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Sometimes the most difficult thing to see is what is in front of your eyes! By this, we mean seeking solutions in a simple manner to what we think are complex problems. For instance, we assume quite often that keeping a baby happy and smiling throughout the day is a herculean task. Something that every mother would nod in agreement to. But that is not how it is. It is just that we tend to get too much into the nitty-gritty of things. And by doing so, we sometimes miss out on the most important basics. Here are 5 basic and simple ways that can help you keep your baby smiling:
1. Get On The Dance Floor
How often has it been that someone played a catchy tune and your baby started moving, even if he/she is yet to learn to stand properly? Such is the effect of music! Babies simply love music and may even show preference to a certain kind of genre. However, avoid extremely loud decibels or jarring music. Just turn on some soft or catchy music and dance away those blues. This is also another great way to bond with your baby apart from feeding. However, a word of caution here: do not try to put on earplugs or sound-canceling earphones on your baby’s delicate ears as this might prove to be harmful.
2. A Dry Derriere
Nothing makes a baby more cranky than a wet diaper. Because wet diapers also mean that the baby may soon get a diaper rash or irritation. So, make sure you change those wet diapers as soon as you can. Keep those diaper rashes at bay by applying a generous amount of a good diaper rash cream or coconut oil after every change. Check the corners of the diapers after you’ve put them on. Just slide a finger across the inside edges and push the corners out a bit so that they don’t graze your baby’s tender thighs.
3. Plenty Of Siesta
Who doesn’t love to sleep? We all sure do. But babies require that extra bit of sleep as they continue to develop even then. On an average, babies require 14 – 16 hours of sleep in 24 hours. However, they do not sleep for more than 2 hours at a stretch (1). So, if your baby dozes off anytime, do not try to wake him/her up for anything, even breastfeeding. Your baby will eventually wake up, feeling all happy and refreshed, and ready for the next feed.
4. Change Of Settings
Yes, babies get bored too. And most of the times, it may be because of hanging around in the same room. So, step out with your baby once in a while to the neighborhood park. The daylight and the breezy setting is sure to make your baby jump with joy. Even if you cannot go outdoors regularly, try moving your baby out of the crib frequently. You can also change the room that he/she plays in. Or sit close to your balcony while feeding, but make sure your baby is safely strapped to the chair while doing so.
5. A Full Belly
An empty belly brings out the worse in all of us, so why not the babies? Usually, babies cry to communicate hunger besides other things. At the onset, it may take you some time to get to know your baby’s hunger schedules. But once you get a hang of it, it’ll be easier to feed your baby much before the demanding cry starts. Also, if your baby is on solids, start experimenting with different flavors and textures. You’ll soon be in a position where you can actually plan your baby’s meals in advance. Once your baby laps up all the food, watch him/her flash that smile of satisfaction at you.
Now you know how seemingly obvious these methods are, right? Yet, you might have probably missed them while looking at complex solutions. All you need is a little effort and practice, and you’ll soon be there. Try these simple tricks and watch your baby squeal with laughter and keep smiling!
