Healthy Babies Healthy Children
A home-based visiting program for Durham families
Healthy Babies Healthy Children (HBHC) is a home-based visiting program for families. Families that qualify are paired with a public health nurse and family visitor. You pick goals you would like to focus on during the program and create a plan together. Anyone can self-refer for our services. For eligible families, this may include a referral to our home visiting program.
All babies cry, but some babies cry more than others. A baby's cry can make parents feel frustrated, tired and overwhelmed. It is important to know why your baby is crying and how can you comfort them.
Never shake a baby
No matter how upset or scared you feel, never shake your baby.You can easily hurt your baby's brain from shaking it, even for just a few seconds. Shaken Baby Syndrome can lead to blindness, brain damage or death.
If you cannot manage your baby's crying, put your baby safely and calmly in the crib. It's okay to leave your baby in a safe space for a few minutes until you feel calm. Try to take some deep breaths. If you are having trouble calming down, call a family member or friend for help.
Why is my baby crying?
Babies can't talk. Crying is their only way to tell us they need something.
Babies may cry because they:
- Are hungry.
- Are tired.
- Are too hot or cold.
- Need a diaper change.
- Want you to hold and comfort them.
- Feel sick.
When your baby is about two weeks old, crying might happen more often or for longer periods. It might continue into the second month. This should decrease when your baby is four or five months old.
Periods of crying usually happen in the late afternoon or evening.
Colic
Within the first three months, some babies go through periods of excessive crying without a cause. This is often called "colic."
If you are concerned about colic, talk to your health care provider.
Soothing your baby
Always respond to your baby's cries. Over time, it will become easier to figure out what different cries mean.
Tips for soothing your baby by meeting your baby's needs first:
- Feed your baby.
- Check your baby's diaper.
- Comfort your baby.
- Put your baby down for a nap.
If you have met all your baby's basic needs, try these methods:
- Rock your baby gently.
- Burp your baby.
- Play soft music.
- Snuggle your baby close to you, skin to skin.
- Take your baby for a walk.
- Give your baby a warm bath.
- Ask for help from your partner, a family member or friend.
For more information, see Crying Baby: Handle with care.
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