How to Calm a VERY Fussy Newborn Baby
Soft whispers and gentle rocking are perfect for calm babies. But very fussy newborns need a bit more vigor to help them calm and fall asleep. This sounds as wrong as the advice to add a slimy, raw egg to a cake mix…yet it’s definitely the best way to calm very fussy newborns at night!
How to Calm VERY Fussy Newborns at Night That Won’t Sleep
Think of turning on the calming reflex like getting someone’s attention. If a person is engaged in a heated argument, you may have to tap his shoulder several times––very emphatically––just to get him to respond.
Vigor is exactly why vacuum sounds and car rides on bumpy roads calm babies. And it’s why grabbing the swing seat and giving some fast––but tiny––jiggles is essential to flip on the calming reflex in a screaming, motion-loving baby.
(Of course, you must never shake your baby! When jiggling, always support your baby’s head and neck, and keep your movements to just about 1 inch back and forth.)
Read: The Difference Between the Calming Head Jiggle vs. Shaken Baby Syndrome
More Tips for Calming Fussy Newborns That Won’t Sleep At Night
If vigorous rocking doesn’t soothe your baby, you can try some of the below tips for calming fussy newborns and preventing nighttime fussing in the first place:
- Swaddling. Swaddling helps recreate the snug surroundings of the womb. We recommend trying the swaddling method found in our article “How to Swaddle a Baby.”
- Use white noise. While in the womb, your baby was constantly surrounded by noise and activity, so putting them down in a silent room feels really weird to them! That’s where white noise comes into play. Check out our list of the best white noise sounds for your baby.
- Create a (flexible) schedule during the day. This will help prevent your little one from getting overtired...and cranky.
- Create a sleep-friendly environment. Your baby may be hot or cold, or maybe there’s too much light in the room. Be sure to limit light at night, and keep your baby at a comfortable temperature.
- Encourage pooping. Some belly massage and knee-to-tummy exercises may help get things moving during the day so nighttime sleep isn’t disturbed.
Why Newborns Are Fussy at Night and Won’t Sleep
If your newborn is extremely fussy and will not stop crying or sleep, then some possible causes include:
- Your baby is still hungry.
- Your newborn may be fussy because he is too hot or cold.
- Your newborn may not be ready to sleep because he has a dirty or wet diaper.
- Your baby may be experiencing tummy troubles .
- Your newborn may be overstimulated.
- Your newborn may be fussy because he’s overtired.
- Your baby may be sick. Take your baby’s temperature, and if he’s running a fever, call your doctor right away.
Final Thoughts: How to Calm Fussy Newborns That Won’t Sleep
Think of baby calming as a dance…and your little love is leading. When he’s wailing, do the 5 S's with more intensity in your shush and jiggle. Then, as he calms, gradually reduce your effort and guide him down to a soft landing where he is swaddled with white noise (as loud as a shower), and perhaps some sucking or gentle rocking.
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