It’s OK to walk away

It’s OK to walk away if you have checked the baby is safe and the crying is getting to you. After a few minutes when you are feeling calm, go back and check on the baby.

It’s ok to walk away if you have checked the baby is safe and the crying is getting to you. After a few minutes when you are feeling calm, go back and check on the baby.

Not being able to stop a baby crying does not mean you are doing anything wrong or that you have a ‘bad’ or ‘naughty’ baby. 

Think about how you might take your mind off the crying. Make sure that the baby is safe before walking away and that you must go back to check on the baby after a few minutes when you can feel yourself calming down. It is important as parents to find time for yourselves to help you cope through what can be a stressful time. 

Crying plan

Create your own crying plan.

A baby’s cry is designed to get your attention and it might feel like it’s driving you crazy but actually, you can cope. If you think your baby is poorly, of course, see a health professional. If you’ve done all the normal checks, the baby is not ill and if you feel yourself reaching that point of exasperation – take a break! It’s OK to walk away if the baby is safe and the crying is getting to you and remember this will pass – the crying will stop.

Relaxation techniques

Talk to others