The Crying Peak Guide

You’re Not Doing Anything Wrong—Babies Cry a Lot

In those early weeks, it can feel like crying takes over everything.

You feed your baby. Change them. Hold them. Rock them.
And they still cry. You wonder, Am I missing something?

Let me reassure you: if your newborn is growing and generally content in between, then yes—this is normal.

According to the Better Health Channel, newborn crying typically increases from 2 weeks of age, peaking around 6 to 8 weeks, and gradually easing by 3 to 4 months. This period is often called the “crying peak.”

Why the Crying Peak Happens

Crying is your baby’s main form of communication. In the first 3 months, they cry to say:

• I’m hungry.

• I’m tired.

• I’m uncomfortable.

• I need to be close to you.

But sometimes, babies cry for no obvious reason—and that’s still developmentally normal.
Their nervous system is adjusting to life outside the womb. Some babies simply need more time to adapt.

What You Can Do

During this phase, there’s no one-size-fits-all fix. But here are a few grounding truths to carry with you:

• You’re not spoiling your baby by responding to their cries.

• You can’t always “fix” the crying—but your calm presence matters.

• You’re not alone—this is a shared experience for most new parents.

Gentle Tips for Soothing and Settling

🍼 Use a simple “feed, play, sleep” routine to introduce rhythm
🤱 Hold, rock, or baby-wear during intense crying bouts
🕯️ Dim the lights, reduce stimulation, and use soft white noise
😴 Try placing baby in their crib tired but awake to encourage self-settling
👀 Watch for tired cues like yawning, zoning out, or jerky movements

Don’t Forget: Your Needs Matter Too

When crying feels endless, it’s okay to step away for a moment.
Place your baby in a safe space and take a few deep breaths. Call someone. Ask for help.

Taking care of yourself isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Try:

• A 10-minute walk outdoors

• Texting a friend: “Today is hard.”

• Grabbing a nap when your baby sleeps

The crying will pass. But you matter the whole way through.

When to Seek Extra Help

If your baby’s crying feels unmanageable, or something just seems off—trust your instincts.

Reach out to a maternal and child health nurse or your pediatrician.
That’s not failure—it’s parenting with care.

Final Thoughts

The crying peak is hard—but it’s also temporary.
You’re showing up with love, and that is exactly what your baby needs most.

You’ve got this. And we’re right here with you.

💤 Want support through every stage?

Explore the Sleepy Little One course—a gentle, evidence-backed system to help your baby sleep better and help you feel more like yourself again.