Genie Chat
Genie Chat
Tips for calming a fussy baby! As a new parent, you may have heard of the “witching hour.” This term refers to when babies get fussy in the late afternoon or evening and cannot easily calm them down. It can be hard to handle when you’ve done everything to calm your baby down, but they are still crying. Are there any parenting tips for calming a fussy baby?
Don’t worry, though—you’re not by yourself! Many parents go through the “witching hour,” but there are ways to help your baby settle down and make this time of day easier for both of you. This blog will discuss the witching hour and some strategies for moms and dads to calm a fussy baby. We will cover parenting tips for calming a fussy baby.
This is the time of day, usually in the late afternoon or evening when babies are fussier and more restless or unsettled. It may only be called an “hour,” but it lasts two to three hours or even longer. Most babies start being fussy around two to three weeks old and keep it up until they are three to four months old. Parents find this phase difficult, feel overwhelming, see themselves as not good parents, and feel guilty.
The witching hour is when your baby may be fussy, cry a lot, and have trouble calming down. It can be tough for new moms and dads, but it’s essential to know that this is normal and will pass—it’s just a temporary phase. Remember, ask for help getting through this phase.
There are a few reasons why babies might be fussier at that time of day. These could be some of the reasons:
Overstimulation/Overtired: By the end of the day, your baby has experienced a lot of new sights, sounds, and activities, which can be overwhelming and lead to fussiness. This normally happens when you miss the tiredness signs/cues. Baby sleep is always challenging during this period.
Growth Spurts: During growth spurts, your baby is growing rapidly, which can make them more restless and fussy as their body adjusts to the new skills and milestones.
Adjusting to the Environment: Your baby is still getting used to their surroundings, and changes in light, temperature, or noise can make them feel unsettled and lead to fussiness.
Babies get tired or overtired quickly. If they don’t get enough sleep during the day, they might be too tired in the evening, making it hard to settle down. New parents tend to spend too much time overhandling and miss the tired signs, which leads to the baby being overtired.
Hunger or Comfort: Your baby may want to cluster feed in the evening, even if they’ve been feeding most of the day. By cluster feeding, they will be closer to you and feel more secure.
Having trouble digesting food: Some babies have gas or colic, which can be painful and make them fussier at night.
 Now that you know what it is, let’s talk about some easy and useful ways to help calm your baby during this challenging time. Parenting advice for new parents: Parenting Tips for Calming a Fussy Baby
1. Create a Calm Environment
If your baby is overtired, a calm and quiet place can help them feel and settle better. Ensure there aren’t any bright lights or loud noises around for your baby to relax. You can even use a white noise machine or play soft music like lullabies to make your baby feel better.
2. Try Gentle Baby Massage
A gentle massage can help your baby relax, especially if they have gas or tummy issues. Rub their tummy, back, or feet in soft, circular motions to help them feel more comfortable.
3. Swaddle for Comfort
Swaddling your baby can help them feel safe and calm down during the witching hour. Ensure your baby’s arms are tucked in, but their legs have room to move around and use a soft swaddle or blanket. Swaddling can help fussy babies feel better by making them feel like they are still in the womb. Some babies will sleep through the night when swaddled as they feel secure.
4. Try Baby Wearing
You can stay close to your baby while still being able to move around and do things when you wear them. You can carry your baby close to your chest with a baby sling or wrap. This can help them feel safe and calm. Moving around slowly while walking with your baby can also help them fall asleep.
5. Give them a pacifier
The usual way for babies to calm down is to suck, even when they’re not hungry. Try giving your baby a pacifier if they are fussy at witching hour. This can help calm your baby down and comfort them when they need it the most.
6. Take a walk or drive around.
A change of setting can often help a fussy baby. You can take your baby for a walk in a stroller around the neighbourhood or drive around with them. Moving around and being outside can help calm your baby and give you a break from home, where they are unsettled. Babies love motions.
7. Try Baby Massage
A gentle massage can help your baby relax, especially if they have gas or tummy troubles. Gently rub their tummy, back, or feet in soft, circular motions to help them feel more comfortable.
8. Stay Calm
It is essential to stay calm and patient during the witching hour. Babies can pick up on your emotions and tell when you’re upset or worried, sometimes making them fussier. Take a few deep breaths, make tea, and remain calm. Ask for help from family members to have a short break.
Try a few strategies that suit your parenting styles and family life.
The witching hour is common; most babies experience it, but if you’re worried that your baby is in pain or crying too much, it’s a good idea to talk to your maternal child health nurse or child doctor. Being fussy can sometimes indicate a deeper problem, like acid reflux or a food allergy.
Parenting Genie offers help for parents with 24/7 support from Parenting Live Experts. Genie Chat is also available anytime, day or night, if you need assistance during the witching hour. They also offer 1 on 1 online/virtual consultations. The Parenting Genie website has top tips for every stage, from pregnancy to raising 5-year-olds.
Many parents find the witching hour challenging, but with consistency and patience, it gets easier. If you’re looking for additional tips on soothing your baby, Raising Children offers some great advice.
You and your baby may both have a hard time during the witching hour, but there are things you can do to help your child feel calm and safe. Do not forget that this stage will not last forever.
Remember, you can contact Parenting Live Experts or Genie Chat 24/7 for personalised help and advice. You can do this!
