Nothing gets a mom’s attention like a crying baby in the car seat. Mothers are wired to nurture their children, but it’s dangerous to take your eyes off the road — even for a second! Babies cry when they are bored, tired, lonely, hungry, or uncomfortable. Let’s look at seven ways to calm your baby down.
1. Check the temperature.
Babies can’t regulate their body temperature like you. Make sure they are dressed in seasonally appropriate clothes. Not too hot. Not too cold. Just right! Try out different layers to figure out what is most comfortable for your baby. On hot days, crack the backseat windows to get a nice breeze inside.
2. Put a blanket in the car seat.
Babies love to be held. Roll up a couple of blankets and put them in the car seat. The feeling is similar to being held in your arms. That should make your baby feel comfy!
3. Keep special toys in your car.
Babies get bored easily. They need to be occupied. Buy some cool toys to keep in the car. If your baby throws a fit, stand firm. If you refuse to back down, they might grow so attached to those toys that they look forward to car rides!
4. Sing along to your favorite songs.
Babies get upset when they can’t see their mother. That’s kind of sweet, isn’t it? It’s nice to be wanted! Make sure the baby knows you’re there. Turn on the radio and sing along. Hearing your voice can be reassuring.
5. Make sure the sun isn’t blinding them.
Babies will cry if the sun gets in their eyes. Can you blame them? Ouch! Most car-seats come with sunshades. You might want to buy one to put on the window just to cover your bases.
6. Experiment with toys that are calming and engaging.
Babies are unique individuals. Some babies get nervous in cars. They need a toy that will calm them down. Some babies get bored in cars. They need a toy that’s loud and flashy (sorry, mom).
7. Accept the fact that your baby won’t always be happy.
Babies have bad days sometimes. Fits aren’t always a cause for concern. Crying is the baby’s way of communicating. If you think your baby is sick or in pain, go to the doctor. Otherwise, don’t worry so much. You feel sad sometimes too, don’t you? I’m sure you do. Its completely natural. Let it go.
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