Valley program offers tips to help parents with fussy babies

PHOENIX - Southwest Human Development says it’s seeing an increase when it comes to the numbers of shaken-baby syndrome.

The non-profit cites the recent economical situation as a factor in the increase.

The Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh reported a significant increase in cases of shaken-baby syndrome, in which youngsters are shaken violently by an adult.

Right now SHD is working with 135, 000 families across the state to offer solutions for parents dealing with fussy babies and other adolescent issues.

Arizona's largest child development agency says it wants the community to know that there is support for parents who are frustrated by their crying children.

Child development psychologist, Dr. Allison Steier, says parents can call the Fussy Baby program at 1-877-705-KIDS.

Caregivers will receive free, comprehensive assistance from child development experts and strategies for coping with crying children.
SHD also urges parents to consider these remedies:

1. Calm Yourself – You cannot bring calm unless you possess calm.

2. Ask yourself: Could my baby be in pain? Could my baby be hungry? Could my baby be tired? Could my baby be physically uncomfortable? Could my baby be bored?

3. Remember that you cannot spoil a baby by holding her too much or picking her up each time she cries.

New parents Erin and Shad Stephenson, of Surprise, said they received help through the Fussy Baby Program when their daughter, Riley, was just 3 weeks old.

"They gave us a magnet when we left the hospital," Erin said. "I think I've called about 17 times."

The Stephensons got advice on how to soothe Riley and help her establish a sleep routine.

Now 14 months old, Riley's mom said she's an active and healthy toddler and she urges other moms who are looking for some help or just someone to talk to call SHD.