Advice: How can I keep my baby calm while changing his nappy?
How can I keep my baby calm while changing his nappy? I worry I'm causing the upset and it's making me dread changing time, especially if we're out of the house.
You're not alone in suffering from nappy nerves. Research by WaterWipes has revealed a third of new parents feel totally unprepared when changing a nappy and over half feel flustered to do so in public.
One of the most powerful tools you have to help calm baby is your voice. Studies show even a newborn baby finds emotional comfort in their mother's voice, so keep talking in a soothing way while you're changing a nappy as this will create a calm atmosphere. Your baby may not stop crying, but he'll hear your voice and be reassured.
'Don't be tempted to pick baby up midway as this won't soothe him, it'll only prolong the process'
Also, remember your baby is crying to communicate with you, not because he's upset with you, as this will help you stay calm too.
Continue talking and making eye contact until you're finished changing the nappy and don't be tempted to pick baby up midway as this won't soothe him, it'll only prolong the process.
Aim to get through the change as fast as you can, while soothing your baby with your voice.
As soon as the dry nappy is on, pick your baby up for big cuddles to calm him down completely."
Parenting expert Lisa Clegg, author of the Blissful Baby Expert and the Blissful Toddler Expert
