Crying and coping with crying

What happens in the first few years of a child’s life can shape their whole life.

Did you know that crying in babies is normal and comforting methods can help?

It’s OK to walk away, never ever shake a baby.

Every baby is different, but around 2 weeks of age babies start to cry more frequently, and the crying may last longer, hitting a peak at about 6 to 8 weeks of age. After about 8 weeks of age babies start to cry less and less each week.

Where to go for further information

It's hard for parents or carers to cope with a crying baby. Here are some useful tips and links to help parents or carers to get through this time, feel more in control and safe and understand crying:

• ICON babies cry you can cope, advice and support
• Institute of Health Visiting coping with a crying baby

Advice and support is available through your Health Visitor all you need to do is ask, telephone: 01904555475

There is also support for parents and carers mental health:

• Your GP service is available for you to visit and talk to on the phone. Book appointments online using their surgery website or call them
• IAPT Home - York and Selby Talking Therapies

If someone is having a mental health crisis and are in immediate danger to themselves or others you should also telephone: 999.