Crying is your baby’s first language. But when it seems like they won’t stop, especially late at night, it can leave any mum feeling frustrated, anxious, and helpless.
This guide shares practical, mum-tested ways to calm your crying baby, including cultural tips Nigerian families swear by. Whether you’re a first-time mum or just looking for reassurance, you’ll find comfort and clarity here.
Contents
- 1 First, Understand Why Babies Cry
- 2 10 Effective Ways to Soothe a Crying Baby
- 2.1 1. Feed Baby (Even If Recently Fed)
- 2.2 2. Burp Thoroughly After Feeding
- 2.3 3. Change the Diaper
- 2.4 4. Swaddle for Security
- 2.5 5. Try Motion (Rock, Walk, Bounce)
- 2.6 6. Use White Noise or Calming Sounds
- 2.7 7. Dim Lights & Reduce Noise
- 2.8 8. Skin-to-Skin Contact
- 2.9 9. Give a Warm Bath
- 2.10 10. Offer a Pacifier
- 3 Local Cultural Remedies—What Works & What to Watch
- 4 When Crying Might Be a Medical Concern
- 5 How to Stay Calm as a Mum
- 6 Final Thoughts
First, Understand Why Babies Cry
Crying doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Here are the most common reasons:
- Hunger
- Dirty diaper
- Gas or colic
- Overstimulation
- Tiredness
- Need for closeness
- Discomfort (hot, cold, itching, etc.)
The key is the process of elimination and staying calm while you try.
10 Effective Ways to Soothe a Crying Baby
1. Feed Baby (Even If Recently Fed)
Newborns have small stomachs and may feed more often. Offer breast or bottle especially during growth spurts.
2. Burp Thoroughly After Feeding
Trapped gas can make babies very uncomfortable. Try different burping positions: over your shoulder, sitting upright, or face-down on your lap.
3. Change the Diaper
Even a slightly wet diaper can irritate sensitive newborn skin especially during harmattan.
4. Swaddle for Security
Swaddling mimics the womb and calms the startle reflex. Use a light cotton wrap and leave room for hip movement.
Chikaro Picks: Breathable cotton swaddles and easy-wrap blankets.
5. Try Motion (Rock, Walk, Bounce)
Babies often calm down with gentle motion. Use a rocker, sway while standing, or even take a short stroll.
6. Use White Noise or Calming Sounds
A fan, lullaby app, or even your shushing sounds can comfort them.
Chikaro Tip: Record the sound of rainfall or heartbeat and play it softly.
7. Dim Lights & Reduce Noise
Overstimulation is real. Turn off the TV, dim the lights, and create a peaceful environment.
8. Skin-to-Skin Contact
Holding your baby close, bare chest to chest, can regulate their breathing and heart rate especially helpful for premature or fussy babies.
9. Give a Warm Bath
If nothing else works and it’s not too late at night, a gentle bath can relax tense muscles and distract them.
10. Offer a Pacifier
Some babies are comforted by sucking even when not hungry.
Local Cultural Remedies—What Works & What to Watch
What Nigerian Grannies Recommend:
- “Rub a little ori (shea butter) on the belly” – Safe in small amounts if baby isn’t allergic
- Warm cloth on tummy for gas – Works if not too hot
- Giving agbo – Not recommended for newborns unless medically advised
What Doctors Say:
- Avoid herbal mixtures (like agbo) in the first few months
- Stick to clean, simple remedies: swaddling, feeding, cuddling
When Crying Might Be a Medical Concern
Call a doctor if:
- Crying sounds high-pitched or painful
- Baby arches back or seems stiff
- Vomiting, fever, or diarrhoea accompanies the crying
- Baby cries for hours daily with no break (colic may be suspected)
How to Stay Calm as a Mum
- Put baby in a safe place and take 5 minutes if overwhelmed
- Call a family member for help
- Play soft music to calm you both
- Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or midwife
Remember: a crying baby is not a reflection of your ability as a mum. You’re doing your best and that’s more than enough.
Final Thoughts
Soothing a crying baby takes patience, love, and a little trial and error. Every baby is different. What works for one may not work for another. Trust your instincts and give yourself grace.
