Life with a new baby is one of the most special seasons of parenthood. There is nothing like the soft newborn snuggles, the sweet closeness, and intimacy of those first months. For a family with a colicky baby though, this season can be incredibly stressful for both the parents and the sweet baby. Studies are varied as to what the actual percentage is of babies who suffer from colic but everyone will agree that it is a common ailment in our society. Here are ten tips for soothing your colicky baby.
1. Massage
A gentle massage can help soothe a colicky baby. Using a mild oil and gently rubbing the baby's arms and legs can be very comforting to your little one. A circular clockwise motion around the baby's bellybutton area can also help move gas and soothe his or her belly.
2. Warm Bath
Just the sound of running water can be soothing to a little one. Giving your baby a warm soak with dim lighting could help to calm your baby. Making this gentle bath a part of your evening routine would be a wonderful end to your day.
3. Music
Sometimes gentle music can be very comforting for a baby when they are not feeling well. Play around with different types of music to determine what your baby's preferences are. Handel's Water Music has been known to be very beneficial for infants.
4. Swaddle
Babies love close confinement. It gives them a feeling of security such as they had in the womb. These muslin swaddle blankets are a must-have for your colicky baby. Wrapping them up tightly in the swaddle blanket and rocking them to sleep can be very effectual.
5. Football Hold
Carrying your baby with their tummy pressed against your arm with them facing outward is very helpful for a colicky baby. A gentle bounce or sway while using this football hold can make all the difference.
6. Chiropractic Care
Studies have shown that up to 95% of colicky babies have responded favorably to chiropractic care. Consider finding a chiropractor who has experience with newborns and you might find that a gentle adjustment could make all the difference.
7. Consider Food Allergies
Some babies are very sensitive to certain foods in the first several months of their life. If you are breastfeeding you might want to think about your diet and whether your baby could be reacting to something you are eating. Keeping a journal of your meals and snacks can be very helpful. Dairy, chocolate, certain vegetables, and nuts are common allergens. If you are feeding your infant formula, perhaps your little one is allergic to soy.
8. Baby Probiotics
Some parents have found that giving their children infant probiotics or gripe water can do wonders for soothing a colicky baby. Infant digestive enzymes can be another remedy very helpful.
9. Car Ride
This is a tried and true secret that even our parents used when we were children. Try putting your infant in the car and taking a nice ride.The gentle bounce and rhythm of the car along with the hum of the engine can lull a frantically upset infant to sleep in just a few minutes.
10. Stay Calm
A colicky baby can unnerve even the most patient parent. But, remaining calm is essential in the soothing of your little one. Your baby can pick up on your emotions and feed off of how you are feeling. If you are worried, upset, impatient or frightened your child will feel that way as well. If you need to, ask your partner for few minute breaks to calm your nerves. Step outside and breathe deeply the fresh air. Seek to remain calm and loving in helping your colicky baby.
In conclusion, dealing with a colicky infant can be incredibly stressful. Not being able to soothe your little one is one of the hardest challenges a parent can face. Remember that by 3-5 months a baby has often outgrown their colic and this will be but a memory. Take heart and remember that this is a season that will pass.
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