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.
