Here are a few ways to soothe a crying baby:

• Try playing soft, gentle music for comfort.
• Talk to your baby. The sound of your voice may be reassuring. Your baby may also be calmed by the hum or sound of a fan or clothes dryer.
• Change the infant's position.
• Hold your baby close to your chest. Sometimes, infants need to experience familiar sensations, such as the sound of your voice in your chest, your heartbeat, the feel of your skin, the smell of your breath, the movement of your body, and the comfort of your hug. In the past, babies were held constantly and the absence of a parent meant danger from predators or abandonment. You cannot spoil a baby by holding him or her during infancy.

If the crying continues for longer than usual and your baby is not consoled by any of the methods listed above, call a health care provider for advice.

Try to get enough rest. Exhausted parents are less able to care for their baby. Use the resources of family, friends, or outside caregivers to allow yourself time to recover your energy. This will also be helpful for your baby. It does not mean that you are a bad parent or are abandoning your child.

For most of human history, people raised their children with the aid of extended families, so there was less pressure on the parents than there is now. A baby's grandparents may be very helpful. Don't worry that they won't do everything the way you would. As long as they are taking safety precautions and comforting the baby when necessary, you may be sure that your child is well cared for during your break.

Call your health care provider immediately if your baby's crying is associated with any significant symptoms, such as fever, diarrhea, vomiting, rash, breathing difficulty, or other signs of illness.

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Review Date: 11/02/2009
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)