Loose Fitting Clothing, Including nappies
Be sure nothing is putting pressure on Baby‘s tummy. When fastening nappies be careful not to make them too tight. It’s much more comfortable for your baby to have a leaky nappy than a leaky oesophagus!

Also beware of clothing with non-elastic or other button top waistbands that can be too tight on Baby’s tummy. If when your baby sits up after a nappy change and their tummy has a slight overhang, think about slackening off the nappy waistline.

Swaddling
Your baby may resist being swaddled at first but within a few minutes should actually start to calm down. There are special swaddle blankets that make this life easier. You can swaddle quite well with the Babasling product which provides close proximity between you and baby.

Dummies/Pacifiers
Sucking relaxes the digestive tract and increases saliva which can help digest feeds more quickly. Many babies need to be “taught” to take a dummy and you may need to experiment with different dummy teats and textures.

Try putting it in your baby’s mouth and then very gently pulling it out. A baby’s normal response is to try to keep it in there. It’s recommended to wait until breastfeeding is established (4-6 weeks) before introducing a dummy. Whilst you have the problems associated with removing the dummy in later years, finding a soother for your distressed child right now, will really help.

Comforters/blankets
Small soft blankets or even burp cloths that smell like Mum or Dad can be very reassuring for your baby. Try putting one inside your shirt or pyjamas for several nights to fill it with your scent.
We have chosen a few little cuddlies that caught our eye and certainly feature as one of the gang in our daughter’s cot now!

Change of Scenery
Leave the house! New things to look at, fresh air and a change of scenery may be distracting or calming to your baby. If nothing else it will be a welcome break for you. Even if you step out into the garden, change in brightness, air and sound will cause a distraction.

Music & White Noise
Music, Rhythmic sounds and white noise can calm and distract. Instrumentals may be less stimulating but experiment to learn what your baby likes. Babies have individual tastes in music just as adults do. We found a great CD compilation featuring household sounds like the hoover and tumble dryer to name a few! for those babies who respond to household sounds.

Running Water or Fan
The noise from a running shower or fan may also soothe your baby. You’re lucky if this works – that means you can probably shower every day!