Crying in healthy infants usually rises from about two weeks, peaks around six to eight weeks and settles by three to four months, often clustering in the late afternoon and evening. After checking for illness, feeding problems and poor weight gain, explain this pattern clearly. Give permission to put the baby down safely in the cot and step away for a few minutes when frustration builds. Warn explicitly against shaking. Ask about the parents' sleep, mood and support at home.
- Examine the baby and check weight before reassuring.
- Describe the normal crying curve and its expected end.
- Tell parents it is safe to put the baby down and take a short break.
- Warn clearly that shaking a baby can cause serious brain injury.
Why it matters
Clear advice at this stage protects both the parents' mental health and the baby.
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