Why Cry?

Crying is how babies communicate that something may be wrong. Temper tantrums are common in both boys & girls from ages 1-3. Although frustrating, they are considered a part of normal development.

Common reasons can include:
- hungry;
- tired;
- bored (yes, even babies); 
- overstimulated;
- uncomfortable (wet, too hot/cold, clothing issue, stuck/pinched, sick, etc.);
- frustrated; etc.

Caregivers often learn subtle distinctions that help them determine the cry or tantrum's cause.

For babies, addressing the issue is the quickest way to stop the crying. If you can't find any obvious causes, try consoling your baby. If that isn't working either, sometimes you just have to let the baby "cry it out" in a safe place. Check out more info at:
- American Academy of Pediatric's Responding to Your Baby's Cries
- Parents.com's Crying Baby ("If Babies Could Text" is hilarious!)
- Yahoo Tech's Why is Your Baby Crying? There's an App For That

There are multiple ways to help prevent or de-escalate toddler tantrums. Learn more at KidsHealth's Temper Tantrums.

Never shake a baby or child to get them to stop crying! This can cause life threatening injuries or death. If you get frustrated, take a break or ask a friend/family member for health. Don't take the crying personally. General info is available through the American Academy of Pediatric's Abusive Head Trauma: How to Protect Your Baby. If you need personalized help or advice, contact your child's healthcare provider.