Colic Relief

col-ic [kol-ik]: noun

A condition marked by recurrent episodes of prolonged and uncontrollable crying and irritability in an otherwise healthy infant that is of unknown cause and usually subsides after three to four months of age.

That’s the definition according to ol’ Merriam-Webster. Ask any mom with a colicy baby and she’ll probably describe it as an unbearably stressful, heartbreaking, exhausting, testing, and self-esteem zapping eternity.

Elizabeth Pantley has birthed four children and 8 wildly popular parenting books, earning her the title of “expert” from the likes of Parents and Parenting Magazines, Woman’s Day, and Good Housekeeping.

In her “Gentle Baby Care: No-cry, No-fuss, No-worry -- Essential Tips for Raising Your Baby”, Pantley weighs in on colic and gives some helpful tips for soothing your baby (and your sanity!) until the sobbing subsides.

“Since colic occurs in newborns, parents often feel that they are doing something wrong to create the situation… The most important piece of research I discovered was this: It’s not your fault. Any baby can have colic… Remember that nothing you do will eliminate colic completely until your baby’s system is mature and able to settle on its own. That said, experienced parents and professionals can offer ways to help your baby though this time ~ ask around! I did, and from what I uncovered, I compiled the following suggestions for helping your baby feel better.”

• If breastfeeding, feed on demand and avoid foods that may cause gas


• If bottlefeeding, try giving smaller portions more frequently and test out different types of bottles


• If your baby likes a pacifier, offer him one (> shop WubbaNub Pacifiers)


• Give your baby a warm bath


• Invest in a good cling or carrier to walk around with your baby during outbursts (> shop baby carriers and baby slings)


• Gently massage your baby’s tummy


• Swaddle your baby in a warm blanket (> shop baby swaddling blankets and receiving blankets)


• Avoid sensory overload by keeping your baby away from highly stimulating activities during the day

This is just a touch on Pantley’s tips. Check out the rest and her other best-selling books at www.pantley.com/elizabeth