Soothing a Crying Baby

Soothing BabyHow to Soothe a Crying Baby

It is normal for babies to cry. It is how they communicate. 

First, make sure all of the baby’s basic needs are met.

  • Are they hungry?
  • Do they need to be burped?
  • Do they need a diaper change?
  • Are they too hot? Too cold?
  • Are they sick?
  • Are they bored or lonely?

What if that doesn’t work?

  • Stay Calm
  • Gently Walk, Dance or Rock the Baby
  • Take the Baby for a Ride in the Stroller or Car
  • Turn on Music or Run the Vacuum – Babies like white noise
  • Gently Massage the Baby

What if that doesn’t work either???

  • It is OK to put the baby in a safe environment, like an empty crib or play yard, and walk away for a few minutes to calm down.
  • Be sure to check on the baby every 10-15 minutes.
  • It is OK to ask for help!

 

Never Shake a Baby!

  • Shaking a baby can cause its head to move back and forth or side to side. This can injure the baby.
  • Most of the time, a baby is shaken because the caregiver gets frustrated or angry.
  • Most often, the caregiver gets frustrated because the baby won’t stop crying.
  • Sometimes the caregiver gets frustrated because of problems with toilet training, feeding or other life stress.

 

How do I know if my baby has been shaken?

  • Your baby may be unusually tired, fussy or quiet.
  • They may become rigid and stiff, or really loose like a rag doll.
  • They may throw up, have a hard time breathing or have seizures.
  • If you think your baby has been shaken, call 911 immediately!

 

Prevent Child Abuse NY Parent Helpline
Open 24 hours – 7 days a week
1.800.342.7472

Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Plus
1.800.858.5222

National Information, Support, and Referral Service on Shaken Baby Syndrome
1.888.273.0071

Contact Us

Mohawk Valley Perinatal Network
3 Parkside Court, Building 2
Utica, NY 13501

Phone: 315-732-4657
Toll Free: 1-877-267-6193
Fax: 315-732-5640
info@newfamily.org

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