Balancing Work and Caring for a Teething Baby

2 August 2025

Parenthood is a full-time job, but so is your career. So, how do you juggle both when your little one is teething and needs extra comfort?

Teething is one of those phases that can turn peaceful nights into sleepless marathons and calm days into fussy chaos. And if you’re working—whether from home or in an office—this can add an extra layer of stress. But don’t worry! This article will help you navigate the storm while keeping your sanity intact.

Understanding the Teething Phase

Before we dive into solutions, let’s get a clear picture of what's happening.

What Age Do Babies Start Teething?

Teething typically starts around 4 to 7 months, but every baby is different. Some show signs earlier, while others take their sweet time. The first teeth to emerge are usually the bottom front teeth (lower central incisors).

Common Signs of Teething

- Drooling (A LOT of it!)
- Chewing on everything in sight
- Irritability and mood swings
- Trouble sleeping
- Slight fever (below 100.4°F)
- Refusing food due to gum discomfort

If your little one is dealing with these symptoms, they need extra soothing. And that’s where the challenge begins—caring for them while meeting deadlines or attending meetings.

How to Balance Work and a Teething Baby

1. Adjust Your Work Schedule (If Possible)

Flexibility is your best friend right now. If your job allows remote work or flexible hours, take advantage of it.
- Early Mornings & Late Nights: If your baby is extra fussy during the day, consider shifting some work to early mornings or evenings when they’re asleep.
- Time Blocking: Schedule focused work sessions during nap times to maximize productivity.

2. Communicate with Your Employer

If you’re struggling, don’t suffer in silence. Many employers are becoming more understanding of working parents.
- Let them know about your situation.
- Request flexible hours, if possible.
- If teething is affecting your performance, ask for temporary workload adjustments.

3. Keep Your Baby Comfortable While You Work

You don’t need to pause your whole day every time your baby fusses—though it may feel that way! Here are some tricks to help soothe them while you stay on top of work.

Teething Relief Methods

- Cold Teething Toys: Chilled (but not frozen) teething rings work wonders.
- Frozen Washcloth: A clean, damp washcloth in the freezer for a few minutes is an excellent homemade remedy.
- Gentle Gum Massage: Wash your hands and gently rub their gums with a clean finger.
- Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeds: Some babies find comfort in nursing or sucking on a bottle.
- Safe Teething Biscuits: If your baby has started solids, these can be a good distraction.

4. Utilize Baby-Wearing for Hands-Free Comfort

A baby carrier or wrap allows your little one to be close to you while you get things done. This is especially useful if your baby wants to be held all the time (which happens a lot during teething).

- A front-facing carrier can keep them happy while you answer emails.
- Gentle rocking motions while wearing them can soothe them back to sleep.

5. Take Advantage of Nap Time

Nap times are golden opportunities! Instead of scrolling through social media or binge-watching shows (tempting, we know!), focus on high-priority tasks.

- Knock out important work during these quiet moments.
- If you're exhausted, take a power nap—you’ll need the extra energy.

6. Enlist Support

You don’t have to do it all alone. Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s smart parenting.

Who can help lighten your load?
- Your Partner: If you’re co-parenting, divide responsibilities. Maybe your partner takes the night shift while you focus on the morning workload.
- Family & Friends: A few hours of babysitting can do wonders.
- Daycare or a Babysitter: If your work demands undivided attention, consider professional help, even if it’s just part-time.

7. Have a Set of Emergency Distractions

Sometimes, your baby just won’t stop fussing, and you have a critical deadline or meeting. In these cases, a little distraction can buy you some time.

- Sensory Play: A bin filled with soft toys or textured objects.
- Teething Necklace: Some moms wear silicone teething necklaces that babies love to chew on.
- Baby-Friendly Shows: While screen time isn’t ideal for infants, some background music or soothing visuals can keep them engaged for short periods.

Self-Care: Don’t Forget About You!

Caring for your teething baby while working can take a toll on your mental health. You need self-care too!

1. Set Realistic Expectations

Some days will be chaos, and that’s okay. Everything doesn’t have to be perfect. Recognize that there will be productive days and messy ones—and both are completely fine.

2. Take Micro Breaks

- Step outside for 5 minutes of fresh air.
- Stretch or do a quick breathing exercise.
- Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea (yes, while it’s still warm!).

3. Get Enough Rest When You Can

Sleep deprivation is real, and while you can’t avoid it entirely, you can still prioritize rest. If your baby has rough nights, take short naps during the day when possible.

4. Eat Well & Stay Hydrated

Exhaustion and stress can make you forget about yourself. Ensure you’re eating nutritious meals and staying hydrated. Proper nutrition will keep your energy levels up.

When to Call a Pediatrician

Teething can bring discomfort, but it shouldn’t cause high fevers or extreme illness. Call your pediatrician if your baby has:
- A fever above 100.4°F
- Persistent diarrhea or vomiting
- Extreme irritability that doesn’t improve
- Signs of an ear infection (pulling at ears, fluid discharge)

Final Thoughts

Balancing work and caring for a teething baby is no easy feat, but it’s doable with the right strategies. Flexibility, patience, and self-care are key.

Remember, this phase won’t last forever. Soon, your baby will have a full set of adorable little teeth, and life will feel more manageable again. Until then, take a deep breath, grab that teething toy, and know that you’re doing an amazing job.