If you’re a new mom, then you’ve probably seen your baby wail for hours. When this happens, you may feel helpless since you’re not aware of the reason behind the crying. At such times, the baby seems completely inconsolable day after day. This is called the “witching hour” and there’s no specific reason why it happens.
For some babies, the wails can last for less than an hour. However, there are those who cry for hours. If you have a baby who wails this long, it drains you physically and emotionally. Here are some tips that you can apply to help your little one go through the excruciating pain.
- Use a Variety of Soothing Strategies
You need to get innovative with your soothing styles. Using the same old strategies may not calm the baby down. Try different solutions such as talking to the infant, walking with him, showing them your pets or sky, and any other thing that may cause amusement or joy. You can swaddle, sing a lullaby, massage, or set the baby in a rocking chair.
- Keep the Baby Occupied
Activity can help keep your baby calm. Engage him, making sure he feels your focus is on them. If the baby is older, play a guessing or hunting game, letting them search for their hidden toy. A picture book might also be of great help.
- Time the “Sleep Window”
Over-tiredness can make your baby fight sleep. To avoid this, ensure that your darling sleeps well during the day. A nap once every two hours is not a bad idea. A baby’s daytime sleep won’t interfere with the one at night.
There’s usually a moment when your baby is drowsy enough to drift off to sleep quickly. This is called the “sleep window.” At this time, the baby isn’t so tired that he begins to cry. This is the opportune moment for you to put him down to take a nap. This may sound odd, but in real sense, babies can get so tired that they can’t sleep easily.
- Identify Early Signs of Sleep and Hunger
Don’t let your baby’s sleep and hunger cues go unnoticed. Otherwise, he’ll start crying and it may take longer to calm him down. To avoid this scenario, identify signs such as yawning, moving the head jerkily, and rubbing of the eyes to signify that he is drowsy. When the baby begins sticking his tongue out or licking fingers, it is a sign of hunger.
- Be Available
Your baby values your presence more than anything else, especially during the witching hour. Be there for him. Just be relaxed around your baby. Focus on him rather than on the pending chores you might be having in your house. If you’re a working parent, spend at least 10 minutes with your infant on the couch before doing anything else.
Conclusion
The witching hour can be very difficult for you and your baby since it’s hard to tell its cause. Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to calm down your darling, the most important being your availability. Your baby requires lots of attention and care. This is what can make the difference.
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