Is your baby crying a lot, and all you want is to calm and comfort your little one? We understand how hard and draining it can be to have a baby who cries this much and seems impossible to console. That's why we've gathered some sources of support and tips here, so your baby can sleep (and be awake) calmly, or at least more calmly.
What does excessive crying mean?
If your baby cries excessively, they cry frequently and intensely, often for no obvious reason. These crying spells usually happen in the evening or at night and can go on for several weeks or months. Babies who cry excessively are often hard to calm, and the usual things like feeding, changing their diaper or stroking them don't comfort them. It can feel as if nothing you do can soothe your baby. For many parents, the early days with their baby become a real test of endurance.
It's important to recognize that a baby who cries excessively is not simply a baby who cries a bit more often. It is a special situation that may need specialized help.
You don't have to carry your worries alone
Your first point of contact is your pediatrician, who can rule out and treat possible medical and organic causes of the crying. A visit to an osteopath or physical therapist can also help release blockages or tension in your baby's body that may be causing pain or discomfort. It can also help to see a nutrition counselor, to make sure your baby gets enough nutrients and to rule out possible food intolerances. Once you've ruled out all physical causes, you can seek psychological counseling to help you as parents cope with this difficult situation.
To get the right help, there are counseling services that specialize in excessive crying, and there are Schreiambulanzen (outpatient clinics for babies who cry excessively). Their specially trained staff can help you understand why your baby is crying and find ways to help them.
Here you can search for a Schreiambulanz anywhere in Germany: Find a Schreiambulanz here
Baby hammocks and more tips for parents of babies who cry a lot
You have probably heard every tip imaginable already. And yes, we take it seriously: a baby who cries excessively is a baby who can't be calmed with the usual tricks. Still, we would like to recommend our baby hammock, which may bring at least some relief.
For daytime naps, our baby hammock can help calm your baby and rock them to sleep. The gentle rocking motion mimics the movements in the womb and can give your child a sense of calm and security. With the self-learning motor, you decide exactly how the baby hammock swings. That can help especially with a baby who cries a lot and only calms down with one particular kind of rocking. The baby hammock can work especially well for babies who tend to settle when they are carried. Parents tell us that it frees up their hands, at least for a little while, and that their babies can nap for longer.
Here are a few more tips you can try to calm your baby:
- Talk to your baby in a soothing voice and try gently stroking or massaging them.
- A warm, cozy environment can also help.
- You can try playing soft music or white noise to give your child a pleasant soundscape.
Most important of all: Even if it may not feel like it right now, please remember that you are not alone and that there is no shame in asking for help. Look for support from the people around you or contact a counseling service for excessive crying. You are already doing everything in your power to comfort and help your child. Stay patient and trust that it will get better.