Skip to content

BabyCue

Home
Behavior & Comfort

Normal Crying & Soothing Techniques

Newborns cry 2-3 hours per day on average (some more, some less). Crying peaks around 6 weeks, then gradually decreases.

Crying is baby's only way to communicate needs: hunger, tired, wet diaper, too hot/cold, overstimulated, needs comfort, gas/discomfort.

The 5 S's (Dr. Karp): Swaddle, Side/stomach position (while holding), Shush, Swing, Suck. These trigger calming reflex.

What to Do

  • Check basic needs first: hungry, wet/dirty diaper, too hot/cold
  • Try the 5 S's: Swaddle snugly, hold on side/stomach, loud shushing, gentle swinging, offer pacifier
  • White noise machine or app can be very effective (womb was loud!)
  • Take baby for walk outside or car ride - change of scenery helps
  • Skin-to-skin contact - hold baby against your bare chest
  • If frustrated: Put baby in safe place (crib), take 5-10 minute break, breathe
  • NEVER shake baby - can cause permanent brain damage or death
  • Ask for help from partner, family, or friend when overwhelmed

More from Behavior & Comfort

View all
Behavior & Comfort

Cold Hands & Feet in Babies

It's completely normal for babies to have cold hands and feet, even when they're warm and comfortable. This happens because babies' circulatory systems are still developing - blood goes to vital organs (brain, heart, lungs, digestive system) first, leaving less for the extremities. Babies don't regulate temperature as efficiently as adults. Their hands and feet can feel cool even when their core body temperature is perfect. This is especially common in newborns and continues through the first year as circulation matures. The best way to check if baby is the right temperature is to feel the back of their neck or chest - these should be warm (not hot or sweaty, not cold).

Read more
Behavior & Comfort

Colic & Excessive Crying

Colic: inconsolable crying 3+ hours per day, 3+ days per week, for 3+ weeks (Rule of 3's). Usually starts around 2 weeks, peaks at 6 weeks, resolves by 3-4 months. Typically occurs same time each day (often evening). Baby pulls legs up, clenches fists, face turns red, passes gas. Otherwise healthy and feeding well. Cause unknown - theories include immature nervous system, gas, overstimulation. NOT parent's fault.

Read more
Behavior & Comfort

Early Tantrums & Frustration (12+ months)

Tantrums typically begin 12-18 months and peak around age 2-3. Early tantrums involve crying, screaming, arching back, throwing things, hitting, or going limp. Causes: frustration at limited language/abilities, tired, hungry, overstimulated, seeking independence, testing boundaries. This is NORMAL development - baby has big feelings but lacks skills to regulate them. Brain's emotional center develops before logical center.

Read more