Baby Crying During the First Months: What to Expect and What to Do

All babies cry. Before new skills start to develop, crying is how babies communicate. Your newborn can’t talk yet, so crying is their way of telling you they need something. When your baby cries, they may be hungry, tired, uncomfortable or just want to be held. It’s important to always respond to your baby to help meet their needs. 

Fussy or Crying Baby Checklist 

When your baby starts to get fussy or begins to cry, go through this checklist to uncover what need they might be communicating. 

What to Expect in the First Months 

Many parents are surprised to learn that crying often increases after the first couple of weeks. Around two weeks of age, babies may begin to cry more often. This is normal. Crying usually increases until about two months of age. This time is often called the peak of crying. During this stage, many babies cry for an hour or two each day, but some may cry for three or more.  

You may notice:  

• Your baby starts crying without any clear reason. You may have checked everything, and it seems their needs are met, yet the crying continues. Your baby can stop crying just as suddenly, with no obvious cause. Unpredictable crying is typical in the first few months.  
• While crying, your baby looks like they’re in pain, even when they aren’t. They may turn red, stiffen their body or pull their legs up. Even though it may look scary, this kind of crying is often a normal part of development. 
• Your baby cries more intensely in the evenings. It’s a common pattern but can feel especially hard because everyone is worn out from the day.  

After the peak of crying happens at around two months, crying will slowly decrease. By the time your baby is four months old, they will probably cry much less. Around this age, babies have developed new skills and ways of communicating their needs.

Taking Care of Yourself 

Caring for a crying baby can feel overwhelming. It’s normal to feel upset or frustrated, and at times you may feel like you’re losing your temper. It’s important to give yourself a break. Breathe deeply and remind yourself that it’s expected for a parent to feel upset by their baby’s crying. It’s not a sign that something is wrong with you. It can help to step away from the baby for a little while. Put your baby in a safe place, like a crib or bassinet, on their back. Then go into another room until you feel calm. This will not harm your baby; they are safe.  

It’s also a good idea to have trusted family members or friends who you can reach out to for help. Taking turns can make a big difference. 

Never Shake, Hit or Throw a Baby 

Make sure everyone who cares for your baby knows that no matter how stressed they feel, they must never shake, hit or throw your baby. These actions can cause blindness, serious brain injury or even death. This is called abusive head trauma (previously shaken baby syndrome). If someone ever feels overwhelmed by baby crying, they should step away, take a break and get help if needed.  

You Are Not Alone – Resources for Support 

Your baby’s crying can be hard, but it will get better with time. Remember, you are not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, calling a helpline could provide the support you need.  

These helplines provide free, confidential assistance and are for you to use when you need support, not just in emergencies. 

National Parent Helpline (Anonymous)- M-F 8A-5P- Call 855-4APARENT (855-427-2736)  

Texas Parent Helpline – 24/7 – Call or text 833-680-0611 

Many parents go through a stage of intense emotions during the peak months of crying. With time, patience and support, this phase will pass. If you are ever worried about your baby’s crying, talk to your baby’s doctor for guidance and reassurance.