Crying is baby's way to communicate. She is trying to tell you something. Over time you will learn how to tell the difference, but babies cry for any number of reasons:

• Hunger - most common
• Indigestion or colic pain
• Soiled diaper
• Uncomfortable - clothing, lying or sitting position
• Sudden temperature change
• Lack of attention - boredom
• Tired
• Needs comforting

You cannot spoil your child by trying to meet her needs. In fact, it will help your baby feel loved and secure. After you have attempted to solve all of the above problems and she is still fussy, trying holding and rocking her. If that doesn't work, try walking around. There is something about being held and walked that soothes many a fussy baby. As soon as you sit down or try to put her down, she may start all over again. For some unexplainable reason, pacing the floor with a fussy baby is extremely soothing and will often work when nothing else will. Research has shown that babies who are carried more often don't cry as much as other babies.

Many fathers have been known to take a fussy baby out for a drive in the car. That often works as well as a last resort. The motion of the car seems to put many babies to sleep. If you have an infant carrier that can be strapped in as a car seat, you can then easily transport the baby inside without waking her.
Here is a list of things you can do to try to soothe your baby as an attempt to find out what will work to calm your baby down:

• Rock your baby in your arms while standing or while sitting in a rocking chair.
• Stroke your baby's head very gently, or lightly pat her back or chest.
• Make soft noises, such as cooing, to let your baby know you are there and that you care. Talk to your baby.
• Softly sing to your baby or play soft music.
• Wrap her up in a baby blanket (but not too tightly). Some babies respond to being swaddled.

If your baby keeps crying after you have tried everything, stay calm. Babies know when you're upset. No matter how stressed you are, never shake your baby. Shaking your baby can cause blindness, brain damage or even death. If you need a break, call a relative, neighbor or friend to help. All babies cry. You will not be able to comfort your baby every time. That does not mean that you are a bad parent. Do the best you can to comfort your baby.

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