Why Do Older Babies Cry?

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Article Title:

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Why Do Older Babies Cry?

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From the age of about three months, babies become more aware

of their surroundings and start to be much more communicative.

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Distribution Date and Time: Fri Sep 23 01:34:44 EDT 2005

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Why Do Older Babies Cry?

Copyright © 2005

Total Kids UK

http://www.total-kids.co.uk

From the age of about three months, babies become more aware of

their surroundings and start to be much more communicative. By

now you are likely to be able to recognise your baby's

distinctive cries, for instance when (s)he is hungry, tired, or

needs changing. However, now your baby will cry from boredom,

anxiety, frustration and teething. Whilst identifying the cause

of your baby's crying will again require a process of trial and

error, the following may be of help;

<STRONG>Boredom</STRONG>

Make sure that your baby has a selection of interesting toys

within reach. Spend time with your baby just talking or playing

or reading from a storybook. Singing and music can also be fun.

<STRONG>Anxiety</STRONG>

Your baby may cry if (s)he fears separation from you or in the

presence of strangers or if (s)he is in a strange place. Always

be supportive and never make fun of your child's fears. Reassure

your baby with soothing words in a gentle tone of voice and

cuddle him or her. When you are separated from your baby reassure

him or her that you will come back soon. Whenever possible, try

to make frequent appearances to reassure your baby that you are

nearby.

If you have to be away from him or her for longer periods (for

example with a child carer when you return to work) then take

time to make sure that your baby is used to the new environment

and the new carer. If possible, try to prepare your baby for your

being apart by starting with short periods at a time and

gradually making them longer. Make sure that you and the carer

are patient with your baby's anxiety and don't show any

frustration or impatience. If (s)he has a comfort object, such as

a toy or blanket, make sure that (s)he has it when you leave.

When you return give your baby extra cuddles and plenty of

soothing talk.

<STRONG>Frustration</STRONG>

Your baby will cry when they want to do things that they are not

yet able to or when they do not get their own way.

Make your home as childproof as possible to allow your baby to

explore in safety without you having to fuss around with moving

things out of the way.

Try and have a favorite or new toy or game to hand to distract

your baby when (s)he becomes frustrated. Offer help when (s)he

needs it but don't completely take over - allow your baby to feel

a sense of achievement. If your baby simply wants his or her own

way it is important to decide for yourself whether the issue is

an important one.

A good rule of thumb is only to assert your own will over those

things that are really important and not simply because you

prefer things a certain way. When you do decide to assert your

will then don't change your mind or this will confuse your baby

and make him or her less likely to do as you wish next time.

Provided the baby is safe then tantrums are best ignored when

possible.

Don't shout at your baby and don't punish him or her afterwards.

Explain in a reasoned way why (s)he cannot do whatever it is they

want to do. Although (s)he will not understand what you say at

first, your baby will understand your tone of voice and will

learn what you mean.

<STRONG>Teething</STRONG>

When the teeth are coming through the gums become swollen and

red. Your baby may also tug on their ear or even develop cold

symptoms whilst teething. Your baby may dribble a lot, be

irritable, clingy and have trouble sleeping. Medical treatment is

not usually necessary. Try giving him or her something to chew on

such as a cold carrot or a chilled (not frozen) teething toy. You

can also try rubbing your baby's gums with your finger or

applying a small amount teething gel.

<STRONG>Illness or Infection</STRONG>

Crying accompanying symptoms such as: fever, loss of appetite,

vomiting, skin rash, light-phobia, is more likely to be the

result of an infection. If your baby has these symptoms or if you

think your baby is unwell contact your GP or health visitor as

symptoms can progress quickly with small babies.

More information is readily available in books such as <A

href= " http://www.total-kids.com/Amazon_Pages/_what+to+do+when+your+child+gets+si\

ck_0970124503_z.asp " target= " _blank " >What

To Do When Your Child Gets Sick</A>, that can be an invaluable

resource for new parents.

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is an experienced mother, and editor of

http://www.total-kids.co.uk, a site bursting with tips,

resources, toys, and <a href= " http://www.total-kids.co.uk "

target= " _blank " >articles for parents</a>

and childcare professionals.