Babies cry&mdash;and some more than others. As a parent, it can be unnerving to see your little one upset.&nbsp;&nbsp;
It may help to remind yourself that crying is how babies communicate. You can't always make the crying stop. But you can always respond and comfort.&nbsp;
When your baby fusses, these are some of the best tips and tricks. With time, you'll discover what best comforts your little one.
1. Be a baby whisperer.&nbsp;
Try to figure out what your wee one is trying to tell you. For example, after a feeding, your baby may need a good burp. Or are they hungry? Overtired? Wet?&nbsp;
2. Swaddle your baby.&nbsp;
Wrapping babies snugly in a receiving blanket can help them feel secure. Ask your doctor or nurse <a href="https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Swaddling-Is-it-Safe.aspx" target="_blank">how to swaddle safely</a>. And follow <a href="[BASEDOMAIN]/HealthInfo/Story.aspx?StoryId=8916cc52-5173-4b95-b7d0-f59f6cc0e155">safe sleep recommendations</a>.
3. Soothe with sound.&nbsp;
Try a white noise device or the hum of a washing machine or vacuum cleaner.&nbsp;
4. Sing a song.&nbsp;
Even if you miss some notes, your voice may be the most comforting sound of all.&nbsp;
5. Rock the tears away.&nbsp;
Cuddle together in a rocking chair. Or sway from side to side as you hold your baby in your arms.&nbsp;
6. Hold your baby skin to skin.&nbsp;
Close contact often helps calm and comfort babies.&nbsp;
7. Let warmth work its magic.&nbsp;
A warm bath or towel may mellow a cranky babe.&nbsp;
8. Do some "babywearing."&nbsp;
Strap your little one into a baby carrier and walk about. Rhythmic motions and being held close help soothe babies.
9. Go for a drive.&nbsp;
A car's motion may help soothe a fussy baby. Be sure your precious cargo is buckled up safely in a car seat.
10. Offer a pacifier.
Some babies are soothed by pacifiers. If you're a nursing mom, experts say to wait until <a href="[BASEDOMAIN]/HealthInfo/Story.aspx?StoryId=074f0a45-caf7-4f11-9894-35072329417e">breastfeeding</a> is going well before introducing a pacifier.
What's more, some studies show giving babies pacifiers at bedtime and for naps reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Offer, but never force a baby to accept one.&nbsp;
Soothe yourself
If you can't calm your baby, take a few minutes to calm yourself. Count to 10 and breathe deeply. Or while your baby is in a safe place like a crib, step away for a few minutes. The more cool and collected you are, the more soothing you can be to your baby.
Is it colic?&nbsp;
Does your baby cry inconsolably for more than three hours a day for no apparent reason? Then it may be colic. Typically, these cranky and crying spells occur around the same time each day. The spells may be worse in the evening, but they can happen anytime. Talk with your child's doctor and <a href="https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Colic.aspx" target="_blank">learn more about colic</a>.&nbsp;
Sources: <a href="https://familydoctor.org/" target="_blank">American Academy of Family Physicians</a>; <a href="https://www.healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">American Academy of Pediatrics</a> 

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Reviewed 12/19/2023
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10 ways to soothe a fussy baby