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Does your baby need to be fed or burped?
Feed your baby when she's hungry, not strictly by the clock. Check with your doctor if you think she is sensitive to formula milk or to cow's milk in the mother's diet.

Does the baby need to be changed?
Check his diaper to make sure it's dry and not too tight.

Does your baby seem to have a fever?
Does he seem to be in pain from an earache, teething, a rash or insect bite? Call your doctor or health clinic for advice if you think your baby might be ill or in pain.

Does your baby need to suck?
Guide her fingers to her mouth or offer her a pacifier.

Does your baby need to feel close to you?
Hold your baby often and for extended periods. Babies need to be touched and cuddled in order to develop physically and mentally. Many parents enjoy "wearing" their young children in a cloth sling or baby holder. This calms the baby while you carry on with normal daily activites. Recognized studies show that baby-wearing reduces crying and fussiness by half.

Does your baby seem cranky?
Maybe he is overtired or overstimulated. Turn off extra noise like the television or radio. Lower the lights. Wrap baby with his arms and legs inside a blanket and lay him on his back in his crib.

Does your baby just need to cry?
Remember that all babies cry, sometimes alot, during the first year of life. If you've tried everything, your baby is still crying, and it's getting to you, wrap the baby snugly in a blanket and place him on his back in a quiet, darkened room. Close the door and go to another room.

It's okay if your baby cries while you calm down. Letting your baby cry it out when you've had enough is safer than yelling, hitting, or shaking. Then try our tips on taking care of yourself. You've earned it!