Babies, teething, and musings

Last night had to be the worst Emma and I have had in a while. Crying beyond consolation, fighting to stay asleep, and just acting miserable. Now, most parents would guess teething. As she has 8 (with 9 & 10 on the horizon), and the whining for a day or so as her norm for cutting teeth, the jury is still out on this one.

I hate to complain, though. We have had it super easy. Emma cosleeps with me (gasp), nursing whenever she needs, which allows me to go right back to sleep and keeps her super happy. Cranky days come and go, but nothing a little cluster feeding, warm bath, and certain go-to's can't usually handle. We ALL have cranky days, though, right?! Anyway, here is my mostly-natural ways I keep my sweet girl, well, sweet;).

1. Breastfeeding 

This one was probably guessed, already. Since she controls the flow, she can nurse whenever she wants, without over-feeding. It's so much more than food. Mother's milk contains ingredients that curb pain! Never let anyone tell a mom she's nursing too much- that little one knows what's up!

2. "Chewbead" necklaces 

Not only do these give a baby something to do, since they're always "piddling", these necklaces are made for gnawing on. They come in dozens of colors and styles, and the latch is a choke-free clasp. BPA-free silicone makes these a safe and washable life-saver! 

3. Baltic Amber

Not a lot of evidence on efficacy on this one, but it's harmless all the same. Natural Baltic Amber contains succinic acid. This is also made in our body in small amounts, and can help take the edge off of pain, though it's frequently confused as a "pain killer." Not quite. The theory is that as we tense from pain, the body heat rises, activating the release from the amber, and thus helping ease it off. It's also really pretty, though, none-the-less. 

4. Lavender Oil
***A word of caution before I talk benefits: Essential oils, though naturally occurring, are still natural chemicals that can be toxic in high doses. Always consult with a certified herbalist (as peds may not have a clue) if you need dosing/usage guidance.*** Lavender oil has a wide range of uses, and when used properly, safe to use on infants/children. ALWAYS dilute with a "carrier oil", such as grapeseed, coconut, carrot, or even olive oil, to moderate the absorption. Lavender helps calm to allow sleep to happen. Just a whiff can bring tranquility back to your little one. Emma smiles when I massage the oil on her legs or temples. Its feels and smells so nice.


What are your tools for a cranky, teething baby? Feel free to comment below!

All the best,
Ashley

References and sources

http://www.chewbeads.com/

https://bohemian-baby-boutique.myshopify.com

http://alphamom.com/parenting/baby/amber-teething-necklaces-helpful-or-hype/

https://www.sciencebasedmedicine.org/amber-waves-of-woo/