Every parent knows the first year with a baby is both challenging and exciting. Your baby cries all the time and you have no idea what any of this means.
Luckily, some experts have decoded this unique baby language, and I'm here to share the clues you'll need to figure out what your little bundle of joy is trying to say. Let's start with the way your baby cries during the first 4 months of life. Crying is the main way babies express their needs. Here are seven types of cries to listen for and what they mean.
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Crying Baby |
Luckily, some experts have decoded this unique baby language, and I'm here to share the clues you'll need to figure out what your little bundle of joy is trying to say. Let's start with the way your baby cries during the first 4 months of life. Crying is the main way babies express their needs. Here are seven types of cries to listen for and what they mean.
01 A calling cry
Ever heard your baby cry for about five to six seconds, and then pause for the next 20 seconds. They're not watching a commercial. That's a 'calling cry'. This means that your baby has been alone for a while and now desperately need your attention. If you don't respond right away, you'll hear this fascinating cycle of crying a couple more times. So, pick your baby up and give them all the loving they need.
02 A hunger cry
This type of cry is very similar to the calling cry, with one little catch. If you don't get in there right away, the crime becomes hysterical. Quickly your baby may also start rotating their head and making smacking sounds with their mouths. This is not the thing from The Exorcist movie. This is just a clear sign that it's time to feed.
03 A pain cry
If you hear a pain cry once, you'll never confuse it with any of the others. This crying is flat and constant. But, small hysterical outbursts mean the pain is increasing and you should call the doctor as soon as possible. This type of crying is also very loud unless your baby isn't strong enough to make loud noises.
04 A physiological cry
Babies deal with all kinds of bodily functions like us. From having gas, to peeing and pooping. This can cause them more discomfort than you think. Thankfully, babies usually let you know right away by whining and squeaking as they cry.
05 A sleep cry
Sleep is another problem for babies. Sometimes, they just can't. I can relate that old saying that goes, I slept like a baby. It really means I slept and then I woke up every two hours and cried. In this case, their crying sounds like an offended and smooth whining, followed by loads of yawning. Sleepy babies also tend to rub their eyes and ears. So, you can look out for these red flags as well.
06 A discomfort cry
This crying sounds very irritated and often comes together with fidgeting. Your baby can also flail their arms and legs and arch their backs. This usually means time to check their diaper or change their clothes. They may be either too hot or too cold.
07 A bored cry
This one is extremely common. Your baby cries. You try doing everything you can. But, still can't figure out what's wrong. Your baby is simply frustrated or bored. Take them for a walk outside or around the house. A simple environment change can stop the crying quickly.
Don't forget to share this cheat sheet among your mom friends !
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