If you’re reading this in the middle of the night—rocking, shushing and wondering when the fussiness will stop—just know you’re not alone.
Fussiness is part of the baby package—whether it’s regular restlessness or those intense stretches with a colicky baby—even if it catches you off guard each and every time. And it’s completely natural to feel a mix of exhaustion and love.
Listening to What Your Baby Really Needs
Babies don’t come with manuals, do they? Some days, their cries are little mysteries. Sometimes it’s hunger or sleep or a wet diaper or just needing a hug after a long day full of new sensations.
If only they’d text us, right?
But over time, we start to notice the subtle clues — a certain cry, a quirky face scrunch, tiny fists waving for attention. These small cues slowly become a language only you can understand.
Here’s a calm-down checklist for you:
- Fed? Sometimes fussiness is simply hunger showing up earlier than expected. Babies have tiny tummies, and even if they are just fed, a growth spurt or cluster feeding session can make them hungry again sooner than usual.
- Burped? Air trapped after a feed can make babies uncomfortable. A quick burp — even halfway through feeding — can bring surprising relief. If your baby is arching their back or squirming, they may just need help releasing that tiny air bubble.
- Dry diaper? A wet or soiled diaper doesn’t always spark immediate crying, but it can create growing discomfort. A quick diaper change often helps them settle more easily.
- Overstimulated? A child can get too tired from too much light, noise, cuddling, or exercise. If they’re turning their head away, rubbing their eyes, or suddenly melting down — it might be time for a quiet, dimmer space.
- Too hot or too cold? Babies can’t regulate temperature well yet. Check their neck or chest (not hands and feet) to see if they’re sweaty or chilly. A small layer change or temperature tweak can make a huge difference.
- Need cuddles? Sometimes, the answer is simply you. Your scent, your heartbeat, your arms — you are their calm. A few minutes of holding, rocking, or gentle skin-to-skin time can soothe them in ways nothing else can.
Tried-and-True Soothing Tricks (From One Parent to Another)
There’s no magic fix but here’s what tends to help most little ones. Think of these as the “greatest hits” gathered from countless nights and conversations with other parents:
- Swaddling: Many babies love the gentle hold of a lightweight wrap — it helps them feel snug and safe, like being back in the womb.
- Rocking or swaying: Sometimes you just have to dance around the living room (bonus points if you’re off-key singing to your favourite song).
- White noise or shushing: Soft “shh-shh-shh” sounds or a white noise machine can help drown out distractions and mimic the soothing whoosh they heard inside you.
- A stroll outside or maybe a drive: If nothing else helps, taking your infant for a quick stroll on the balcony or around the block can be quite beneficial. The fresh air and gentle movement make you both feel better.
- Cuddles and gentle touch: Skin-to-skin time, soft pats, or a baby massage after a warm bath can be incredibly soothing — for both baby and parent.
Other ultra-practical 2am hacks from fellow parents
Every baby is different and sometimes you need to look beyond the usual to figure out what works for your little one. Here are a few more practical hacks from parents –
- The “warm cloth trick”
Warm a soft cloth (not hot) and place it near the baby’s tummy for gas discomfort. - The “parent scent” hack
Wrap the baby in a cloth that smells like you — surprisingly calming. - Walking figure-eight instead of pacing straight
This gives babies more rhythmic motion and calms faster. - Hum deeply instead of singing
Babies feel vibrations through your chest more than they hear the melody.
Your Calm Matters — And It’s Okay to Ask for Help
Here’s the part we don’t hear enough: babies can sense our emotions. When we’re tense or anxious, it can make it harder for them to settle.
So, pause for a moment & take a deep breath.
If you’ve tried everything and frustration is bubbling up, hand the baby to your partner, a grandparent or a friend for a few minutes. You’re not letting your baby down — you’re taking care of both of you.
A Final Word: This Too Shall Pass
Every parent remembers these days — how endlessly long and achingly short they feel.
You’re not failing if your baby cries. You’re learning a rhythm together.
Every soft sigh and every little yawn when the tears stop is confirmation that you’re getting there, one delicate try at a time 💛