You're Not Doing Anything Wrong—Babies Cry a Lot
In those early weeks, it can feel like crying takes over everything.
You feed your baby. Change them. Hold them. Rock them. And they still cry. You wonder, Am I missing something?
Let me reassure you: if your newborn is growing and generally content in between, then yes—this is normal.
According to the Better Health Channel, newborn crying typically increases from 2 weeks of age, peaking around 6 to 8 weeks, and gradually easing by 3 to 4 months. This period is often called the “crying peak.”
Why the Crying Peak Happens
Not sure where to start? Discover your baby’s personalized plan.
Plan My Baby's Sleep (Free)Crying is your baby’s main form of communication. In the first 3 months, they cry to say:
- I’m hungry.
- I’m tired.
- I’m uncomfortable.
- I need to be close to you.
But sometimes, babies cry for no obvious reason—and that’s still developmentally normal. Their brain and nervous system are adjusting to life outside the womb, and some babies simply need more time to adapt.
What You Can Do
During this phase, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. But there are a few grounding truths to carry with you:
- You’re not spoiling your baby by responding to their cries.
- You can’t always “fix” the crying—but your calm presence matters.
- You’re not alone—this is a shared experience for most new parents.
Gentle Tips for Soothing and Settling
- Use a “feed, play, sleep” routine to introduce rhythm
- Try holding, rocking, or baby-wearing during intense crying bouts
- Create a calm environment—dim lights, white noise, low stimulation
- Try placing baby in their crib tired but awake to encourage self-settling
- Check for tired signs like yawning, staring, or jerky movements to catch the optimal window for sleep
Don’t Forget: Your Needs Matter Too
When crying feels endless, it’s okay to step away for a moment. Place your baby in a safe space and take a few deep breaths. Call a support person. Ask for help.
Taking care of yourself isn’t optional—it’s essential.
You might:
- Set a timer and go for a 10-minute walk outside
- Text a friend just to say “Today is hard”
- Grab a quick nap during baby’s sleep
The crying will pass. But you matter the whole way through.
When to Seek Extra Help
If your baby’s crying feels unmanageable or something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts.
Reach out to a maternal and child health nurse or your pediatrician. That’s not failure—it’s parenting from a place of care.
Final Thought
The crying peak is hard—but it’s also temporary. You are showing up with love, and that is exactly what your baby needs most.
