Ear infections are one of the most common illnesses seen in a pediatrician’s office.
The Children’s Wisconsin Center for Child Development focuses on integrated health services for children with developmental diagnoses.
As a new parent, it's natural to feel excitement, joy and perhaps a touch of anxiety. One common challenge parents face is decoding their baby's cries. Understanding what is normal and what might require attention can help you navigate the early days of parenthood with confidence.
Sometimes, the source of a baby’s crying can be figured out: the baby is hungry, wet or tired. But other times, it’s less obvious why babies cry. There might be a certain time of day they cry the most, and it might be difficult — or impossible — to soothe them. The good news is this is a normal phenomenon that research has discovered in babies worldwide.
It can be heart-wrenching for parents when their babies cry relentlessly. But knowing that all babies go through this stage can ease parents’ minds. Generally, babies follow this timeline:
There are a number of steps to take to troubleshoot newborn crying.
First, it’s important to rule out common reasons a baby is crying.
Then, try these soothing techniques:
A baby’s crying can make parents feel helpless, frustrated or even angry. When you are feeling this way and feel you can’t tolerate the crying anymore, take the following steps:
Remember: As a parent at any stage, it’s important to prioritize self-care so you can take better care of others. Rest, proper nutrition and even exercise could put you in a better headspace to cope with trying parental situations.
As part of our mission to empower Wisconsin’s kids and their families to be the healthiest they can be, we share the program Period of PURPLE Crying with parents and through our community work with the goal of preventing abusive head trauma or Shaken Baby Syndrome.
This informative parental resource explains the characteristics of developmental crying and gives additional tips and ideas. It has helped many parents understand that although their baby may cry a lot during a certain time, there is nothing wrong with their baby or with them as parents.
More than three hours of crying a day may be a cause for concern, especially if this is different or unusual for your child. In addition, if you are concerned about your baby’s crying, or if crying is accompanied by other symptoms, call your pediatrician.
Your pediatrician can serve as a champion for you and your family. For this reason, it’s important to share if and when things change. Please voice your concerns to our team.
Ear infections are one of the most common illnesses seen in a pediatrician’s office.
Helping parents understand what feelings and moods are normal and what might need a little extra attention.
Becoming a mom changes you forever — and that includes your mental and emotional state of being.
As a parent, chances are you’ve seen it or have even worn it on your shirt: spit-up.
The transition from breast milk and formula to solid foods is a major milestone for babies.
Dealing with uncomfortable situations helps kids develop and grow.
Tongue-tie surgeries are becoming very common — but are they always necessary?