As a new parent, one of the most challenging situations you will face is trying to soothe a crying baby. Babies cry for various reasons such as hunger, discomfort, boredom, and tiredness.

It can be daunting and frustrating to figure out why your baby is crying and how to comfort them.

Here are some tips and techniques, compiled by Cologic, on how to soothe and calm a crying baby.

1. Swaddle the Baby

Swaddling is one of the most effective ways to comfort a crying baby. Wrapping your baby snugly in a blanket will remind them of the warmth and coziness of the womb. Swaddling can also help to prevent the baby from startling themselves awake.

2. Rock the Baby

Rocking the baby back and forth gently is a great way to soothe them. You can hold your baby close and sway side to side or sit in a rocking chair.

3. Sing a Lullaby or Quiet Song

Singing a lullaby, or any quiet and soothing song, can be very comforting to a crying baby. The sound of your voice and the rhythm of the song can help to soothe and calm down the baby.

4. Provide a Pacifier

Pacifiers can be useful for soothing a crying baby. Sucking on a pacifier can help to calm the baby and distract them from whatever was causing them to cry.

5. Provide White Noise

White noise can be a great way to soothe a crying baby. The sound of a fan, vacuum cleaner, or white noise machine can mimic the sounds of the womb and help to calm the baby.

6. Offer a Massage

A gentle massage can be very comforting to a crying baby. Use gentle strokes and circular motions to massage their back, arms, and legs.

7. Change the Baby’s Diaper

A dirty or wet diaper can cause discomfort and make a baby cranky. Changing the baby’s diaper can help to alleviate their discomfort and calm them down.

8. Check for Hunger

If your baby is crying, they may be hungry. Try feeding them, and see if they calm down once they have had something to eat.

9. Use a Baby Carrier

Wearing your baby in a baby carrier can be an excellent way to soothe a crying baby. The close contact and warmth can be comforting to the baby, and the movement can help to calm them down.

10. Take a Walk

Going for a walk outside with your baby can be a great way to soothe them. The fresh air, movement, and change of scenery can help to distract them and calm them down.

11. Use a Swing

Putting your baby in a swing can be an effective way to soothe them. The gentle motion can help to calm them down and distract them from whatever was causing them to cry.

12. Try Skin-to-Skin Contact

Snuggling with your baby while having skin-to-skin contact can be a great way to soothe them. It can help to regulate their breathing, body temperature, and heart rate, making them feel safe and calm.

13. Play Some Music

Playing some calming music can be helpful in soothing your baby. Soft, soothing music can help to create a peaceful atmosphere and distract the baby from crying.

14. Try a Different Temperature

A change in temperature can sometimes help to soothe a crying baby. Try adjusting the room temperature, using a warmer or cooler blanket, or even taking your baby outside for some fresh air.

15. Use a Teething Toy

If your baby is teething, they may be in pain and discomfort. A teething toy can provide some relief and help to soothe them.

16. Give Them a Bath

A warm bath can be very calming for a crying baby. The warm water can help to relax their muscles and ease any discomfort they may be feeling.

17. Do Some Skin-to-Skin Kangaroo Care

Kangaroo care involves holding your baby directly against your bare skin. It can be especially helpful for premature babies or those who have health problems. The close contact and warmth can be very soothing for the baby.

18. Try Bicycle Legs

Bicycle legs involve gently moving your baby’s legs in a circular motion. It can help to relieve gas and colic symptoms, which may be causing discomfort and crying.

19. Change the Baby’s Clothes

Uncomfortable clothing can sometimes cause a baby to be fussy and cranky. Try changing into something more comfortable and loose-fitting.

20. Try Holding Them Differently

Experiment with different holding positions to find one that is most comfortable for your baby. Some babies prefer to be held upright, while others prefer to be held on their side or stomach.

21. Massage the Baby’s Gums

If your baby is teething, gently massaging their gums with a clean finger can provide some relief and help to soothe them.

22. Use Aromatherapy

Certain scents can be very calming and soothing for a crying baby. Essential oils such as lavender or chamomile can be used in a diffuser or added to a bath to help calm your baby.

23. Offer a Favorite Toy

A favorite toy can be a great way to distract your baby from whatever was causing them to cry. Offer them a soft toy or something that they can hold onto.

24. Check for Overstimulation

Overstimulation can sometimes cause a baby to cry. Try reducing the noise and activity level in the room and see if that helps to calm your baby down.

25. Provide a Calming Image

A calming image such as a mobile or a toy with a soothing light projection can be great for distracting your baby and promoting sleep.

26. Snack Time

For older babies, try offering some healthy snacks such as fruits or crackers. This can help those who are hungry to calm down.

27. Offer a Warm Compress

For babies that suffer from stomach discomfort, try offering a warm compress to soothe and calm them down.

28. Use a Lovey

A lovey is a small stuffed animal or blanket that your baby can hold onto for comfort. This can be helpful when trying to soothe and calm a crying baby.

29. Establish a Routine

Establishing a routine can help your baby to feel more secure and comforted. Try to establish a regular bedtime routine that involves calming activities such as reading a book or singing a lullaby.

30. Seek Support

If you are struggling to soothe and calm your crying baby, seek support from a healthcare provider, parent group or family members. You don’t have to do it all alone!.

Conclusion

Every baby is unique, and what works to soothe one may not work for another. So, experiment with different techniques until you find what works best for your baby. Remember that it is normal for babies to cry, and that it is part of their development.

With time, patience, and love, you will become more confident in your ability to comfort and calm your precious little one.