It can be very frustrating trying to get your baby settled. Here are some proven and easy to implement tips for settling your baby.
1. A little noise is good
If your baby is having trouble settling, try a hair dryer or vacuum cleaner to settle bubs. You would think this noise would wake your baby even more; however, it's actually a comforting noise, as it sounds like noises he/she was used to hearing whilst in the womb. The sound of some electrical appliances may assist in calming your baby. (This worked well for our baby, Ellie, for the first few months. At ten months of age though, the noise of the vacuum cleaner scared her!)
Baby Bassinets
Instead of holding the appliances while baby nods off to sleep, a great idea is to tape the noise of the hairdryer, washing machine, etc and then play the tape. (Alternatively, you can purchase tapes/CDs of every day noises for bubs.)
2. Reassure
Infants are relying on you to take care of him/her and they sense when you are uptight or tense. Reassure them by you being confident and calm with them, no matter how much they are screaming. Sometimes this is a lot easier said than done. Try taking a few deep breaths and walk into to the next room to get your train of thought back.
3. Gently pat the bottom for soothing baby
While nursing baby in your arms, gently pat bubs on the bottom in a rhythm. This imitates your heart beat, which they are used to hearing and feeling in the womb. As the crying and breathing slows, you slow the rhythm of the patting down continuing to get slower and slower until your baby falls off to sleep. Slowly and gently, place bubs into a bassinet or crib/cot on their back for sleeping.
4. Drive in car
Bubs will often be asleep within minutes of going for a drive, peace and quiet at last! It's also a good chance for you to treat yourself to a drink or snack at the drive thru, or to just get out of the house.
These tips have been tried by many mums all over the world. Our daughter especially liked the sound of the vacuum. I hope these tips work for settling your baby.