Watching your baby go through teething can be a challenging time for both you and your little one. Teething can cause a lot of discomfort, which can lead to sleepless nights, irritability, and a loss of appetite. But with a few tips and tricks, you can make this phase a little easier for your baby, and for yourself as well. In this article, we’ll go over essential information you need to know to help soothe your teething infant.
Understanding Teething
Before we dive into the tips on how to help your baby, let’s talk about what teething is and why it happens. Teething is a process that typically starts around six months of age, but can happen as early as three months or as late as 12 months. During this time, your baby’s teeth start to come through their gums, which can be painful and uncomfortable. The process can take several months to complete, as your baby’s teeth come in one at a time.
Some common signs of teething include:
- Increased drooling
- Chewing on objects
- Irritability and fussiness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of appetite
Keep in mind that every baby is different, and may experience some or all of these symptoms, or none at all.
Tips for Soothing Your Teething Baby
Now that you know what to look for, here are some tips for helping your teething baby feel more comfortable:
Offer something to chew on Chewing on something can help relieve the pressure on your baby’s gums. A chilled teething ring or a cold washcloth to chew on can work wonders. Make sure that whatever you give your baby is clean and safe to chew on.
Use a teething gel or medication If your baby is in a lot of pain, you may consider using a teething gel or medication to help ease the discomfort. However, it’s important to talk to your pediatrician before giving your baby any medication, as some can be harmful if not used correctly.
Massage your baby’s gums
Gently massaging your baby’s gums can also help relieve the pressure and discomfort. You can use a clean finger or a soft, damp cloth to massage your baby’s gums.
Offer cool, soft foods
If your baby has started eating solid foods, you can offer them cool, soft foods like applesauce or yogurt. These can provide a soothing effect on your baby’s gums and bring some relief.
Provide extra cuddles and comfort
Sometimes all your baby needs is some extra cuddles and comfort during this difficult time. Hold your baby close, sing them a lullaby, or give them a warm bath to help them relax.
Teething in Daycare
If your baby is in daycare, it’s important to let your daycare provider know that your baby is teething. They may be able to offer some additional comfort and care to help your baby through this phase.
Make sure you provide any teething remedies, such as teething rings or medication, that you want your daycare provider to use. Additionally, if your baby is experiencing a lot of pain or discomfort, you may want to consider keeping them home until they feel better.
At Little Scholars Daycare Brooklyn, we understand how challenging teething can be for infants and their parents. That’s why we make it a priority to provide extra care and comfort to our little ones who are going through this phase. Our dedicated staff is trained to recognize the signs of teething, and we offer a variety of methods to soothe and comfort our teething infants. From providing safe and clean teething rings to offering extra cuddles and comfort, we strive to make this difficult time as smooth and easy as possible for both infants and parents. At Little Scholars Daycare, we care about every aspect of your child’s development, including their teething troubles, and we’re here to support you and your little one every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
Teething can be a difficult time for both you and your baby, but it’s a normal part of their development. By following the tips in this article, you can help your baby feel more comfortable and get through this phase as smoothly as possible. If you have any concerns about your baby’s teething or their overall health, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician. They can provide additional advice and support to help you and your baby through this phase.
Remember that every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. So, be patient and keep trying different methods until you find what works best for your baby. With a little bit of extra love and care, you and your baby can get through teething troubles together.
