How to Calm a VERY Fussy Baby

Soft whispers and gentle rocking are perfect for calm babies. But very fussy newborns  need a bit more vigour to help them calm and fall asleep. This sounds as wrong as the advice to add a slimy, raw egg to a cake mix…yet it is definitely the best way to calm very fussy newborns at night!

How to Calm VERY Fussy Newborns at Night That Will Not Sleep

Think of turning on the calming reflex like getting someone’s attention. If a person is engaged in a heated argument, you may have to tap his shoulder several times––very emphatically––just to get him to respond.

Vigour is exactly why hoover sounds and car rides on bumpy roads calm babies. And it is why grabbing the swing seat and giving some fast­­––but tiny­­––jiggles is essential to flip on the calming reflex in a screaming, motion-loving baby.

(Of course, you must never shake your baby! When jiggling, always support your baby’s head and neck, and keep your movements to just a couple centimetres back and forth.)

More Tips for Calming Fussy Newborns That Will Not Sleep At Night

If vigourous rocking does not soothe your baby, you can try some of the below tips for calming fussy newborns and preventing nighttime fussing in the first place:

• Swaddling. Swaddling helps recreate the snug surroundings of the womb. We recommend trying the swaddling method found in our article “How to Swaddle a Baby.”
• Use white noise. While in the womb, your baby was constantly surrounded by noise and activity, so putting them down in a silent room feels really weird to them! That is where white noise comes into play. Check out our list of the best white noise sounds for your baby.
• Create a (flexible) schedule during the day. This will help prevent your little one from getting overtired...and cranky.
• Create a sleep-friendly environment. Your baby may be hot or cold, or maybe there is too much light in the room. Be sure to limit light at night, and keep your baby at a comfortable temperature.
• Encourage pooping. Some belly massage and knee-to-tummy exercises may help get things moving during the day so nighttime sleep is not disturbed.

Why Newborns Are Fussy at Night and Will Not Sleep

If your newborn is extremely fussy and will not stop crying or sleep, then some possible causes include: 

• Your baby is still hungry.
• Your newborn may be fussy because he is too hot or cold.
• Your newborn may not be ready to sleep because he has a dirty or wet nappy.
• Your baby may be experiencing tummy troubles. 
• Your newborn may be overstimulated.
• Your newborn may be fussy because he is overtired.
• Your baby may be sick. Take your baby’s temperature, and if he is running a fever, call your healthcare provider right away.

Final Thoughts: How to Calm Fussy Newborns That Will Not Sleep

Think of baby calming as a dance…and your little love is leading. When he is wailing, do the 5 S's with more intensity in your shush and jiggle. Then, as he calms, gradually reduce your effort and guide him down to a soft landing where he is swaddled with white noise (as loud as a shower), and perhaps some sucking or gentle rocking.

Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider. Breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It is important that, in preparation for and during breastfeeding, mothers eat a healthy, balanced diet. Combined breast- and bottle-feeding in the first weeks of life may reduce the supply of a mother's breastmilk and reversing the decision not to breastfeed is difficult. If you do decide to use infant formula, you should follow instructions carefully.