Articles from GBE Friends

Like it or not, at home or at day care, crying is a physiological process, a certainty for new born babes. Babies communicate with other humans via this annoying yet necessary technique. Unless your baby has miraculously mastered the art of speech her method of communication is probably going to be a spot of wailing. Discomfort of any sort is guaranteed to bring on a bout of the tears. Generally, the causes for crying are fairly common i.e. dirty bottom, hungry tummy, too warm or chilly, restrictive clothing, unwell etc.

There are children who demand constant attention and, if not forthcoming, they cry. Crying without any cause is habitual in some babies. Crying, whether with or without cause is extremely distressing for parents or carers. Since the reasons for crying ranges from simple causes to more serious ones it should not be ignored thus exact cause must be identified and managed accordingly. Here are some basic considerations when faced with a distressed child.

1, It is dangerous to shake the baby vigorously. 2, Tight, restrictive clothing can irritate delicate skin and should be loosened. 3, If the room is hot put the fan on and open the windows. 4, Check to see if the diaper is soiled and change. 5, Pat her back or stroke her head slowly and let her here your soothing sound. 6, The baby may be hungry to offer the breast or bottle. 7, If the climate is cold cover her with a soft blanket. 8, Pace the bedroom slowly whilst gently rocking the child. 9, Take a music making doll and let her listen. 10, A pacifier can be a great comfort. 11, If no response change her position. 12, A breath of fresh air might do you both good so head outside. 13, Put her on the cradle and rock gently. 14, Perhaps try changing to a different set of arms i.e. ask dad to carry her.

If even after all these steps the baby continues to cry check for the following; ( Probable cause is given after every sign)

1, Gently press on the child's tummy - if she writhes or resists you then she may have colic. 2, Pull her ear gently she may become worse or push your hands away:---Earache. 3, Check her temperature - if she has a fever she could have an infection. 4, Examine the skin from head to foot:--Eruptive disease,diaper rash,measles,vesicles,allergy etc. 5, Discharge from the nose - coryza. 6, Move the head gently to feel any neck stiffness:--Meningitis,head injury etc. 7, Listen to her chest for any labored breathing or rattling - An increase in mucus could indicate many illnesses e.g. bronchiolitis, asthamatic bronchitis, pneumonia etc. 8, Examine the anal orifice:--Anal erosion,rectal polyp,crawling of worms. 9, Check the genitalia - Any wounds or discharge. 10, In male baby see the testicles which may be swollen or tender:--Orchitis,torsion of testes. 11, Generally observe the body and it's movements for signs of vomiting, convulsions, labored breathing, rigors or cough.

If you see the above signs or any other abnormal signs consult your doctor for proper treatment.

Fiona Lohrenz has 10 years experience running a day care and has launched a child care website directed at providers and parents. She has also produced a 'Start a Daycare Business' DVD guide: Start A Daycare Business Fiona can be reached at her website: ChildCareOnly.com