Infant and Baby Needs

Babies cry for many different reasons and believe it or not the cries for different situations will sound different. Nobody says you have to know all of your baby’s cries in an instant but here is a simple primer to help you detect the most common baby cries.

Hi Mommy! - Sometimes your baby just wants your attention. Simply picking up your baby for a snuggle can put this cry to rest. Hold your baby close for a few moments and see if the crying doesn’t stop before moving on.

Your baby will the most during her first three months. The crying time can very greatly. Seriously just get used to it. It’s how they communicate.

Babies are very sensitive to their surroundings.  A stressed out mother. An irritated father. Loud noises. Too hot. Too cold. Pay attention to your baby’s environment to help calm frantic cries. As your baby grows from newborn to a few weeks old they actually seem to become more sensitive to these external factors so keep that in mind.

Here are some of the things your tiny baby is trying to make you understand through crying.

Baby is Hungry: The most common reason for a babies cries. They are simply hungry and need to be fed. When baby’s tummy rummbles you’ll hear this rhythmical cry that will get steadily louder until the need is met. Time for lunch!

I want to play!: Babies get bored too. They are also spoiled and used to being carried a lot. Some say you can carry a baby too much. I say not but then I’m no expert.  Your baby wants some simple stimulation. Don’t rush for the videos and electronic gadgets though. Try baby wearing, singing to your little one or see if someone else is around to share in the fun. As baby grows supply with plenty of toys that stimulate the imagination and encourage motor skills. Baby puzzles are great for this. Your baby needs this stimulation while awake. And here’s a tip: If you give your baby good playing time after their meal they will sleep well at the next nap time.

Ouch!: Babies also cry when in pain. This is distressing for mommy and baby. You will probably know when and if your baby is in pain from something. It can be nerve wracking but also look for areas of your baby’s body that they may be favoring. Fingers, legs, tummy. It can be difficult and don’t hesitate to call the doctor or on call nurse who can help you pinpoint the pain.

I need a change: Although it is commonly thought that baby’s cry from being wet or having a messy diaper that is not always the case. Look for other cues and clues as to when baby has used their diaper.

Babies can cry for many reasons. Sudden noises, sleepy and cranky, illnesses are just a few more reason. Don’t stress yourself out trying to detect it all at once. As you and your baby grow together it will come. Having a cheat sheet of sorts can help at times you feel your brain won’t work. Feel free to print this out.