When your baby cries

Crying is often the only way your baby knows to tell you they need something. Babies need to be comforted when they cry and you can't spoil them by giving them attention.

Sometimes you may know the reason – your baby may be hungry, tired, have wind, colic, be needing a loving cuddle, uncomfortable or in pain, feeling too hot or cold, have wet or dirty nappies, or be ill.  A lot of small babies have an evening crying session. You will soon learn their different cries, telling you how urgent the need is! Often it is a guess and at times your baby may cry no matter what you do.

Crying may well leave you short on sleep. You may worry that something is wrong. You may find it hard not to get stressed, upset, guilty or even angry. Be assured, such feelings are perfectly normal.

Helpful tips

• As they get older, your baby will cry less – poor sleep won't last forever.
• Give them plenty of attention – they won't be spoilt by too much love.
• Respond to crying, but remember some babies do often cry a little, before they sleep. So if this often happens, wait a few minutes before checking them.
• Check their nappy, whether they are too hot or too cold, need burping, or uncomfortable.
• Offer a feed if you think they are hungry, or it's been more than two hours since the last feed. Sometimes your baby is not hungry but wants to suck.
• Speak softly or sing, or play soft music. Your presence and voice may be calming.
• Try rocking, or walking.
• Turn down the lights.
• If you're getting stressed, try and get someone else to hold your baby for a while.
• Talk about it with friends – or call your Plunket nurse or GP.
• When you are breastfeeding sometimes the food you are eating can affect your baby. http://www.lalecheleague.org.nz/