A baby cries for different reasons and is expressing his needs in the only way he knows. Below are the common reasons why a baby cries:
#1: He is hungry or needs a feed
When you have not fed your baby for a few hour and he also just emptied his bowels, then he is most probably feeling hungry. After a few weeks, you will learn the baby’s routine and how often he needs to be fed. This enables you to make all the necessary preparations early like always having hot water and cooled boiled water ready to cut down on preparation time. In addition, some babies do get hungry quicker and need to be fed more often.
I notice my own children prefer smaller but more frequent feeds during the daytime and nighttime as well.
#2: He is tired
Babies generally need a lot of sleep time. If your baby has been awake for a few hours, he may be tired and fussy. If you notice the signs like yawning or wandering attention, put your baby to sleep in his normal sleeping environment.
#3: He is over stimulated
Too much stimulation may also tire your baby easily and he may cry or whine requesting for time out or a break.
#4: He is bored
Your baby naturally likes to learn new things. If he is left alone with nobody to play with or has nothing new that catches his interest, he may just cry. As he develops physically, starting from the age of 3 months, he is looking for more things to learn and capture his attention.
photo credit: lenifuzhead
#5: He is in pain or discomfort
If your baby is feeling uncomfortable, for example too hot, too cold or has teething pain, then he will cry. He is requesting for you to ease his pain or discomfort. If your baby is sick, then look out for the symptoms like a fever, diarrhea, vomiting, etc. It is always safe to bring him to the doctor to ensure everything is fine.
#6: He wants your company
Some babies love being cuddled or hold. When they want some interaction or someone to touch or stroke them, they may cry for it.
#7: He has colic
Some babies around the age of 3 to 16 weeks may show signs of having colic. Some of the signs are a red and angry face, a tense abdomen, knees drawn up, constipation and the baby is difficult to sooth.
photo credit: Emi PhotoArt
#8: He is throwing a tantrum
Surprise, surprise! Even babies know how to throw a tantrum. Some babies want to have their own way from an early age. If you notice this problem you can try to distract him from it. For example, distract him by giving him a toy or playing a music or song.
The above are the most common reasons to explain your baby’s cries. The parents normally have a hard time hearing their babies cry and not knowing the reason for it. Understanding what your baby wants makes it easier for you to sooth him.
Related posts: