Soothing Your Baby When She Cries

Babies cry when they need to be fed, changed, cuddled or calmed, or when they don't feel well.

• Respond quickly when your baby cries during the first few months of life. If you respond quickly to your baby's cries, she may cry less overall.
• To soothe your baby, play soft music, walk with her, rock her, hold her in a sling or front carrier, or swaddle her in a blanket as you carry or hold her. Car rides and soft noises, like running water, sometimes can be soothing. Record sounds or buy CDs that calm your baby.
• Call your baby's provider if you can't soothe her or if she pulls up her legs or passes gas often. She may have colic (intense crying for more than 3 hours a day).

For more information about crying, watch the March of Dimes video or visit our interactive program Understanding Your Newborn.

October 2008