help babysitting a baby that won't stop crying?

Make sure he isn't ill. If he's running a fever, not eating, rubbing his ears (ear infection), teething, etc., he's going to be cranky. Best thing you can do for him, if he's not ill or teething, is to just nurture him. He's stressed and needs comfort. Hold him, try swaying/rocking him, try music/dancing, or most anything that's distracting. Whatever you do, just stay calm. Stressing will only make him feel worse. If he's teething, rubbing his gums can help a little. Infant Tylenol worked well for our daughter when the pain was bad. Make sure he's getting plenty of rest, food, clean diapers, and attention. If he continues to cry and it's excessive, you may have to phone his mother. She may have tips that work well for him.

All you can do is hold and soothe him and try to get his attention on something else. If it gets to the point where he is crying so hard he's making himself sick, I'd call his mother. Also, if it gets to the point where you are losing your patience and becoming aggravated with him, call his mother. I am a mom and I would much rather have a sitter be honest and call me, than to have them lose their cool with my baby. It sounds like you are doing a good job so far. Good luck.