Babies cry, you can cope!

Helping parents stay calm when babies cry.

Crying is a normal part of every baby’s development. For many parents, it can feel overwhelming – especially when combined with the pressures of everyday life. Understanding why babies cry, being aware of practical coping strategies, as well as the importance of your own mental health can all help when managing a crying baby.

This year’s theme is about mental health and staying calm. And that applies to everyone – mums, dads, and carers. For men in particular, talking about stress and finding ways to calm down before handling a crying baby can be a big challenge. ICON encourages both men and women to reach out for support, talk to someone they trust, and take breaks when needed.

Babies start to cry more frequently at about two weeks of age. Crying may get more frequent and last longer during the first few weeks, hitting a peak at about six to eight weeks, sometimes a little later.

Every baby is different bit after about two or three months, babies start to cry less and less each week.

Coping tips that can help:

• Create a calm space – turn off screens, lower the lights, and reduce noise. This can help both you and your baby feel more settled.
• Plan ahead. In the heat of the moment, being told to “calm down” isn’t always helpful. Having a Crying Plan helps you think in advance about what works for you – whether that’s stepping outside for a breath of fresh air, calling a friend, or listening to music. Having a plan makes it easier to cope when the crying feels too much. Just remember – never shake your baby.

For more information on coping with a crying baby;

About – ICON Cope