Baby Zap has two smart, caring parents and yet he is desperately cranky. A usually foolproof toy doesn’t stop the tears, nor does his bottle, although recommended by a parenting book which usually has all the right answers. Oddly enough, a cuddle works perfectly, especially when the whole family hugs each other together. On some days, the emotional needs of a baby come first. It may surprise you but even if she is hungry, there will be times when feeding your baby will not soothe her. She is trying to tell you she needs something else first. Even if she usually delights in playing with a favourite toy, her inconsolable crying tells you that it won’t work this time. If sucking generally soothes her but she rejects the bottle, pacifier or breast, it means she has other dominant needs at that point. When your baby is crying hard, it is important to remain calm. Although Mom and Dad Zap were confused because their usual soothing tactics were not working this time, they managed to remain calm. This is very difficult, but in the long run it is easier on both baby and parents if you can comfort baby when you’re calm. Sometimes, when every tried and true method has failed, a cuddle is all that is required.
| 
