A certain amount of crying in the first few months is normal. Learning to handle crying can be tense, frustrating, and upsetting for parents. However, learning to soothe them is eventually satisfying and builds attachment between parent and child.
"Developmental Crying" is the term for normal crying in the first few months, as it is age related. The acronym "PURPLE" can be used to remember this normal crying.
Soothing: because babies change moods slowly, and react to their caregiver's emotions such as anxiety, it's important for parents to take some deep breaths and give each "S" several minutes to have an effect. Here are some tips for soothing crying, using the "5 S's".
Note that crying tends to increase beginning at age 2 weeks (in a full-term baby) right when the partner of the mother returns to work, or the relatives leave. It's always ok to ask your pediatrician's opinion if your baby's crying is normal. If after a full examination your pediatrician reassures you that your baby's crying is normal, it is a good idea to accept some support. If you have friends who have asked "How can I help?" encourage them to come over for an hour in the evening (peak crying time) to hold the baby so you can have a little time away. If you feel like you just can't stand the crying any more, please call our office for additional support.
Excerpted from Pediatric News November 2018, page 10, written by Barbara Howard, MD