Normal Development:

Your baby will use crying to communicate all needs, hunger, pain, wet, cold, and fear. He will listen to what you say and begin to make sounds, like cooing, by around 8 weeks. He may be frightened by loud noises (1 month.) Can identify their caregiver’s voice from a stranger’s (beginning at birth!) Typically your baby will cry between 1 and 3 hours a day (on average). If your baby cries for more than 3 hours, ask your doctor about colic.

What You Can Do:

Respond to your baby’s crying so that he will learn that you’re always there for him. Use your baby’s name, sing and use parentese (simple language, with lots of expression in your face, and sing-song voice) when you speak to your baby. Get close as you speak so your baby can see your lips. Read to your baby—they like hearing you talk.

Our Advice:

Give your baby enough downtime and rest. Respond to all your baby’s cries. You will not make your baby spoiled. You will make him feel safe. Remember that all babies grow and develop at their own speed and try not to compare your baby (or yourself) to others.

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