Keeping calm with your baby
Dealing with a crying baby can be difficult, especially when you don’t know why they’re crying. Crying is their only way to let us know they're not happy. It just doesn’t tell us why. If you’ve fed and changed your baby, they’ve just been down for a nap and are still crying the house down it can be very upsetting. You can feel at your wit’s end.
Crying babies are not misbehaving. They just can’t tell you what’s wrong. Maybe they don’t like their food, they’re uncomfortable, they don’t feel well, or they just want a cuddle. We’ve compiled some tips on what to do if your baby is constantly crying.
It’s normal for new parents to feel overwhelmed and anxious at times. And that’s why it’s so important to look after yourself, here are some ideas.
Keeping calm with your toddler
At this age your wee one will start testing your patience and pushing your buttons. As hard as it can feel, this is a normal stage of development and helps them to learn independence.
Children need consistent boundaries to feel secure – even if they push against them! It will teach them what is acceptable behaviour. Talking about your emotions can help them understand their own emotions and how to express themselves.
Tantrums are inevitable with a toddler, but there are things you can do to cope with the situation. Be aware of what sets your child off - whether it’s getting dressed or having dinner, and be prepared for any bad behaviour.
Keeping calm with your child
As your child gets older you might feel they should know how to behave. But they’re still learning, and pushing boundaries is a part of growing up. When they’ve misbehaved, talk about the thing they’ve done and not them personally. They’re not bad, their behaviour is. By not making it personal, this can stop the situation becoming worse.
They may be disappointed or upset about something, so try to see things through their eyes and why they’re upset. Make sure you let them know that it’s ok to feel angry or sad, but the behaviour is not ok.
Remember that you’re not alone –all of us struggle from time to time. Talk to someone you trust, like a partner, friend, family member, health visitor or your GP. If you don’t want to talk to someone you know, you can also chat to Parentline.
What if I don’t get it right?
Staying calm when you’re wound up takes practice, so don’t be hard on yourself if you don’t always get it right. If you do end up losing your temper, make sure you say sorry to your child afterwards. This sets a good example for them.
Remember that you’re not alone – all of us struggle from time to time. Talk to someone you trust, like a partner, friend, family member, health visitor or your GP. If you don’t want to talk to someone you know, you can also chat to Parentline.