Comforting Your Baby

Your baby's relationship with you is key to their health, development, and well-being.

Comforting your baby when they are sick, hurt, sad, scared, lonely, or upset teaches your baby that you will be there when they need you. This helps them feel safe and they may cry less when they are older. This is called building attachment.

What to do when your baby cries

Crying is a normal behaviour for babies. All babies cry, but some cry more than others. Try these when your baby cries:

• Pick up your baby and speak to them softly.
• Feed your baby.
• Check your baby's diaper.

If these needs are met and your baby is still crying, try the following ideas:

• Hold your baby in a different way.
• Rock your baby or use gentle movement.
• Snuggle your baby skin-to-skin.
• Go for a walk with your baby.
• Move to a quiet, darkened room.

There may be times when you can't settle your baby's crying. This is a normal experience and happens to all parents, but it can be frustrating. Here are a few tips for you in these times:

• Take a few deep breaths.
• Tell yourself “this will be okay.”
• Ask for help from a neighbour, friend, partner, or family member.
• If you are feeling frustrated, put your baby safely and calmly into the crib.  It is not harmful to leave your baby crying in a safe place for a short time until you are calm.

Never shake your baby. Shaken Baby Syndrome can cause brain damage, disabilities, or death. If you think your baby has been shaken, call 9-1-1 or go to the emergency room.