The easiest way to stop a baby crying is to give them what they need. You can’t spoil a new baby.

To comfort a crying baby

• Take care of physical problems first – hunger, clean nappy, wind
• Pick them up and hold them close to your chest
• Walk with your baby in a sling or in a stroller
• Rock your baby in a rhythmic, gentle motion
• Talk, sing or distract them
• Gently pat or stroke on the back or chest
• Bring your baby for a ride in the car or even a walk for a change of scene
• Try some light baby message
• Turn on some white noise (such as a washing machine or vacuum cleaner)