This will calm a frantic baby
When caring for a frantic baby, the instinct to feed them right away might not be the best first step. Feeding is essential, but it’s secondary when dealing with a distressed infant. The key is to calm your baby before offering a feed to ensure easier latching and to prevent any escalation.
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Step One: Calm Before Feeding
A frantic baby may not latch easily, and if pushed to feed, the situation can worsen, leading to overtiredness and heightened stress for both you and your baby. The goal should be to calm your baby first. If your baby becomes inconsolable, priority shifts to soothing them into a more peaceful state. Once they are calm or perhaps have slept through a sleep cycle on you, it’s then ideal to offer the feed. This approach often leads to a smoother feeding experience and a happier baby.
The Belly-to-Belly Technique
A tried-and-true method for calming a frantic infant is the belly-to-belly hold. This comforting position involves holding your baby close, with their belly against yours. Here’s how to execute it:
Belly-to-Belly Contact: Bring your baby up close, ensuring their belly aligns with yours.
The Hug: Tuck their arm under your armpit to provide security.
Soothing Sounds and Movements: Whisper soothing shushes into their ear while gently bouncing and patting them. This repetitive motion helps them settle into a rhythm.
It typically takes a minute or two for a baby to relax and deescalate with this technique. Persistence is key—don’t give up too quickly. If your baby does fall asleep, simply hold them close, and when they begin to awaken, that’s the perfect time to offer food.
Calm Before Feeding: A Stress-Reduction Tactic
Remember, by focusing on this calming strategy, you’re not just addressing immediate distress but also fostering a nurturing environment for future feedings and restful moments. The transition from frantic distress to comfort through belly-to-belly contact can provide significant relief, and ultimately, helps in avoiding the cycle of overtiredness and stress.
By adopting these steps, you’re setting up a process that supports both you and your baby. Every change, no matter how small, contributes to a more peaceful parenting experience. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out in the comments. Your journey to ease and nurturing connection with your baby begins here.
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If you need more support
I lead a team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners around the globe, who share my programs and who I personally mentor.
If you are struggling with your baby or child, you can reach out and we can help. We do in person and virtual feeding assessments. We also offer women’s health services and can help you achieve optimal hormonal health. Our services are often covered through insurance.
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Thank you so much for being a part of our community,
Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC, MSCP