All babies cry, some more than others. Crying is a baby’s language. When babies cry, they may be lonely, scared, tired or they may cry for reasons we can’t figure out. Download the Crying Plan, fill it out, and give it to anyone who cares for your child.
If your baby starts to cry, here’s what you can do: Check your baby’s basic needs
- Is it time to eat?
- Does he/she need to burp after eating?
- Is it time for a diaper change?
- Are there any signs your baby is sick? (fever, vomiting) Seek medical care if you have any concerns about your baby’s health.
For times when you’re not there, choose your baby’s caregivers wisely.
Before leaving your baby with anyone, ask yourself these questions:
- Does this person want to watch my baby?
- Have I had a chance to watch this person with my baby before I leave?
- Is this person good with babies?
- Has this person been a good caregiver to other babies?
- Will by baby be in a safe place with this person?
- Have I gone over my CRYING PLAN with this person?
What happens when you shake a baby?
Sometimes, people get so frustrated they will shake a crying baby.
It is important to understand, NO ONE PLANS TO DO IT; it just happens. But shaking a baby, even for a second, can cause serious injury or even death. Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma is a serious type of brain injury that can occur when an infant of toddler is violently shaken, usually in response to crying that will not stop. Babies’ neck muscles aren’t strong and don’t provide much support for their large heads. Visit www.preventshakenbaby.org for more information.
Shaking a baby - or any other type of violent behavior - is a serious form of child abuse with serious consequences for the adult, too.
For information about crying babies call: IdahoCareline 2-1-1 or visit www.211.idaho.gov
