Rock-a-bye: This way or that way?

When your child cries, she’s saying, “My body is under stress. This is a really big emotion, and I don’t know what to do with it.”

Stay calm, tend to the basic needs, then see what soothes your child. Some babies simply know they need more help calming down. They need to be held closer, longer. Some children need to see your face only. Some need you to dim the lights or sing more softly.

Try a few different things and see how your baby responds best. At that point, you both can get the best benefits from a lullaby.

• Sing to your baby. She needs to hear your voice.
• Use an “oo” vowel to sing a tune to your child. Notice your own tongue and jaw relax too.
• Snuggle her close to your chest while rocking in a rocking chair.
• Stand and sway side to side.
• Try rocking so your child can see your face. The human face is of great interest to babies. Being in position to focus on mom’s or dad’s face helps a child feel calm and secure.
• A highly sensitive child needs a little protection from being overwhelmed. Dim the lights. Sing softly.