How can I keep my baby safe?
Sometimes a baby just won't stop crying and almost all parents have times when they feel at breaking point. Make a plan so you know what to do if your baby won't stop crying.
Understand why they cry
Crying is normal for a baby. It's their way of communicating and doesn't mean they're being naughty. But sometimes a baby just won't stop crying, and almost all parents have times when they feel like they're at breaking point.
If your baby is crying, go through this checklist:
- Does your baby need feeding or a nappy change?
- Is your baby's clothing too tight?
- Are there signs that they might be ill? - if so call a doctor.
- Are they teething?
- Make sure your baby isn't too hot or cold.
- Is baby tired? Put baby down somewhere safe to sleep.
I've done all this and baby's still crying... now what?
Try this:
- Burp your baby
- Wrap and hold baby safely in a light weight blanket
- Hold your baby close, walk gently with them, sing to them, or try a soothing bath (never leave baby unattended in the bath)
- Try a walk outside in their stroller or a drive around the block.
If they still won't stop crying count to ten and take a break. When you are ready, come back and comfort them.
Shaken Baby Syndrome is easy to prevent
- Make a plan so that you know what to do if your baby won't stop crying.
- Go through the crying checklist.Then if the baby still won't stop crying....
- Walk away from your baby. If you're feeling frustrated, don't pick your baby up. Make sure they are safe, then walk away.
- Call a friend. Everyone needs help sometimes. Make sure you have someone you can call when you need to talk.
- Do something to relax. You can:
- count slowly to ten
- do something that distracts you
- do something that will help you feel calm
- Check on your baby regularly, but don't pick them up until you feel calm.
