Secrets of The Baby Whisperer

My little one is six weeks old in two days. No major milestones this week except a growth spurt that has left her happier and chubbier. She is also smiling quite a bit more.

Now on to the real purpose of my blog today- My mom bought me this book, "Secrets of the Baby Whisperer" by  Tracy Hogg. I didnt dive into it for a few days because, frankly I had no time. Finally I had a few minutes to look it over and let me tell you... I made time.

In just five short hours (with breaks to take care of baby, obviously)- I have learned to recognize a few of Brianna's cries, namely hungry, and bored. I can also recognize some of her physical cues that mean hungry or the need to "suck" whether it be her fingers or a paci. I am still learning the cry for dirty diaper, tired etc.

With my new knowlege I have successfully placed her down for two naps today IN HER CRIB!! I have also fed her, when she was actually hungry which resulted in the first feed in forever where she did not fuss and fool around.

Here are some of the cry interpretations in the book:

Tired or Overtired: starts as cranky, irregular-frequency fussing, but if not stopped quickly, it escalates to an overtired cry: first three short wails followed by a hard cry, then two short breaths and a longer, even  louder cry.

Needs Change of Scenery: Cranky fussing that starts with noises of annoyance rather than outright cries.

Hunger: Slight coughlike sound in the bak of the throat; then out comes the first cry. Its short to begin with then more steady: waa, waa, waa rhythem.

Overstimulated: Long, hard cry, similar to overtired.

Pain/Gas: Unmistakable shrill, high-pitched scream that comes without warning.

Too Cold: Full-out crying with bottom lip quivering.

Too Hot: Fussy whine that sounds more like panting, low at first, about five minutes; if left alone will eventually launch into a cry.

"Where'd you go? I need a cuddle": Cooing sounds suddenly turn into little short waas that sound like a kitten; crying disappears the minute baby is picked up.

Overfeeding: Fussing, even crying, after meal.

Bowel Movement: Grunts or cries while feeding.

It turns out I was feeding her when she wasn't hungry, she was just overly tired and just needing to suck. I was also putting her to bed after she had gotten overly tired and passed the point of no return...every single time.

Anyway, just had to share. I can't wait to finish the book!!

Love,

Catherine