7 Ways to Make a Fussy Baby Smile

We’ve all had one of those days.  Baby is cranky.  Mommy isn’t happy.  The solution? Time to get silly! Try one of these seven ideas to turn that baby frown upside down:

1.  Rockabye Baby

As simple as it sounds, sometimes all baby needs is to be rocked in the bassinet or cradled in your arms to calm down.  This one should be the first on your list for ways to soothe baby.

2.  This Little Piggy

“This little piggy went to market…this little piggy stayed home.”  There is something about nibbling on those tiny fingers and feet that babies can’t resist. They absolutely love it.

3.  Peek-a-boo

Another classic that is usually a favorite for babies. Grab a blanket, hide behind a piece of furniture, or do it the old-fashioned way and just use your hands.

4.  Mrs. Silly Face

Babies love attention, and making faces at them, no matter how silly, only reinforces that.  The more exaggerated the face, the better.

5.  Monkey Noises

This one may sound a bit odd, but I’ve found that the little one stops fussing the moment I start “Oo-oo-Ah”ing.  Maybe he just thinks mama is cuckoo, but it works!

6.  Blowing Raspberries

It’s no secret that babies crave touch. Gently blowing raspberries on those tiny hands, feet and belly are the perfect way to make a baby smile.  Who doesn’t love this?

7.  Smile & Laugh, First

Sometimes all you need to do is show baby what you want him to do first, so he can learn to model that behavior.  We forget the simple stuff sometimes :)!