We all need downtime—even the very youngest among us. Here are some signs your baby is overstimulated and needs some peaceful, safe, alone time, or at least some quiet one-on-one time with his favorite person—you!
Babies can become overwhelmed and overstimulated when they:
- Are tired
- Have been held or handled a lot, or passed around to several people
- Their routine is disrupted]
- They are not feeling well
You’ll know your little one needs some quiet time when he or she:
- Looks away as if upset
- Cries or fusses and becomes more difficult to distract or please
- Makes jerky movements, clenches fists or waves arms and legs
- Clenches fists and waves arms and legs
Calming the Overstimulated Baby
Pay close attention to your baby and try to guess at what is bothering him or her. If there are many people in the room, consider taking the baby to a quiet, darker room and sit with or rock him or her. If the TV or music is blaring, try turning these off.
Cuddle, stroke or pat your baby gently. Try placing him or her in the crib to nap.
See also ...
• VIDEO: What an overstimulated baby looks like
This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.
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