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Bringing a new life into the world is a wondrous journey filled with joy and discovery. However, there are moments when your little one’s cries can stir up feelings of frustration and concern, especially when they cry as soon as you put them down. Rest assured, you’re not alone in this experience, and there are practical ways to navigate through these moments of tears and tantrums. Let’s delve into the reasons behind your baby’s crying and explore effective strategies to bring comfort and calm. Read on to know all about it!
Why Does My Newborn Cry When Put Down?
Your newborn’s cries might be puzzling, especially when you’ve just nestled them down. But understanding their world can provide valuable insights. Here are some common reasons behind this behavior:
1. They Want To Be Close To You
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Think of all the months your baby spent cradled in your womb, a sanctuary of security and coziness. Being placed down can evoke a feeling of abrupt separation from this sanctuary. Their yearning for your closeness arises from the profound bond nurtured during pregnancy. Your scent, heartbeat, and touch are the constants they’ve known. Their cries signify a longing for the comfort of your presence, a craving to be wrapped in your love once again.
2. They Startle
Newborns exhibit various reflexes, like the Moro reflex, dubbed the “startle reflex.” This survival mechanism reacts to abrupt movements or sensations resembling falling. When you place your baby down gently, their Moro reflex may activate, causing flailing limbs and a startled cry. It’s as if their small body responds to unforeseen environmental shifts. As their nervous system develops, the Moro reflex typically fades, and your baby adjusts to their surroundings.
3. They’re Going Through A Fussy Period
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Babies, like all of us, have their off days. Sometimes, these challenging periods are simply a part of their growth journey. Fussy periods, often observed in the evenings, can leave them feeling more sensitive to the sights, sounds, and sensations of the world. During these times, being put down might not align with their current mood. It’s as if their senses are on high alert, making them feel more unsettled when away from your comforting presence. These moments can be perplexing, but they’re usually temporary phases as your baby adapts to their developing senses.
Why Does My Older Baby Cry Or Scream When Put Down?
As your baby grows, their cries can evolve, reflecting their developing emotions and needs. Understanding the reasons for their crying can provide you with the tools to offer the right support:
1. Separation Anxiety
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As your baby becomes more aware of their surroundings, they can experience separation anxiety. Being put down can trigger a fear of separation from their primary caregiver, prompting cries for reassurance.
2. Inability To Self-Soothe
Babies develop the ability to self-soothe at different rates. If your baby hasn’t yet mastered this skill, being put down might trigger their inability to comfort themselves.
How Do I Get My Baby To Stop Crying When I Put Them Down?
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Rest assured, there are numerous strategies to help ease your baby’s distress and make these moments more manageable:
1. Swaddle Them
Swaddling can recreate the cozy feeling of being in the womb, providing comfort and reducing the startling reflex. Just ensure it’s done safely, not too tight, and your baby’s hips have room to move.
2. Wear Your Baby
Babywearing using a sling or carrier allows you to keep your baby close while freeing up your hands for other tasks. The sensation of your heartbeat and warmth can offer the reassurance they need.
3. Try A Bouncer Or Swing
Gentle, rhythmic motions can be soothing for babies. A bouncer or swing with soft movements might help your baby feel more at ease when put down.
4. Ask For Help
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Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from family or friends. Sometimes, having an extra pair of hands can provide the break you need while ensuring your baby feels cared for.
5. Try Sleep Training For Older Babies
For older babies who struggle with self-soothing, sleep training techniques can be beneficial. Gradually teaching them to fall asleep independently can help reduce their distress when being put down.
Keep in mind that each baby is unique, and what proves effective for one may not apply to another. Persistence and patience are your allies as you tread through these demanding times. Your baby’s cries serve as their mode of communication, and your response of compassion and empathy nurtures a lasting, unbreakable bond.
While your baby’s cries upon being put down can be disconcerting, they are an integral aspect of their developmental journey. By understanding the causes of their cries and utilizing calming techniques, you’re offering the solace and encouragement necessary for them to navigate their surroundings. Parenthood embodies a voyage of discovery and evolution, where each moment, whether filled with delight or difficulty, contributes to the extraordinary connection you forge with your precious little one. Let us know in the comments your experience of calming down your crying baby!
Why Babies Cry When Put Down & How to Soothe
Watch now to discover why your baby cries when put down and learn practical, gentle techniques—like swaddling, babywearing, and rhythmic motion—to soothe and comfort your little one.
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