Daddy's survival tips to calm a crying baby

All babies cry. They cry a lot in the first year and most of all in the first three months. Of course, this is also the time when it's all new to you, especially the dads and it's easy to panic or worry that you're doing something wrong. The best way is to start by understanding that crying is Baby's only way of communicating and you'll be well on the way to dealing with it. Somehow the mother's get it faster because of the time they spend with the baby, but if you pay attention and listen, you'll pretty soon be able to tell the difference between 'I'm hurt' and 'I'm bored' and everything will be fine.

Basic reasons why babies cry

Babies have a very small number of needs and each one has its own unique cry. There are three main reasons babies cry, so always check for these first.

1. I'm Hungry
2. I'm Uncomfortable
3. I'm tired and bored

While these 3 things will explain most of the crying there are other things that might be bothering your little one.

1. Crying due to pain: You surely will be able to make that out versus the tired cry or the hungry cry.
2. Not feeling well: Check for signs of a rash, high temperature hard/ gassy tummy and contact your GP immediately.
3. Scared and unsafe: Babies can get scared of every small, new and not accustomed to environment. Make sure you are around when they meet strangers and even are exposed to not the usual sounds like that of a vacuum cleaner or any other electronic appliance in the house.

You've taken care of the obvious things - feeding, changing, whatever. But it just won't stop. Here are some things that might help.

• Soothing background music or a particular noise they are used to.
• Going outdoors for a walk or a drive helps sometimes.
• Sing a lullaby or a nursery rhyme.
• Your voice makes the baby feel secure and safe. Talk to the baby in soft tones.
• Rocking the baby to sleep may help them feel safe and secure.
• Some Don'ts that might harm the baby while you are trying to stop them from crying
• Never shake your baby suddenly while they are crying. This can cause a lasting brain damage and even internal bleeding.
• Do not get angry in front of the baby when they are crying as they sense the tension and it only gets worse from there.
• Do not shout as it would again have a lasting negative impact on the baby.