rub your fingers over his gums to see if you can feel any new teeth or bumps where teeth are working their way to the surface. Teething pain will not go away until after your baby’s teeth have finished coming in but there are many things that you can do to relieve his pain.
Has Your Baby Recently Been Immunized?
While some babies have no reaction at all to immunizations, other infants may be sore or feel sick. Infants that are having a mild to moderate reaction to recent immunizations may be fussy and either sleep more than usual or have trouble falling and staying asleep. Many pediatricians recommend giving babies a small dose of Tylenol for the first 24 hours after being immunized if they need it. Be sure and read the information sheet from your pediatrician so you know what symptoms indicate a more severe reaction to an immunization.
Is Your Baby Bored?
Babies, especially as they grow older and become more interested in the world around them, can become bored with their surroundings. Sometimes your baby can be satisfied simply by being picked up and giving him have a different view of the room. Other times your baby may be happier going on a walk or getting out of the house. Reading books or looking at colorful pictures is wonderful for stimulating even the youngest infants and music can be fascinating and very soothing for babies.
Does Your Baby Want Mommy?
As a mother, you are the center of your baby’s world. There may be times that all your baby really wants is you. Letting your infant see your face when you talk to him can be very reassuring. You can play simple games with your baby like peek-a-boo. Cuddling with mom can solve most of life’s problems when your baby is small. While having a fussy baby can be tiring, just try and remember that it won’t last forever.
