Handling a crying infant can be tough, and you may be worried that something is wrong. Before you run to the pediatrician, however, go through a mental checklist of your infant’s needs. Your baby might be hungry, soiled, overstimulated, or too hot or cold. If none of those seem to be the case, try one of the soothing tips below.

How to Calm Your Crying Baby

1. Swaddle Them

Swaddling your baby in a large blanket allows them to feel safe and secure. First, spread out a blanket with a slight fold at one corner. Place the child's head on that fold and wrap one side of the sheet around them.

Next, cover the baby's feet. Take the remaining corner on the other side and wrap it around the infant, completing the swaddle. If you need help, ask your pediatrician to demonstrate for you. They can show you how tight the blanket should be.

2. Engage Them With Calming Sounds

Turning on soothing white noise is another way to make babies feel secure. A gentle, steady hum — like a recording of a heartbeat or the whir of a ceiling fan — reminds infants of the womb. There are also white-noise machines that block out loud or sudden sounds that may startle your baby. Complement this by rocking the child slowly in a carrier or your arms, which mimics the sensations babies feel in the womb.

3. Encourage Digestion

Digestive problems are a common reason for baby fussiness. To soothe their tummies, hold them in your arms and place them on their left side — where the stomach is — to encourage digestion. You can then gently rub their back.

If your child has frequent stomach problems, like excessive spitting or vomiting, consult a pediatrician. Bottle-fed babies might need a new formula, while breastfed babies can benefit from changes to their mother’s diet.

If you are concerned about your child's welfare, turn to Pediatrics, P.C. of Lincoln, NE. For over 50 years, this children's medical center has been providing top-quality care for kids from infancy through adolescence. They know how to make young patients feel at ease, and their pediatricians are always happy to answer questions from parents. Visit their website to learn more about their services, from immunizations to breastfeeding advice. For an appointment, call (402) 489-0800.