Why Babies Cry (page 3)

Distraction

• If your baby is fussing but not crying desperately, try to distract him.
• Play peekaboo or hold him up to a window where he can see a busy street or older children playing. Show him a toy or a mobile.

Sounds

• Most babies like sounds that remind them of what they heard before they were born. It wasn't quiet inside the womb--the sounds of the mother's heart and blood flow are quite loud. Rhythmic,monotonous, steady sounds are best.
• Try a loudly ticking clock, the vacuum cleaner, fan, air-conditioner, dishwasher, washing machine, or dryer. But never put your baby on top of an appliance.
• Try taking your baby in the bathroom and turning on the shower and the fan, but not the light.
• Sing to your baby.

What Doesn't Help

• Medications including sedatives, antihistamines, drugs for motion sickness, lactase or Simethicone do not work to reduce babies' crying, and may be dangerous. Check with your baby's doctor or nurse before giving your baby any medicine.

When Your Baby Can't Stop Crying

• Undress her and see if something in her clothes is making her uncomfortable, or if there is a strand of hair caught around a finger or toe.
• Your baby may be sick. If your baby has vomiting or diarrhea, or a temperature over 100.5°, or seems to be in pain or acts sick, call his doctor or nurse.
• Your baby may be teething. Check with your doctor or nurse about what to do.
• Try putting your baby in a baby carrier or sling so your hands are free to do other things. Your baby likes to be close to you even when he's unhappy.
• Remember that the crying is not directed at you. Your baby is even more miserable than you are.

If You are Really Frustrated or Angry

• Put the baby down on her back in a safe place, like the crib, and leave the room until you are calmer. Take a break from the sound of crying.
• Put on music with headphones, or take a shower with the fan on.
• Call a friend, or your mom or dad, just to talk.
• The Parental Stress Line offers free anonymous Phone Support, 24/7 at 1-800-632-8188 (assistance available in other languages).

Taking care of yourself

• Not getting enough sleep makes everything harder. Try to nap when your baby does.
• There may be a mother's group nearby, or a Family Resource Center in your city. Parents Helping Parents at 1-800-632-8188 can help you find a parents' group.

NEVER SHAKE A BABY

Shaking or hitting a baby can cause permanent brain damage or death.