Crying in Normally Developing Infants

Your baby is crying. And crying. You’ve fed, burped, changed and rocked your little one and, yet, that crying persists.

Researchers believe that in the first few months of life, crying is a signal for attention. And while a newborn’s cries may vary in intensity, the cause isn’t always clear. But studies suggests that inconsolable crying is a normal part of healthy infant development—and baby and parent interaction.

Think of it this way: Your baby’s cry attracts your attention and promotes interaction as you try to soothe your baby. It also keeps you close to your baby. The result is that you become attuned to and learn more about your infant’s needs.

As your baby grows, the crying gets more complex. By 5 months or so, crying is coordinated, associated with a gaze or arm and foot movement, and provides clearer cues to its meaning. Your ability to decipher and respond to these cues may be important to your baby’s well-being for years to come. 

See also ...

•  Soothing a crying baby

•  The period of “PURPLE” crying

•  Coping with infant crying

Disclaimer: This page is not intended to provide medical advice about your child. Always seek the advice of a physician, qualified healthcare provider or child-development specialist with any questions you have about your child's health, medical condition or development. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you read here.