Crying Babies

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Infant crying is normal, and it will stop. There may be times of the day when your baby tends to cry a lot and cannot be comforted. Early evening is the most common time for this to happen.

This can be hard for you, as it’s often the time when you’re most tired and least able to cope.

Babies cry for many reasons. They are hardwired to cry whenever they need a parent to help them. This is because their brains have yet to develop the circuits that allow for self-control or understanding. Crying is meant to be upsetting for a parent. Crying is nature’s way of making sure everyone pays attention quickly.

Sometimes it’s easy to work out what your baby wants, and sometimes it’s not.

The most common reasons for crying are:
Hunger
A dirty or wet nappy
Tiredness
Wanting a cuddle
Wind
Being too hot or too cold
Boredom
Overstimulation
Babies start to cry more frequently from around 2 weeks of age. The crying may get more frequent and last longer. After 8 weeks of age babies start to cry less each week.
ICON is a national program to help support you and your family in the early days
Infant crying is normal
Comforting methods can help
It’s OK to walk away
Never, ever shake a baby

Babies cry …you can cope!

Try calling a friend or relative who may be able to calm you down or help you with your baby.

Try relaxation techniques such as square breathing or box breathing.

We know that a calm, slow breath will help you feel calm and in control.

Why it’s important to try and stay calm…..

Babies can’t think like older children, but they do experience strong feeling and bodily sensations. They are very sensitive to their environment and people around them and to sounds, smells and emotions in the room.

What not to do….

Handling your baby roughly will make you baby more upset.

Sometimes parents or people looking after babies get frustrated by the crying and lose control.

They can act on impulse and shake their baby.

This is very dangerous and can cause:

  • Blindness
  • Learning Disabilities
  • Seizures
  • Physical Disabilities
  • Or even death

Partner/dad advice

Being a new parent and a supporting partner is tough. A new baby does not come with a manual! Your baby’d crying can be stressful and it’s always useful to hear how other dads have coped.

When you need help

There is support for parents with crying and sleepless babies. Call the CRY-SIS Helpline 0800 448 0737

Remember…This phase will stop!

As baby gets older, they will feel safer because they know their needs will be met and they will be able to wait a very short time.

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