Every baby cries. Yeah, I know it isn’t an earth shattering revelation but sometimes, when they seem to cry endlessly, it is hard to think straight. Just remember that it is not personal. They don’t cry because they think you are a lousy mother. It is their way of letting us know what they need. Look out for these cues, you will soon be an expert in deciphering your baby’s cry.

Hungry: Listen for the ‘neh’ sound in between cries. Put a finger next to her lip. If baby is hungry, she will try to ‘latch’ on to the finger.

Thirsty: Similar to being hungry. Baby will nurse for a shorter time.

Windy: Baby might make an ‘eh’ grunty sound. Their tummy might be tight. You could lift baby’s legs so that they are in a squatting position to help them pass wind. I find holding baby upright and burp her against my shoulder works best to ease their discomfort.

Bored: Pick baby up and give her some attention. Switch baby’s toys or view and see if baby is still upset.

Overstimulated: Opposite to being bored, baby turns away from action. She might seems difficult to please. Take baby to another quieter room away from noise / action.

Tired: Baby might look a bit vacant, yawn or rub her eyes. Listen for ‘Owh’ sound in her cry.

Uncomfortable: Baby might squirm and make a Heh sound. Her nappy might be full or feeling hot or cold.

Wet or Dirty Nappy: similar to uncomfortable (check nappy it will feel full). Change nappy.

Hot: Feel the back of baby’s neck by putting two fingers down back of top. Baby should be warm but not sweaty. If baby is sweaty, take a layer off or move them to a cooler environment.

Cold: Feel the back of baby’s neck inside clothes. If baby is cold you need to put more clothes on her or put her in a warmer environment.

Teething: Baby might be drooling a lot and putting hands in mouth. You could give her something cold to chew on or use teething powder or teething gel.

Over-tired: Baby might seem inconsolable. Calm her by swaddling, let her suck on a pacifier, and rocking her while making a ‘shhhh’ sound to help her settle.

Do you have other tips/signs to look out for when baby cries? Do share.

PS: How To Start Introducing Solids To Baby? Find out here.

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