Hearing a baby cry for his first time is a welcome relief.
Hearing a baby cry on and on can be frustrating for any caregiver.

Babies Cry

All babies cry, some more than others.
Crying periods are usually worst in the first 6-8 weeks.  Crying for 2-3 hours each day in the first 3 months is considered normal.

Babies cry because they can't talk.
Your baby may need to say that he is hungry, wet,
sick, or hurting.  He may just be saying that he is
tired or frustrated.

Babies do not cry because they are mad at you. 
Do not take it personally if you can't soothe a crying baby.  Do follow a CRYING PLAN.

 

 
To make your CRYING PLAN
click here.

To share your tips on what calmed
your crying baby,
visit the Crying Plan Forum

Have a Plan

It's important to have a CRYING PLAN that you (or anyone watching your baby) can follow when the crying starts.

1.  Check the baby's basic needs:
     Is it time to eat?
     Does he need to burp after eating?
     Is it time for a diaper change?
     Is he too hot?  Too cold?
     Are there any signs your baby might be sick?
     (fever, vomiting)  Seek medical care right
     away if you have any concerns!

2.   Try soothing your baby:
      Hold her close and rock, walk or sway side
      to side while standing
      Offer a pacifier (but do not force if refused)
      Swaddle her with a blanket
      Play soft music or a repetitive sound
      Take her for a walk in a stroller or a ride in
      a car seat

3.   If your baby is not sick or hurt, but
      continues to cry in spite of your
      efforts, remember:
      IT IS OK to put your baby in a safe place
      (crib, infant seat) and let him cry while you
      take a break or call someone to help you.
      IT IS MORE IMPORTANT TO STAY CALM
      than it is to quiet the baby.
      IT IS NEVER OK TO SHAKE A BABY.  
      This can cause severe injuries or permanent
      damage known as Shaken Baby Syndrome.

4.   Ask some of your friends or family if
      you can put them on your CRYING
      PLAN.  Keep a list of people you can call if
      you need help during a crying period.  Make
      sure anyone who is going to watch your baby
      knows the CRYING PLAN, including other
      people they can call.

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CRYING PLAN is sponsored by the Arkansas Children's Trust Fund and the UAMS Center for Children at Risk