Babies and crying (ICON)
This page explains why babies cry, what crying can mean, and simple ways to comfort your baby.
Be an ICON for your baby and cope with their crying
I: Infant crying is normal and it will stop
C: Comfort methods can help soothe the baby
O: It’s OK to walk away if you have checked the baby is safe and the crying is getting to you
N: Never ever shake or hurt a baby
A baby’s cry can be upsetting and frustrating. It is designed to get your attention and you may be worried that something is wrong with your baby.
Babies often cry more from around 2 weeks old and crying often peaks at 6 to 8 weeks.
All babies are different and some babies cry more than others but after about 8 weeks, babies start to cry less and less each week.
Supporting information
Babies cry to tell you they need something, they may be:
- hungry
- tired
- have a wet or dirty nappy
- feel unwell
- need comfort
Sometimes babies cry even when all their needs are met.
Trying to comfort your baby can sometimes help the crying stop.
You could try:
- talking calmly, humming or singing
- playing a gentle, repeating sound
- holding your baby close or skin‑to‑skin
- going for a short walk outside
- giving your baby a warm bath
These ideas may not always work straight away.
You may need to try more than one.
Some babies are hard to calm.
This does not mean you are a bad parent.
If the crying is getting to you:
- put your baby somewhere safe
- step away for a short time
Do something calming, such as:
- listening to music
- stretching or breathing slowly
- call a friend or family member for support
When you feel calmer, go back and check on your baby.
Taking care of yourself helps you take care of your baby.
Never:
- Shout at a baby
- Handle a baby roughly
- Shake a baby
Shaking a baby can cause serious harm, including:
- Brain injury
- Disability
- Death
Getting help and staying safe
- Cry-sis Helpline: Call 0800 448 0737, Lines open 7 days a week from 9am to 10pm.
- ICON offers simple, trusted advice on coping with your baby’s crying.
Who else you can talk to
You can also speak to:
- your GP
- midwife
- health visitor or 0 to 19 practitioner
- local Family Hubs or Children’s Centres
When to get medical help
If you are worried your baby may be unwell:
Contact your GP, or Call NHS 111 (or visit the 111 website) Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
In an emergency: Call 999
The Baby Check app from Lullaby Trust can help you check your baby’s symptoms and decide whether they need medical attention for babies under 6 months of age. The app guides you through simple checks and it also reminds you to trust your instincts and seek help if you are worried.
West Yorkshire Healthier Together: Visit this website for trusted NHS advice for babies, children and young people, created by local doctors and healthcare teams in West Yorkshire. It helps you understand common childhood illnesses, what to do when your child is unwell, and when to get medical help.
