top tips to soothe your baby

If a couple of hours have passed since your baby’s last feed, this
could be the problem. Another sure sign he’s peckish is if he’s
rooting (turning his head and opening his mouth as if to feed).

Newborns struggle to stay awake any longer than 90 minutes at a
time, so it could be that your little one is simply shattered. Try laying
him in his moses basket and gently patting or rocking him.

Your baby may simply need changing. A dirty nappy can irritate
sensitive skin and is a common cause of tears.

Newborns tend to swallow air during feeds, which makes them
prone to painful trapped wind. Try leaning your baby forward across
your arm, supporting his head, and gently rubbing his back until you
hear a satisfying burp or nappy rumble

Sometimes there’s no obvious reason for the tears, in which
case a cuddle will usually do the trick.

Colicky babies can wail for a couple of hours at a time, particularly
in the evenings. Other signs include pulling up their knees
and clenching their fists. Take turns with your partner to comfort
your baby until the sobbing subsides. Babies usually grow out of
colic by 12 weeks, but if things become too much, speak to your
health visitor or GP, or visit www.cry-sis.org.uk

An unusually high-pitched, distressed wail that doesn't subside
could be a sign that your baby is in pain or has an infection. See
your GP without delay.