Why do babies cry?
When you’re a new parent your baby’s cries can be overwhelming. Remember it’s a new world outside the womb and your little one is adjusting to his new surroundings. Even knowing this, you may still be left wondering "WHY is my baby crying?" Crying is your baby’s way of talking to you and is a normal part of his growth and development; don’t fear it, learn from it.
Why babies cry can vary widely, but hunger, fussiness, wetness and being uncomfortable or tired are all reasons he’ll try to communicate with you by crying. And while some babies may cry more than others, they can eventually grow out of it.* So be patient, soon enough those tears will turn into smiles.
Why is my baby crying: The crying curve
Baby’s crying can follow a developmental pattern during the first three months of life – this pattern is referred to by many healthcare professionals as “the crying curve”1,2
- According to the crying curve, most babies’ crying begins to increase from 2-3 weeks of age, peaks around 6-8 weeks of age and then begins to gradually decline as they approach 12 weeks of age.
- Crying tends to occur more frequently in the evening, but can also occur throughout the day1,2,3.
* Speak to your doctor if your baby’s crying is accompanied by fever, vomiting or diarrhea, if you feel there is a significant change in behaviour or could be due to an injury.
References:
1 Brazelton, TB. Crying in infancy. Pediatrics 29:579-588, 1962.
2 Hunziker, UA, Barr, RG. Increased carrying reduces infant crying: a randomized controlled trial. Pediatrics 77:641-648, 1986.
3 Sacks, D. ed. The Canadian Paediatric Society: Guide to Caring for Your Child from Birth to Age Five. Mississauga: John Wiley & Sons, Canada, 2009.
Related articles
How to Soothe a Baby with Colic
Got a fussy baby? Infantile colic is characterized by intense, uncontrolled crying or fussing in an otherwise healthy and well-fed baby. About 20% of babies suffer from colic.
4 mins to read
What to ask at my first well-child visit?
Your first well-child visit will be carried out soon after birth to ensure baby’s development is on track.
2 mins to read
Kangaroo care: How to take care of your preterm baby
What is kangaroo care and how can it help you to take care of your preterm baby?
6 mins to read
Baby immunizations—a parent’s guide
Immunization time—gulp! Your baby’s first injections can be upsetting parents and babies. If you are anxious, your baby may pick up on your feelings so try to stay calm.
3 mins to read
New mom emotions to look out for and how to deal with them
Having a baby and becoming a first-time parent is a massive emotional rollercoaster. Here are 9 emotions after giving birth that you may be experiencing.
3 mins to read
Overcoming breastfeeding problems
Breastfeeding doesn’t always come naturally but with a bit of practice, perseverance, and a few pointers, it can get easier. Try these steps to help tackle breastfeeding problems.
2 mins to read
How to soothe a colicky baby
Healthy babies cry. It helps them to express their needs and some babies cry more than others.
3 mins to read
Disposable-diaper-changing routine
You’re going to do a lot of diaper changing over the next few months and years, so here’s a helpful diaper changing routine.
2 mins to read
How to get Baby to Sleep & Fight Fatigue
Getting enough sleep during the first months of your baby's life means adjusting to your own new sleep habits and those of your baby.
3 mins to read
Breastfeeding: How your husband can help | Don't forget your support system
An action plan for your family and friends
3 mins to read
Bath time checklist: How to bathe a newborn
Washing a newborn for the first time can be nerve-racking as well as a lovely bonding moment. Follow our tips on how to bathe a newborn safely.
4 mins to read
How to emotionally prepare for parenthood before becoming a mom
Amazing news! You’re expecting your first baby. But what can you do to emotionally prepare for parenthood?
3 mins to read
Combination Feeding: Combining Breast Feeding & Formula-Feeding
Combination feeding, also known as mixed feeding or combo feeding, is when you feed your baby both breast milk and infant formula.
4 mins to read
How to give a baby massage
Baby massages are a great opportunity for interacting with your baby and for skin-to-skin contact. Find out what to do with this baby tummy massage breakdown.
2 mins to read
How to be a confident parent: start today with six easy steps
Becoming a new parent and bringing your newborn home, can be a daunting experience to navigate.
3 mins to read
Why babies cry
Did you know? Up to 20% of healthy babies may cry inconsolably during their first weeks of life. This is often called ‘colic’.
2 mins to read
Bottle-feeding tips
Bottle-feeding might look easy but there’s a fair bit to swallow. So here’s a list of bottle-feeding tips, covering bottle-feeding positions, setting a bottle-feeding routine, and more.
2 mins to read
Baby Feeding and Nutrition: The Guide
How will you feed your newborn?
7 mins to read
Baby vaccine schedule
Early childhood immunizations are an important safeguard against serious and sometimes life-threatening illnesses for your baby.
4 mins to read
Related tools
Article finder
Expert articles and tips about development, parenting support, and nutrition
Product finder
Find Nestlé Nutrition Products right for you and your baby
Checklists finder tool
Checklists and tips to help along your parenting journey
Recipe Finder
Find recipes for you and your little one.
