Settling a newborn primarily involves ensuring their basic needs are met and providing gentle comfort.
When a newborn is unsettled or crying, it's often their way of communicating a need. Addressing these needs first is crucial before attempting calming techniques.
Basic Checks to Settle Your Newborn
Before trying to soothe a crying baby, run through a quick checklist of common reasons for distress:
- Check Nappy Change: Ensure your baby is comfortable and dry by checking if they need a fresh nappy change. A wet or soiled nappy is a common source of discomfort.
- Check Temperature: Verify that your little one is at a comfortable temperature. Check if they are too hot or too cold. Feeling their neck or back can help gauge this.
- Check Feeding: Consider their feeding schedule. Confirm it hasn't been longer than 2 to 3 hours since their last feed. Hunger is a very frequent reason why newborns cry and are unsettled.
Gentle Comforting Techniques
Once you've addressed potential physical needs, you can help your newborn settle down using comforting methods:
- Gentle Touching: Provide reassurance through touch. This can include gently touching your baby, such as patting or stroking your baby in their cot. This physical closeness can be very calming.
- Soothing Sounds: Create a peaceful auditory environment. This can be achieved by using gentle shushing noises, settling music or white noise. These sounds can mimic the sounds of the womb and help block out startling noises.
By systematically checking basic needs and then applying gentle comforting techniques, you can help your newborn feel secure and settled.
