How to Hold a Colicky Baby

A colicky baby cries for more than three hours at a time at least four days per week. Colic is not treatable, nor is it a health risk, in an otherwise healthy, well-fed baby. Nevertheless, the crying, which approaches hysteria, is stressful for parents and caregivers. Try these "holds" to quiet a colicky baby.

Instructions

    • 1

      Do the "colic curl." Hold the baby facing you and encircle your arms under his diaper. Press the baby's feet against your chest.

    • 2

      Hold the baby in a "reverse curl," facing away from you. Stand in front of a large mirror so the baby can witness her own drama.

    • 3

      Score with the "football hold." Rest the baby's head in the crook of your arm and drape his tummy area along your forearm. Grasp the diaper area with your hand. Press your wrist into the baby's tummy.

    • 4

      Walk around with the baby. Keep up continuous motion while holding the baby, some infants respond favorably.

    • 5

      Make eye contact. Babies love to know that they have your undivided attention.

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