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Dealing with a crying baby day after day can be difficult, particularly when you're tired.  

So it’s good to have a plan for coping - calmly and safely - keeping in mind that this stage will not last forever.

Have a plan for staying calm during the difficult times. Here are some recommended tips to help you out: 

• If you're getting angry or losing control, gently place the baby in a safe area, such as a crib, and leave the room. Try holding onto something you can't throw. Count to ten, cry into or pound a pillow, or run on the spot. Don't touch your baby until you are calm.
• Call a friend or relative you can trust if you feel like you're losing control. Keep their number by or on your phone.
• Take regular breaks. Have someone take over so you can rest, walk, or have some alone time. Be sure the caregiver has a plan if the crying is hard to cope with. Do not leave your baby in the care of someone who has problems controlling their anger.
• Talk with your partner about how you can help each other
• Talk with other parents about how they coped.
• Ask your healthcare provider about courses on parenting.
• Call Healthlink BC at 8-1-1, your healthcare provider, or public health office.
• If the crying is constant, louder than usual or the baby has a fever or is vomiting, or you have concerns that something is wrong, go to the hospital or health clinic.
• Read more about soothing a baby.
• Never shake or hit your baby.

Never shake a baby!

Babies have weak neck muscles and heavy heads. Even a few seconds of hard shaking can cause serious injury or death. Be sure to tell childcare providers to never shake or hit your baby.

Resources & Links:

HealthLink BC: Crying, Age 3 and Under