When your baby cries, he is trying to tell you something. You just have to figure out
what it is. Here are some things your baby may be trying to tell you.
He may be hungry. Babies may need to eat more often than you expect. If it has been an
hour or more since your baby was fed, he may be hungry.
He may be lonely. If your baby calms and stays calm as soon as you pick him up, he
missed you! Your baby’s need for closeness is very real. You can’t spoil a baby by
cuddling him when he needs it.
He may have wet diapers. Some babies don’t mind; others do.
He may be sleepy. Some babies fuss a bit before sleeping.
He may be in pain. Your baby may be sick. He may be uncomfortable because a pin is
pricking him or his clothes have sharp tags or zippers.
He may be cold or hot. Feel your baby’s back or tummy to see if he is too cool or too
hot. Adjust clothing to make him comfortable. Dress your baby like yourself or one
layer warmer.
He may be over-stimulated. Sometimes your baby may get too excited about everything
going on around him. Rock your baby in a dimly lit room to calm him.
Do not shake or spank your baby. Shaking can permanently hurt your baby’s brain.
Babies do not mean to upset you. At this age, they can’t control when they start to cry.
They are too young to understand how much their crying can get on your nerves and
will cry more if you treat them roughly.
If you’ve tried everything-feeding, changing, cuddling and your baby still cries, try this:
Call a friend or relative to watch your baby for an hour. Everyone needs a break like
this at times.