11 Genius Ways to Help a Baby Stop Cr@ying

When Jeannie Kim، of New York City، was on maternity leave with her daughter، her husband had a job that required him to be gone from 5 a.m. to as late as midnight. "I took four walks in one day just to stay sane،" she says. "And the long strolls almost always calmed the baby down، too."

Why it works: Many new parents worry that people will be annoyed by hearing a crying baby in public، but it's better for you to get outside and get some fresh air. Even if the baby continues to cry، it may cause less stress outdoors than when you're cooped up in the house.

9. Soothe Yourself First

Samantha Jacobs treated herself to a pair of noise-canceling headphones. "Everyone talks about using music to soothe the baby، but sometimes I need music to soothe myself،" says the Fort Lauderdale mom. "If the crying gets really bad and I'm on my own، I'll place my daughter in her crib، then go and close myself in my room. I'll play just one song that I know will relax me and give me the patience I need،" she explains. "Then I will go back and try to calm her down."

Why it works: Shutting out the crying for a few minutes can stop your head from spinning and your heart from racing. And you help you recharge so you can better handle continued crying.

10. Make a Laugh Track

If your baby cries around the same time every day، have something to look forward to while you tend to them. Boston mom Katie Bugbee would DVR her favorite TV show and watch it every morning while trying to calm her son during his fussy time.

Why it works: Laughter is helpful for anyone who's reeling from uncomfortable emotions. (Hear that، new parents? Get comic relief as much as you can!) "It gets you out of your head and away from feelings that are making you depressed or anxious،" Clancy says.