Letting Baby Cry It Out With A Cold
Introduction
As a parent, it can be heartbreaking to watch your little one suffer from a cold. You might wonder if it's okay to let them cry it out, or if you should comfort them every time they start to fuss. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of letting baby cry it out with a cold.
The Benefits of Letting Baby Cry It Out
Many parents choose to let their babies cry it out when they're sick because it can help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. This is especially important when your little one is dealing with a cold, as sleep is crucial for their recovery.
Another benefit of letting baby cry it out is that it can help them learn to self-soothe. By allowing them to cry for a little while, you're giving them the opportunity to figure out how to calm themselves down. This can be a valuable skill that they'll use throughout their life.
The Risks of Letting Baby Cry It Out
While there are some benefits to letting baby cry it out with a cold, there are also some risks to consider. One of the biggest risks is that your little one may become overly stressed and upset, which can make their cold symptoms worse.
Another risk of letting baby cry it out is that it can interfere with their ability to get the rest they need. If they're crying for long periods of time, they may become overtired and have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
When to Let Baby Cry It Out
So, when is it okay to let baby cry it out with a cold? The answer depends on a few factors, such as the severity of their cold symptoms and their age.
If your baby has a mild cold and is over 6 months old, it's generally safe to let them cry it out for short periods of time. However, if they're younger than 6 months or their cold symptoms are severe, it's best to comfort them whenever they start to cry.
Tips for Comforting Baby with a Cold
If you decide that letting baby cry it out isn't the best option for them, there are plenty of other ways to comfort them while they're dealing with a cold. Here are some tips:
- Offer plenty of fluids to keep them hydrated
- Use a humidifier to ease congestion
- Try saline drops and a bulb syringe to clear their nose
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free baby chest rub to help ease coughing
- Offer plenty of snuggles and comforting words
Conclusion
Deciding whether or not to let baby cry it out with a cold can be a tough call. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide what's best for your little one based on their age, the severity of their cold symptoms, and your own parenting style.
If you do choose to let baby cry it out, be sure to monitor them closely and offer plenty of comfort when they need it. And if you decide that letting them cry it out isn't the right choice, there are plenty of other ways to help them feel better while they're dealing with a cold.