Calming Your Baby

One of the hardest things as a new parent is not knowing how to calm your baby. Even well-fed and healthy babies might have unexplainable cry patterns and seem impossible to soothe, especially in the early evenings and in the first three months.

“Colic” is the catchall term used for babies who seem inconsolable. Often, relieving their discomfort is a matter of trying new positions, swaddling, creating white noise, or using movement. Dr. Harvey Karp’s book Happiest Baby on the Block explains these practical techniques and gives answers to concerned – and flustered – new parents. Sharon Said, founder of ProActive parenting and parent educator, teaches a Happiest Baby on the Block class at local TriHealth Hospitals. “We explode the colic myth,” Said says. “Dr. Karp discovered an additional reflex in newborn’s brains that literally acts like a light switch in turning off baby’s crying.”

According to Michelle Emanuel, owner of Whole Body, LLC, a parent should first try and be calm themselves: take a deep breath and relax neck, shoulder and hand muscles. Emanuel also suggests singing, humming or “shushing” in a loving voice, and walking around with your baby close to your body. “But sometimes babies just need to cry,” Emanuel says, “so allow them to cry while you gently hold them and listen.” Emanuel also does infant massage and teaches parents her proven techniques.  www.WholeBodyLLC.com.

Sometimes, excessive gas triggers a baby’s long cries. So make sure air isn’t being swallowed while bottle-feeding, and burp your baby frequently (even when breastfeeding). You might also try altering your diet if you’re breastfeeding: avoid broccoli, beans, cabbage, spicy foods and caffeine.

If you’re still not finding relief – or if it seems to be something more serious and is accompanied by unusually shrill cries, lethargy, or vomiting – talk to your healthcare provider. And talk to other parents and professionals who deal with “colic” all the time. You’re not alone.