All young babies cry when they’re hungry, and it’s the first thing parents think of when their infant starts to fuss.

1. In hot weather babies also tend to become thirstier than normal.

2. Breastfed babies may need extra breast milk, while bottle-fed babies should be offered cooled water regularly.

3. The second port of call when your baby cries is usually a nappy check. Wet or dirty nappies can be uncomfortable against the skin and babies often cry to let you know they want to be changed.

4. A tired baby is a grumpy one until he or she falls asleep. An over-tired child may be bright and cheery one minute and tearful the next. The key is routine – if you know your baby is due for a nap, try putting her to bed regardless of whether she seems wide awake or not.

5. Crying caused by wind or colic is usually intense and you may recognise its sound as different to your baby’s normal cry. Some babies go red in the face and pull their legs up.

6. Summer heat can be uncomfortable for infants. On hot days, keep your baby cool with light, loose-fitting clothing.

7. Babies love to feel cosy and secure, even in warm weather. Keep clothing to a minimum and consider a light cotton or muslin sheet as a cover. Even in a room that seems warm, a draft can be unsettling.

8. Sometimes they just want a cuddle, a smile or to be picked up for a few minutes. A crying baby could be saying, “You’ve been too busy to play with me, it’s my turn now!” As baby gets older and more aware, it may be a message of pure frustration: “I can see that toy, but I just can’t grab it!”

9. Ever noticed how your baby really turns it on when you get home from a party or a long day with the rellies? It might just be too much of a good thing. Yes, babies adore attention, but they can easily become exhausted. It mightn’t seem like they’ve run a marathon, but lots of people holding and coo-ing over them can be tiring.

10. Sore gums are enough to make you want to scream – and that’s exactly how babies feel too. As the milk teeth begin to erupt, gums become red and swollen and many bubs become irritable, clingy and have trouble sleeping.

If you’re not sure why your baby is crying, but he or she appears to be in pain, it’s always best to see your doctor. Babies can’t tell you they feel ill or where it hurts, but a medically trained professional knows how to identify the symptoms. Baby pain relievers work wonders in cases of mild illness or a temperature, but if the problem persists more than a day or so, seek professional help.

{ 0 comments }