Many babies, in the first few months of life, go through fussy periods. Babies tend to fuss most in the evening or afternoon but each baby is different! During this period, your baby will likely appear restless and cranky, often crying uncontrollably and sleeping irregularly. Fussiness may indicate that your child is hungry, tired, uncomfortable, overstimulated, or ill. If your baby continues to fuss after addressing these concerns, here are three top tips to calm your fussing baby:

1. Baby Massage

Evidence has shown that massaging your baby with natural oils for a few minutes every day has numerous benefits for your baby’s physical and mental health. Massages improve your baby’s digestive functions and enhance blood circulation. It also helps to reduce stress hormones and stimulate the release of serotonin, which enhances our feeling of wellbeing and happiness. This should help relax your baby.

3. Skin-to-Skin

Direct physical contact between you and your baby aids the release of oxytocin in your baby. This hormone strengthens your bond with your baby and also reduces stress and lowers blood pressure in both you and your little one. This has the knock-on effect of calming your baby and easing their restlessness.

3. Baby Bath

Some babies love baths while others try to resist them! Bathing your baby is a good way to calm them as the warm water can have a relaxing effect on your child. If your baby protests, it may be worth laying them in the bath wrapped in a towel for additional comfort and security. Having a baby with your baby may also aid you in relaxing them as long as you hold them in a safe way in the water and keep the temperature at body temperature.

Fussing babies are often showing that they want attention and comfort. To provide this, it’s important to look after yourself too. Take a rest whenever you get the chance and take active care of your mental health. This way, you will be in the best position to tend to your fussing baby.

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