Most of the time babies cry for a reason they want something to eat, or they have a wet nappies, they are
cold, hot, fed up, in pain, tired, they are just like us but we can no longer cry about things.
The place to start with a crying baby is to find the source of the pain, it is logical but it can be hard to think when
a child is crying. Ask yourself these questions -
Is their nappy is dirty ?, if it is change it, horrible, but it is one of the joys of being a dad.
Are they hungry? When were they last feed? If not recently try milk either breast or
formula depending on which the child gets.
Have they got wind? Small babies get a lot of wind, so try and see, place the childs head over your shoulder
and gently rub or pat their back it can take a while so don't give up after a few seconds, you will be amazed at the sounds
that come out of such a small thing.
Are they too hot ? Check that they don't have a temprature and that they are not sick i.e no
symtoms of teething, cold rash or anything, if they are sick take the appropriate action.
Check the temperature in the room is ok? the ideal temperature is 16-20 degrees Celsius. Use a thermometer
to keep track of temperature in your baby's room. Take the appropriate action.
Are they tired? is it time for a napp, if so put them down and see
If they are not sick, hungry, wet, too hot or cold, have wind then our mums suggest that you try some or
all of these tricks
- Rock them gently - Sounds silly but try rocking your child they love movement so gentle rock them or
put them up to your shoulder and move around the floor with them, good exercise but can be trying if it is 4 in the morning.
- Make a noise - Babies love noise so make noises at them or sing or try some music or TV in the back ground
you have to remember that they are used to the sound of your heart in the womb noise makes them feel safe.
- Sing a song - To sing and gentle rock a child often has the desired affect, the oldies are often still
the goodies.
- Get naked - Placing the baby next to your skin works well, take off your shirt and place the baby on
your chest alternatively use a sling that means you can get on with things while you try it.
Sometimes you have to fall back on the oldest standby of all hand the baby to its mum and say that you have tried but they
must just want their mum, it may result in a dirty look of clip around the ear but just sometimes what else can you do, and
you can be sure your partner will do the same thing to you, the point is to try!!.
If you have any concerns about your childs crying the seek advice fron medical professional
