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SLEEPY Tips for Soothing a Fussy Baby

Dr. Jen’s SLEEPY Tips for Soothing a Fussy Baby:

Swaddle: Babies under the age of four months may be safely swaddled in a thin blanket designed for swaddling, or a regular thin blanket used in an appropriate manner.

Love: Holding your baby and showing physical affection through rhythmic rubbing (stroking her belly, rubbing his back) may serve as a calming measure to a fuzzy baby.

Eat: Aren’t you cranky when you are hungry? Make sure not to over-feed your baby, but also keep track of your baby’s intake for the day and follow your pediatrician’s instructions. Also, non-nutritive sucking (pacifiers) may be soothing to a fussy little one.

Examine: Keep track of patterns when your baby is particularly fussy. Pay attention to decreased food intake, a temperature or excessive/unusual behavior and call your pediatrician for guidance.

Pace: Hold your baby and walk in your house, or if weather permits, take baby outside for a stroll.

You: A fussy baby can be stressful on a parent. Be sure to pay attention to your own emotional well-being and utilize whatever support system you have when feeling overwhelmed. If you are feeling frustrated with your baby’s cry, put your baby down (on his or her back) in the crib and take a breather.

About the Author

Dr. Jen Canter's picture
Dr. Jen Canter, aka “Dr. Jen®” is a double board certified pediatrician, professor, researcher, published author, and, last but not least, mom to two sets of twins. In all her spare time, she’s an entrepreneur! In 2008 she invented the U-Play Mat®, now licensed by Sassy Baby® for the mass-market baby toy category, and started a fun & cool adventure. Dr. Jen believes play can permeate every aspect of parenthood, from exercising and eating well to using love and laughter to raise happy, well-adjusted little people who can tackle anything life hands to them with creativity & self-assurance. Dr. Jen chronicles her journey as a professional and a mom, while at the same time sharing her hard-earned wisdom with warmth, wit and a healthy dose of humor. Because she understands the darker side of parenthood as one of a handful of Child Abuse Pediatricians nationwide, Dr. Jen is committed to leading a life filled with light & balance. Have a playdate with Dr. Jen by going to her website: www.playthisway.com