How to Soothe a Crying Baby
It is normal for babies to cry. It is how they communicate.
First, make sure all of the baby’s basic needs are met.
- Are they hungry?
- Do they need to be burped?
- Do they need a diaper change?
- Are they too hot? Too cold?
- Are they sick?
- Are they bored or lonely?
What if that doesn’t work?
- Stay Calm
- Gently Walk, Dance or Rock the Baby
- Take the Baby for a Ride in the Stroller or Car
- Turn on Music or Run the Vacuum – Babies like white noise
- Gently Massage the Baby
What if that doesn’t work either???
- It is OK to put the baby in a safe environment, like an empty crib or play yard, and walk away for a few minutes to calm down.
- Be sure to check on the baby every 10-15 minutes.
- It is OK to ask for help!
Never Shake a Baby!
- Shaking a baby can cause its head to move back and forth or side to side. This can injure the baby.
- Most of the time, a baby is shaken because the caregiver gets frustrated or angry.
- Most often, the caregiver gets frustrated because the baby won’t stop crying.
- Sometimes the caregiver gets frustrated because of problems with toilet training, feeding or other life stress.
How do I know if my baby has been shaken?
- Your baby may be unusually tired, fussy or quiet.
- They may become rigid and stiff, or really loose like a rag doll.
- They may throw up, have a hard time breathing or have seizures.
- If you think your baby has been shaken, call 911 immediately!
Prevent Child Abuse NY Parent Helpline
Open 24 hours – 7 days a week
1.800.342.7472
Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Plus
1.800.858.5222
National Information, Support, and Referral Service on Shaken Baby Syndrome
1.888.273.0071