Sometimes it’s simply a matter of using common sense to address your baby’s cries, and other times you may have to think a little outside the box. The following suggestions are methods you can use to soothe your baby during their witching hour. If you sense that something beyond normal fussiness is going on with your child, always call your pediatrician for insights into potential problems. Breastfeeding babies often engage in a pattern called cluster feeding. Resist the temptation to watch the clock in order to determine when to feed your baby, and instead watch for feeding cues. For formula-feeding babies, it may be difficult to figure out exactly how much to feed and how often. Formula needs can be estimated using a baby’s weight and the number of times fed in 24 hours, or by using rough estimates by age. Always talk to your pediatrician if you are concerned that your baby is eating too little or too much.
Is the diaper wet? Some babies simply will not tolerate diapers that are even slightly wet. Is the diaper too tight? Check to see if the diaper is too snug; it may be time to move to the next size. Is the diaper uncomfortable? Some babies are particularly sensitive to certain diaper brands. You may need to experiment to find the right brand for your baby, or try cloth diapers. Does your baby need to burp? You may need to try different burping positions rather than the traditional over-the-shoulder method. Try burping your baby while they are sitting upright or lying across your lap. Does your baby have gas? Gentle pressure on the tummy may help to relieve gas pains. Tummy time or positioning your baby across your lap belly-side down might help.
Some research studies on preterm infants have shown that kangaroo care helps stabilize breathing, improves heart rate, promotes successful breastfeeding, and enhances parent-child bonding. All of these benefits may contribute to decreasing the fussy periods your baby experiences. Part of learning which position works well to soothe your baby is about trying different positions and seeing how your baby responds. As the weeks progress and you get to know your baby better, you might find the exact position they like. Additionally, consider taking a bath with your baby. Doing so combines the relaxing warm water with skin-to-skin contact comforts. Always follow safety precautions when bathing your baby. Consider these ways to create white noise that may alleviate colic and general fussiness.
The hum of a clothes dryer or other household appliances, such as a vacuum cleaner or hairdryer"White noise" machinesCDs or MP3s that play womb sounds
Whether it is the physical closeness to the parent or the movement and motion sensations that work to quell crying, it isn’t specifically known. However, that likely won’t matter to you if this technique does work for you and your baby.
A slow-moving ceiling fan Clothing tumbling in a front-loading washer or dryer Infant mobiles (always follow safety guideline for baby mobiles)
