When your baby is crying for a prolonged period of time, it can be quite overwhelming. Just remember that babies cry for a reason.

• Hunger
• Tiredness
• Wet or Poopy Diaper
• Over Stimulation
• Stranger Anxiety
• Separation Anxiety
• Stomach Pains / Gas
• Colic
• Sickness / Fever
• Other Injuries or Medical Conditions

When your baby cannot communicate and tell you exactly what is wrong, it is up to you to find out. Go through the possible problems and solutions. If she is hungry, feed her. Change her diaper. Put her down for a nap. If none of these solutions work to stop your baby’s crying, you can try some of these techniques:

• Infant Massage: Get your baby naked and lay her on a towel. Get some baby lotion and begin to massage her from feet to head. For more information on infant massage techniques, click here.

• Jostle & Walk: Walk around with your baby over your shoulder. Jostle her lightly. The pressure on her tummy may ease any pain, and the rocking may put her to sleep.

• Rock Your Baby: Rocking baby reminds her of being in the womb. It is very soothing and calming to your baby. Add nursing or a pacifier for an added effect.

• Nurse: Even if your baby is not hungry, the soothing power of a mother’s breast is great for calming baby.

• Pacifier: Just what the name says, it pacifies any crying!

• Squats - Mike Kunkle Technique: This was submitted by a father of four. While holding baby over your shoulder and walking, squat like your sitting in a chair quickly. Stand up straight and repeat every few seconds. Besides working your quads, the roller coaster effect for your baby is somehow soothing.

• Warm Bath: A warm bath soothes all of us.

• Baby Swing: Invest in a good baby swing. This puts many babies at ease.

• Car Seat: Put your baby in her car seat and drive around for a while. The motion of the car will soothe baby to sleep.

• Distraction: Distract your baby with a toy or activity.

• Tummy Time: If your baby is having stomach pains, put baby on her tummy with you in the room and rub her back.

• Take a Break: If you are getting overwhelmed and anxious, your baby will sense this and lead to more crying. Try putting her into a safe place (like her crib) and walk out of the room and lie down on your bed for a few minutes. A little crying doesn’t hurt your baby and she may need to vent. Once you’ve taken some deep breaths and have calmed down, go back in and try some more techniques.

If you have tried everything and your baby does not want to stop crying, she may have colic or another medical condition. Call your Pediatrician for an appointment.

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