Advice History

If I act more calm and relaxed, will that help my baby to relax?

Your baby's anxiety isn't half that of your own.

If you can work towards being a relaxed, patient and focused parent yourself, your child will pick up on those vibes and most likely become more at ease herself.

If you're totally strung-out and distracted, your child -- from baby to toddler to teen -- will get that you're not fully present, and that will exacerbate matters.

Also, if your baby gets inconsolable, it is important that you stay calm. This can be very difficult especially if you are going through a twenty minute non-stop crying fit but the calmer you can be, the better it is for the baby. They really need you at this moment and the more soothing, calming and patient you are, the better it will be for your baby.

I have heard that music can be soothing to a child...is it a good idea to put music on to help console my baby?

Babies are just like adults - what works for one might not work for another. But many babies enjoy soft, soothing music, and it can help them relax. Look for something very rhythmic with simple, gentle voices or none at all. Lullaby CDs, nature sounds, and classical music are all good to try.

But if your baby is upset because of overstimulation, music may not work. In that case, you could try rocking baby in a quiet room, with only the sound of your voice to comfort him.