Why Is My Baby Crying?

Hush Little Baby – Why Is My Baby Crying?

Parenting a crying baby can be a difficult task and lead to a lot of stress for both the mother and father of the little one. In most cases, the shock of the intense shrieks will send any parent into overdrive, when sometimes you might just need a chart to double check if you have cause for concern.

Even though some babies might cry more than others and some for no apparent reason, there are certain things you can do to try and soothe your baby. Have a look at these common crying baby problems and how to handle them:

Why Is My Baby Crying? Here are a couple of reasons:

The Problem: Basic Needs

Your little one will most likely be crying over one or two basic human needs. The first thing you should ask yourself is “Is my baby hungry” or ‘Do they need a diaper change”.

The Solution

Luckily the solution is as easy as changing the diaper and feeding your baby.

The Problem: Overstimulation

Ever had your peaceful shopping stroll with your baby turn into screams out of a horror movie? This might be because there is too much stimulation for the baby in your immediate surroundings. Think of the bright lights, crowds, and unfamiliar sounds; it’s enough to scare anyone that is new to it all.

The Solution

Learn your baby’s limits and what she/he feels comfortable with. If shopping is not their thing limit these visits and don’t tag your little one along to an hour long lunch in a busy restaurant, rather opt for a tea date at home. Schedule quiet time with your baby after these chaotic moments to calm and soothe them.

The Problem: Tummy Troubles

One of the most common causes for crying is either when your baby is in pain or uncomfortable. A lot of the times, your baby might be having stomach problems such as gas or indigestion. Also consider the on-the-go meals you are feeding your little one, certain foods might be causing problems.

The Solution

Relieve your baby from gas by holding their feet while they are flat on their backs and moving their legs in a circular ‘cycling’ motion. If your baby is crying for hours on end during the beginning and end of the day, it might also be colic. Look into all possible symptoms and contact your health provider if you are concerned.

The Problem: Temperature Temper

You might be checking every possible symptom for your baby’s cries only to realise that they are dressed in one layer of clothing with their ears almost freezing off on a winter’s day. Even the opposite can be true. Dressing your baby in too many layers of clothing on a hot day can make them irritable. Babies are sensitive to temperature change and this might even be the reason for crying while you take of their clothes for a nappy change.

The Solution

Clothe your baby in about one more layer than you are wearing. Babies, in general, like to be kept warm, so be sure to add some mittens and beanies when you introduce your baby to colder temperatures. Don’t be scared to let your baby be on only his/her nappy on a hot day!

The Problem: Tension Control

Your tone of voice and conversations with your husband might be the last thing perceived as the cause for your baby’s crying, but babies are very sensitive to conflict and tension within the home. Even if they don’t understand what you are arguing about, your attitude and tone of voice can bring tears to their eyes.

The Solution

Even though tension will be flying high during the first phases of caring for a newborn, try to keep your conversation and attitude calm and soothing around the baby. There is a time and a place for your arguments and intense discussions.

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Is my Baby Overstimulated

Article by: Anneke Steenkamp

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