Cracking The Crying Code

Sure, crying is a baby’s only form of communication – but that doesn’t mean you will always know exactly what your baby boy is trying to say. Not to worry. We will help you figure out what those whimpers and wails really mean:

“I am hungry.” A short and low pitched cry that rises and falls rhythmically and has a pleading quality to it usually means that baby’s in the market for s meal. The hunger cry is often preceded by lip smacking, rooting, or finger sucking. Catch on to the clues, and you can often avoid the tears.

‘I am in pain.” This cry begins suddenly and is loud , panicked, and long ( with each wail lasting a few seconds), leaving the baby breathless. It is followed by a long pause ( that’s baby catching his or her breath) and then repeated, long, high-pitched shrieks.

“I am bored. ” This cry starts out as coos, then turns into fussing (when the attention is not forthcoming) , then builds to burst of indignant crying ( “Why are you ignoring me?” ) alternating with whimpers. the boredom cry stops as soon as the baby is picked up.

“I am overtired or uncomfortable.”A whiny, nasal, continuous cry that builds in intensity is usually baby’s signal that he or she has had enough ( as in “Nap, please!”, “Diaper change, now!” or “I have had it with this infant seat!” ).

“I am sick.” This cry is often weak and nasal sounding with a low pitch, as though baby doesn’t have the energy to pump up the volume. it is often accompanied by other signs of illness and changes in the baby’s behavior. There is no sadder cry than the “sick” cry, nor one that tugs harder at parental heartstrings.