Every baby cries.
It’s their first language. But when the crying feels nonstop, it can leave even the calmest parent feeling overwhelmed.
The good news? Most crying comes down to a few common needs. Here are three key things that help soothe a crying baby—and help you feel more confident, too.
1. Regulate the Body First (Comfort + Calm)
Babies are still learning how to manage their bodies. When they’re overwhelmed, they borrow your calm.
What helps most:
Swaddling (snug, but hips loose)
Skin-to-skin contact
Gentle motion (rocking, walking, stroller rides)
White noise (fans, sound machines, or a quiet “shhh”)
Why it works: these mimic the womb—warm, tight, rhythmic, and loud. A regulated body often leads to a calmer baby within minutes.
Pro tip: Try one comfort strategy at a time for 1–2 minutes before switching. Too many changes can overstimulate.
2. Check the Basics (Hunger, Gas, Diaper, Tiredness)
This sounds obvious—but it’s where most crying comes from, especially in the first 3 months.
Run through this quick checklist:
🍼 Hungry? (Even if they just ate—growth spurts are real.)
💨 Gassy? (Bicycle legs, tummy time, or burping again.)
👶 Wet or dirty diaper?
😴 Overtired? (Yawning, red eyebrows, staring off.)
Why it works: babies don’t cry “randomly.” They cry because something feels off, and they don’t yet have another way to tell you.
3. Remember: Crying Doesn’t Mean You’re Failing
This is the part no one says out loud.
Some babies cry even when all their needs are met. This is normal—especially in the evenings (“witching hour”) or during developmental leaps.
What helps you:
Put the baby down safely and take a few deep breaths
Ask for help—especially from daddy or another caregiver
Remind yourself: “My baby is having a hard moment, not giving me a hard time.”
A calm caregiver is one of the most powerful soothing tools a baby has.
When to Call the Doctor
Trust your instincts and reach out if crying is:
High-pitched or inconsolable
Paired with fever, vomiting, poor feeding, or lethargy
Very different from your baby’s usual cry
Summary
Soothing a crying baby isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about responding with care, consistency, and patience. You’re learning your baby, and your baby is learning the world. You’re doing better than you think.
Click here for more help with soothing a crying baby!