Crying is one of the hardest parts of early parenthood. While all newborns cry, understanding why your baby is crying — and how to help them regulate — can completely change the postpartum experience.
Newborns are not trying to manipulate or communicate in complex ways. They are expressing unmet needs or nervous system overwhelm.
There are six foundational soothing strategies that work with a baby’s biology:
Swaddling or babywearing recreates the snug containment of the womb and helps calm the startle reflex.
Shushing or white noise mimics the loud environment babies are accustomed to and helps regulate breathing and heart rate.
Swaying with slow, rhythmic motion reflects the constant movement babies experienced in utero.
Sucking is deeply regulating and releases dopamine. It does not always indicate hunger. Newborns have a high suck drive, and pacifiers often get an unfair reputation.
Skin-to-skin contact places baby in their natural habitat — your chest — stabilizing temperature, breathing, and emotions.
Stepping away when needed is an act of care for you. If you’re overwhelmed, placing baby safely in their crib and taking a moment to reset is appropriate and responsible.
When parents understand cues, regulation, and newborn behavior, confidence replaces panic. Fussiness almost always has a reason — and knowing how to respond helps both baby and parent feel safer and more supported.