Health Care for Children

Becoming Overtired
 
Just like you, your little one is more susceptible to feeling tense (and having a meltdown) when she’s exhausted.

Soothing Solution: Get moving. “When our 5-month-old misses a nap, she becomes so cranky and stressed-out,” says Hollie Meyer, of Mason City, Iowa. Her fix: wrapping her baby up and rocking her, since rhythmic motion can lull a frantic infant. If your baby gets a second wind — she’s fussy from lack of sleep but is too upset to settle down — hanging out in a front carrier or a sling can keep her happy as it quiets her jangled nerves. When it’s not too cold, head out for a walk in the stroller; the white noise of nature can be as calming as the movement.

Being Left With a Babysitter
 
Between 6 and 8 months, your baby may fuss when he’s left with an unfamiliar caregiver, thanks to separation anxiety, a normal stage that turns new faces or situations into stress inducers.

Soothing Solution: Tune in to your baby’s personality so you can tailor how best to help him soothe himself, says Cynthia A. Stifter, Ph.D., professor of human development and psychology at Penn State, in University Park. For instance, allow plenty of time to introduce a shy or high-needs baby to the sitter before you dash out the door. With a more mellow child, offer a new toy; the novelty will distract him from his stress pangs so that you can say an upbeat goodbye and make your escape.

Sensing That You’re Stressed
 
If the holidays leave you feeling swamped, don’t be surprised if your baby starts acting as fussy as you feel. “Babies look to their parents for cues about life,” says Elizabeth Pantley, author of The No-Cry Nap Solution. “When you show signs of stress, then your baby figures there is something he should be worried about too.” Even if you’re not in full-blown freak-out mode, your subtle “I’m frazzled!” signs — rushing, fidgeting, speaking loudly — can signal to your little one that it’s time to fret.

Soothing Solution: You don’t have to hide your emotions from your baby. Instead, show him that you are capable of soothing yourself (preferably not with a pint of Ben and Jerry’s). Take a minute to calm both of you by blowing raspberries into your baby’s tiny tummy. The tickling sensation will break his tension, while the deep breathing will ease your own.

Originally published in the December 2009 issue of Parents magazine.