Take a quick look over your baby to make sure they don’t have any cuts, scrapes, or sores. Your little one might be crying because they’re in pain.
Some babies also like being pat on their back. Place them on their side in the crib. Lightly pat your little one’s back until they fall asleep—at this point, you can set them on their back again. Some parents find that taking their baby for a walk or drive can be very calming.
“Shushing” can be any kind of white noise that helps soothe your baby, like a vacuum cleaner, sound machine, or box fan.
Different children will like different activities. Experiment with different toys and remedies when your little one gets upset, and see what sticks! If your baby seems a little overstimulated, move them to a quiet, dark space. This might help them calm down. [5] X Research source
For instance, you can say something like, “I’m sorry that I didn’t pick up your favorite snack while I was out shopping today. Would you mind eating what we have in the refrigerator until I’m able to go shopping again?”
For instance, your child might say, “I’m mad because I have to pick up my toys” or “I’m sad because I can’t play with my friends today. ” Stay calm and don’t take it personally. When you get upset, your child will get more upset. [8] X Expert Source Kathy Slattengren, M. Ed. Parent Educator & Coach Expert Interview. 27 July 2021.
For example, if your child is upset that they can’t brush their teeth, walk them through how to squeeze out the toothpaste and move the brush around. The next time, your child might be able to do it on their own!
Coping mechanisms should be a safe alternative for feeling upset. Don’t let your little one punch the walls or do anything to hurt themselves or your home.
For instance, if your child gets upset that they dropped their favorite toy on the ground, say “freeze” before they start getting upset. This might help “reset” your child’s feelings and prevent an unwanted meltdown. Introduce “quiet time” where you both move to an area of your kid’s bedroom or the front room with soft music, pillows, squishy toys and coloring. That way, you both get a chance to take a step back and calm down. [12] X Expert Source Kathy Slattengren, M. Ed. Parent Educator & Coach Expert Interview. 27 July 2021.
You can also invite your child to do something calming with you, like solve a puzzle, relax on the floor, or sing a few songs together. This might help them feel calmer in the moment, and stop their crying. [14] X Expert Source Kathy Slattengren, M. Ed. Parent Educator & Coach Expert Interview. 27 July 2021.
Saying “ask nicely” doesn’t really mean much if your child doesn’t know how to ask for something nicely.
For example, if a child starts crying because they don’t want to eat their vegetables, tell them that they won’t get dessert if they keep throwing a fit. If a child refuses to pick up their toys, tell them that they won’t be able to play with their toys after lunch.
