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{This is a collaborative post}
Having a fractious, unsettled baby can be stressful and tiring for parents and foster carers. Babies cry for many reasons - hunger, discomfort, overstimulation or just needing comfort. While crying is normal, a very fractious baby who cries for hours on end without being soothed can be exhausting. Here are some tips to help settle a fractious baby.
Establish a Bedtime Routine
Having a consistent, calming bedtime routine is important to
help baby wind down and get ready for sleep. This could include activities like
a warm bath, infant massage, putting on pyjamas, reading a story and singing
lullabies. Keep lights dimmed, speak softly and avoid overstimulation. The
routine, done in the same order each night, helps signal to baby that it’s time
to sleep. This applies to all babies, including foster babies if you are with
an agency like Foster Care Associates Essex.
Swaddle Your Baby
Many babies love being wrapped up snugly in a light muslin
or cotton cloth - it reminds them of being cocooned in the womb and makes them
feel secure. Ensure arms are down by baby’s sides rather than strait jackets
across their chest as this can be unsafe. Stop swaddling as soon as baby shows
signs of being able to roll over.
Use White Noise
White noise that mimics sounds from the womb, like a fan, the
vacuum cleaner or special white noise baby apps, can help soothe and calm
fractious babies. The constant, familiar sounds block out abrupt noises that
can startle them awake. Use white noise when putting baby down to sleep, and if
they stir in the night.
Employ Gentle Motion
Many babies love gentle motion and find it calming. Hold baby close and sway, rock or walk with them. Push them in their pram or put them in a sling. Drive them in the car. The repetitive motion reminds them of being rocked in the womb. You can also try special baby swings or rockers, but always supervise.
Try Baby Massage
Gentle baby massage can help soothe and relax fractious
babies. Use a little baby-friendly oil and make stroking, circular motions on
baby’s back, tummy, arms and legs. This loving skin-on-skin contact releases
calming oxytocin in both baby and parent. Avoid massaging soon after a feed
when baby is full.
Keep Baby Close By
Babies feel most secure when close to caregivers. Having
your fractious baby near you, held in a sling or baby carrier if you need your
hands free, helps them feel safe and comforted. Co-sleep safely following NHS
guidelines if needed, so you can quickly soothe baby when fractious during the
night.
Check for Causes of Discomfort
Discomfort from things like a wet or soiled nappy, trapped
wind, reflux or even an itchy clothing tag can make some babies fractious. Try
changing their nappy, burping, massage and different clothes to see if it helps baby
settle. Check temperature - too hot or cold can be disturbing.
Avoid Overtiredness
Overtired, overstimulated babies have trouble settling and
often become fractious. Learn your baby’s tired signals like rubbing eyes or
ears, yawning and getting grizzly. Put them down to sleep at the first signs of
tiredness and avoid keeping them up too long. Stick to age-appropriate wake
times.
By following these tips, hopefully both baby and parents can
get some much-needed rest and calm. However, if your baby remains very
fractious despite your best efforts, do see your GP in case of any underlying
issues. With time and patience, most babies grow out of a very fractious stage
as they develop.
