Parents who survived through a colicky baby say they would never wish it on their worst enemy. The crying isn’t just annoying; after a time it makes you start to question your worth as a parent. Keep in mind that colic eventually passes and it’s certainly not your fault. Here are some ways you can soothe a colicky baby.

1. First, calm yourself. When mom or dad is frustrated, that anxiety passes on to the baby. If your child has been crying for a while and you’re struggling for a solution, keep yourself cool and calm. If you need to, set your baby down somewhere safe and step away for a moment.

2. Swaddle your baby. To most babies, swaddling feels like being back in the womb. This can ease their tension. Snuggle your baby tight enough that he can’t break his arms free.

3. Use the “colic carry.” Many people think that colic is the result of excessive gas that can’t be released. Hold your baby so his tummy is on your forearm and firmly pat his back. This might coax some gas out.

4. Play some white noise. When your baby was in the womb, he heard noises from within and without constantly. Your baby might find silence unnerving. Play some light music at a low volume, make gently shushing sounds, or use a white noise machine.

5. Remove as much stimulation as possible. Stimulation could be overwhelming your child. Turn all the lights off, face your baby away from anything that’s moving (like a television screen), and limit any noise to soothing sounds (nothing sudden or disruptive).

6. Change baby’s diet. If you’re nursing, change your baby’s diet by changing yours. Eliminate foods like onions, cabbage, broccoli, caffeine, dairy products, and spicy foods. One of these might be making your child uncomfortable. If you’re using formula, switch to a soy-based or hypoallergenic brand.

7. Get that pacifier in there. It can be hard to offer your baby a pacifier when he’s so upset that he doesn’t realize it’s there. If you manage to get a lull in the screaming, stick a pacifier in your child’s mouth. The sucking reflex will take over.

8. Take a ride. In the womb, your baby experienced a lot of motion in all different directions. A ride in the car could simulate that experience. Make sure he’s snug in the car seat.

9. Wear your baby close. Some baby anxiety can result from feeling alone. Wear your baby in a sling close to your chest so he can hear your heartbeat, blood flow and breathing. It’s also a simple way to rock him; just walk around.

10. Feed slower. Colic that is a result of gas could stem from swallowing too much air during feedings. Feed your baby slower and burp more often. If necessary, feed less food, but do it more often so there is room in baby’s stomach at all times for a little gas.

Written by Alicia Overby - Founder & President of Baby Elephant Ears

Alicia is wife, mother, and creator of Baby Elephant Ears. Baby Elephant Ears was created out of parental concern, not financial desire. In 2005, when their second child was an infant, he cried all the time and just couldn't seem to get comfortable.

After seeking advice and suggestion from the medical community and alternative medicine, they eventually ended up in the chiropractors office where their baby was successfully treated for asubluxation, discomfort most likely the result of the strain during labor, which was now being exacerbated by the normal lack of infant neck strength. Only proper neck, head, and back alignment would offer him relief. When they couldn't find a product to give their baby the necessary support, Alicia took matters into her own hands and crafted her own infant support pillow. The first Baby Elephant Ears was born!

For more information, visit www.babyelephantears.com.

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