There's nothing cuter than a smiling baby, but there's also nothing more frustrating than a crying baby that just won't stop.

It's a helpless feeling to be unable to calm an upset infant, and even experienced caregivers sometimes run up against a big challenge.

If you can identify the reason for the baby's crying, that's the first step to fixing the problem. Common reasons include:

• They are too warm or too cold
• They're hungry
• They need a diaper change
• They're tired, restless or bored
• They have allergies
• They are sick
• They want comfort from being held or pacifying
• One of the quickest fixes is to change the scenery. Get up with the baby, walk around, show him or her new objects in the room—in short, provide a distraction. Other ideas to consider:
• Music—singing or recorded music
• Wind chimes
• Infant massage
• Pass gas—the baby, that is! Try bending their legs to help ease stomach pains.
• White noise—a fan or static on a radio can provide soothing background sounds.
• Hold your baby—Babies aren't fruit, and they won't spoil from handling!
• Get some air—going outside is fun!
• Put on a video—just like the rest of us, babies find television or videos to be distracting.
• Swaddle—wrapping a baby snugly in a blanket provides security.
• Dance—Motion and music really helps.
• Sleep—lay down with baby and relax.
• Mirror—looking in a mirror is a very interesting sensation for babies.
• Time out—go some place quiet if you think baby may be over-stimulated.
• Swing—baby swings or garden swings provide a comforting rocking motion.
• Drive—it's a classic way to calm a baby, but don't become dependent on it!
• Your voice---hold your baby to your chest and talk. The sound of your voice can be soothing.
• Perspective—remember that these rough times will fade all too soon and fussy baby days will be a thing of the past!

Published 04/03/09