Coping with a crying pēpi - some helpful tips
It's tough looking after a pēpi who can't stop crying.
Why do pēpi cry?
It's normal for pēpi to cry. Pēpi is NOT trying to annoy you - although it may feel like that. Here are some things you can try to soothe your crying pēpi:
Cuddle your pēpi
Offer them another feed
Change their nappy
Make sure pēpi’s clothing is not too tight
Make sure pēpi is not too hot or cold
Burp pēpi (wind pain can make them very uncomfortable)
Wrap and hold pēpi safely in a lightweight blanket
Pēpi may be tired - put them down somewhere safe to sleep.
Hold your pēpi close, massaging their back, singing, humming or talking - see our section on Oriori and Lullabies
Put pēpi in a frontpack or stroller and go for a walk
Go for a drive with pēpi in the car seat.
Put this list on the fridge. It will help you remember what to do when you find it hard to think straight because pēpi is crying. You may need to do some of these things more than once. And if you are worried that pēpi is not well, see your doctor or after hours medical centre. It's better to get medical help sooner rather than later.
If pēpi is still crying, take a break.
If you try all these things and pēpi still won't settle, you can feel frustrated. This is normal. When you feel upset because pēpi is crying there are some things you can do to calm yourself down.
Put pēpi in a safe place (like their pēpipod, cot or wahakura) and leave the room
Take a few very deep breaths. This works!
Do something relaxing like making a cup of tea or whatever works for you.
Check on pēpi but don't pick them up until you are feeling calm and ready to comfort them.
Call a friend, family member or one of the help lines in our support services section. Don't be embarrassed. It's OK to admit when you've reached your limit. It's much better than hurting pēpi.
Shouting at pēpi will not make things any better - remember they are not crying to make you feel bad - and NEVER EVER SHAKE A BABY as this could cause an injury to pēpi's brain that could leave a lasting disability or even death.
Share these messages with your whānau and other people who look after your pēpi so they have the knowledge to support you and pēpi and help to keep pēpi safe.
See Kidshealth for more information on coping with a crying baby and the dangers of shaking a baby.
If you think your pēpi might have been harmed, take them to get medical help straight away (111). You could save their life.
