Crying is a baby’s way of communicating. Some cry for up to four hours a day. But that doesn’t make hearing it any easier for parents.
 

So what can you do to help your baby?
 

First, know why your baby is crying

• Maybe he’s hungry?
• Or too hot or too cold?
• Maybe her diaper needs changing?
• Possibly he’s teething?
• Is he getting sick? Does he have a fever or other signs of illness (stuffy nose)?
• Is she colicky?
• Maybe he’s bored, tired or overstimulated?
• Maybe she’s frightened by a loud noise or by strangers?

Soothe your baby

• Respond quickly when your baby cries during the first few months of life. If you respond quickly to your baby's cries, she may cry less overall.
   
• To soothe your baby, play soft music, walk with her, rock her, hold her in a sling or front carrier, or swaddle her in a blanket as you carry or hold her. Car rides and soft noises, like running water, sometimes can be soothing. Record sounds or buy CDs that calm your baby.
   
• Call your baby's provider if you can't soothe her or if she pulls up her legs or passes gas often. She may have colic (intense crying for more than 3 hours a day).
   
• Calm yourself in order to calm your baby: count out loud to 10 or more; turn on your favorite music; phone a friend or relative for support or to come over and help out; write down your thoughts; call your baby’s doctor.
   

For more information about crying, please check out these resources:

Click Here to check out information on Soothing Your Baby When He or She Cries from the March of Dimes web site.

Parenting Related Hotline:     1-800-352-5683