How to Deal With a Fussy Baby

Babies bring such joy to a household. Even though they bring their gurgling noises, laughter and fascination with the world around them, they can also pack a great deal of unpleasant noise, such as crying. Each baby has his own little personality. It’s often unpredictable, and it can range from happy to fussy with little to no notice. A fussy baby can cause havoc whether in public or at home. Keep your baby happy–and yourself sane–by learning ways to deal with your fussy baby.

Step 1

Identify the reason why your baby is fussy. Babies are typically fussy when they’re hungry, sick, sleepy, or have a wet or smelly diaper. Baby Center, an online parenting network, notes that babies also get fussy when they want to be held, are teething or need to burp.

Step 2

Check for signs that your baby has colic. Babies who cry at least three times a week, for more than three hours at a time, likely suffer from colic. MayoClinic.com reports that a baby with colic will likely cry around the same time each day or night, be inconsolable, clench his fists and curl up his legs while crying.

Step 3

Check the temperature. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, your fussy baby may be trying to tell you that he’s too hot or too cold. The Baby Center suggests that–to be at a comfortable temperature–newborn babies are most comfortable when they are bundled up, and when they are wearing one more layer than what a parent is wearing.

Step 4

Take your baby in your arms and rock him. You don’t need a rocking chair for this soothing technique. Simply hold your baby close, while seated in a chair or on the bed, and begin rocking. Family Education, an online resource for parents, suggest doing one rock per second, as the motion is similar to the speed of a rocking chair.

Step 5

Use the power of sound to calm your fussy baby. WebMD notes that many babies find comfort in sounds that mimic the sound of the womb. Try different sounds and identify the ones that work to soothe your baby. WebMD suggests making a recording of the sound and playing it whenever the baby is upset.

Step 6

Hit the streets with your baby in his stroller and take a walk around the neighborhood. Fresh air and the motion of the stroller gliding against the pavement can help soothe your fussy baby. Opt for a smooth walking route; avoid bumpy streets and sidewalks. A walk can soothe your baby and give you some exercise at the same time.