| FUSSY BABIES - part II - A SURVIVAL GUIDE By Teri Allen, OTR A baby's cry is a strong form of communication that demands attention. Fussy babies seem to cry more than other babies. Once they start crying, it may take considerable time and effort to calm them. There are some things you can do to reduce the problem. First, become an expert at reading your baby's signals and try to respond to his needs before he cries. Watch for subtle facial expressions or gestures that indicate he is getting distressed. Common signals of discomfort include: 1. Stiffening or tensing of muscles. 2. Rapid flexing and stretching of arms and legs. 3. Clenching of fists. 4. Arching of the back. 5. Hand to ear. 6. Looking or turning away. 7.Change in facial color ( blotching/redness ) 8. Knit or furrowed brow. 9. Yawning, hiccups, sighing. Once you develop skill at reading your baby's signals, you need to look for the sources of his distress. Is he hungry, wet, hurt, sick, lonely? Fussy babies may be distressed by things that wouldn't bother other babies. Many are hyper excitable. They may cry if a noise is too loud, a light too bright, a smell unfamiliar or a person too close. Even the most sensitive and attentive parent may miss a signal or be in a situation where they cannot respond before their baby starts to cry. When this happens, respond as quickly as you can. "Babies who receive an immediate nurturing response to their cries, eventually cry less frequently and with less intensity. When they do cry, their cries are less disturbing". * Unfortunately, there is no magic formula for calming your baby. Techniques of calming tend to fall into one of four categories: 1. Rhythmic movement - rocking, bouncing, swinging, car rides. 2. Physical contact - holding, swaddling, massage. 3. Soothing or monotonous noise - singing, humming, fans. 4. Sucking - feeding, pacifiers. If you have a fussy baby, you have probably heard all of these suggestions and more! Try applying these rules to the advice you get. 1. Use a combination of techniques such as rhythmic movement and soothing sound. This is generally more effective than using a technique from just one category. 2. Stick with the technique you choose for at least 5 minutes before you switch to something else. 3. Read your babies signals while you are trying to calm him, this will help you determine what techniques are most effective. 4. Try to stay calm. Your baby is dependent on your help and patience. Finally, take care of yourself! If you can get additional help with other children or the household duties, take advantage of it. Try to do something you enjoy at least once a week. If you can find the energy to respond to your fussy baby's signals with patience and warmth, you may be delighted at the unique and sensitive person he grown up to be! *Sears, The Fussy baby, Signet, 1989. |
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