Crying is your baby’s way of communicating. A baby’s crying can be stressful and frustrating. Sometimes there is no clear reason why a baby cries and nothing you do will seem to help. Remember, crying is normal.
Facts about crying babies:
- They cry often.
- They can cry more in the late afternoon or evening.
- They can have at least one fussy period each day.
- They can cry more at three to twelve weeks.
- Parents and caregivers may feel angry, frustrated and may cry themselves.
It’s okay to put your baby in the crib and let them cry for a few minutes to give yourself a break.
Reach out for help. You can call a friend, family member, your public health nurse, community or faith leader, a social service agency, the distress line 416-408-HELP (4357) or Health811 at 8-1-1.
Why Do Babies Cry?
Babies cry to communicate their needs. Here are some common reasons and ways to comfort them:
Hunger
- Feed your baby. Some days, your baby may be hungrier than usual.
- Offer the breast often if it helps soothe your baby.
Needs to Be Close and Comforted
- Hold, rock, massage, or gently dance with your baby in your arms.
- Sit together in a rocking chair.
- Talk and sing to your baby.
- Hold your baby skin to skin.
- Take a warm bath with your baby.
- Go for walk with your baby in your arms, in a sling or stroller.
- Lie down beside your baby while you breastfeed.
- Let someone else hold your baby.
Pain or Discomfort
- Pick up and comfort your baby.
- Change your baby’s diaper.
- Burp your baby or rub their back.
- Change your baby’s position.
Too Hot/Too Cold
- Check if your baby is too hot or cold by touching their back or chest. Hands and feet may feel cool even when your baby is warm enough.
- Dress your baby as warmly as you are – plus one extra layer.
Tired or Over Stimulated
- Turn lights off and keep surroundings quiet.
- Rock your baby gently.
Remember: When your baby is tired, it’s important to place them in a safe sleep space.
Needs a Change of Scenery
- Move to a different room so your baby can look at new things.
- Try one thing at a time, and give your baby time to respond.
- Try what has helped before.
Illness
If your baby’s cry sounds different to you or they can’t be soothed after trying everything, contact your health care provider or call Health811 at 811.
Shaken Baby Syndrome
Shaken Baby Syndrome is a serious brain injury that occurs when a baby is violently shaken. Health professionals now call it Traumatic Head Injury due to Child Maltreatment. Shaking a baby is a form of child abuse and can cause serious harm, including:
- Brain damage
- Permanent disabilities like blindness or paralysis
- In some cases, death
Never, never shake a baby or young child!
Download, What is Shaken Baby Syndrome?/ Why do Babies Cry? (pdf). Also available in other languages.
For more information:
Canadian Pediatric Society (Caring for Kids) - Colic and crying.
Sick Kids (About Kids Health) - Crying in Newborns
