Researchers believe that babies increase how much they cry between birth and two months. That is why it’s so important to learn what the cries mean and how to cope with the increased crying. When your baby is crying, use this checklist to help figure out what the cries mean.
* Does your baby have a wet or soiled diaper? Check her diaper to see if she needs to be changed.
* Is she hungry? Offer her some food and see if she is ready to eat. Be sure to burp your baby often to get out air bubbles.
* Is he lonely? Call his name to let him know you are coming. He may even stop crying before you get there. If your baby calms and stays calm after you pick him up, he missed you! Your baby’s need for closeness is very real.
* Is he bored? Give your baby a new view. Change his position. Hang something over the crib that he can see but not reach. Put him where he can keep an eye on you.
* Is she tired? Some babies get fussy before falling to sleep.
* Is he too hot or too cold? Touch your baby’s tummy. If he feels too hot or too cold, adjust his clothing. Try to keep the room an even temperature — neither too hot, nor too cold.
* Is he uncomfortable? Does he have diaper rash? Leave diapers off so air can help his skin heal. Is your baby’s clothing too tight? Is a pin pricking him? Are there sharp or scratchy edges on labels or zippers?
* Is there too much going on around your baby? Take him to a quiet place with dim lights. Hold him close and talk to him with your soothing voice. Sit in a rocking chair, holding your baby, and rock with him.
* Is your baby having trouble calming down? Sing a gentle song over and over. Play soft, soothing music. Swaddle your baby by wrapping him in a soft, light blanket to keep him from thrashing about. Help him learn to comfort himself. Hold his hand in yours, or help him find his hand to suck on.
* Could your baby have colic? Colicky babies have tummy pains and loud, piercing cries. Sometimes, this will help: Lay your baby across your knees. Rub or pat his back. Walk with your baby, or use an infant swing. Change bath time to evening. Try a pacifier. Sucking helps relax his stomach. If you use a pacifier, use it safely. Replace pacifiers frequently because they can fall apart. To avoid strangulation, do not put a pacifier on a string or ribbon around your baby's neck. Wash the pacifier if it falls on the floor.

Talk to your baby’s doctor for more ideas.