Caring for a child is a tough job. An adult’s frustration from nonstop crying is the number one reason a baby is shaken. Remember, crying is a way to communicate discomforts like:

• Hunger
• Soiled Diaper or Diaper Rash
• Fever
• Teething
• Hair Wrapped around Fingers or Toes
• Too Warmly Dressed

If these basic needs have been met, try the following calming techniques with your baby:

• Gentle Rocking or Walking
• Use a Swing
• Offer a Pacifier
• Soft Music, Singing, Reading or Talking
• Soothingly Rub the Tummy or Back
• Go for a Drive

If nothing seems to be working, remain calm. Crying does not hurt the baby. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, but it’s not okay to take that frustration out on a baby. Just a few seconds of violent shaking can change the child’s life and yours forever.

• Place the baby in a safe place, like a crib, and leave the room.
• Only return to the room when you feel calm.
• Relax, breathe deeply, count to 10, then 20.
• Ask a friend or relative to ‘take over’ for a while.
• Ask for support from someone who understands the frustration of caring for a crying baby.
• Call the 24-hour hotline at 866-243-BABY (2229).