Infant crying and how to cope (ICON)

ICON

ICON stands for:

I - Infant crying is normal – and it will stop! Babies start to cry more frequently from around 2 weeks of age. The crying may get more frequent and last longer. After about 8 weeks of age babies start to cry less each week.

C - Comforting methods can help - Think about are they: hungry? tired? in need of a nappy change? Try simple calming techniques such as singing to the baby or going for a walk.

O - It’s OK to walk away – if you have checked the baby is safe and the crying is getting to you. After a few minutes when you are feeling calm, go back and check on the baby.

N - Never, ever shake a baby or hurt a baby. Shaking can cause lasting brain damage or death. If you are worried that your baby is unwell contact your GP or call NHS 111.

Staff from Rotherham Council’s Early Help and Social Care teams, who work with children and families across the borough, will provide advice to new mums and dads about what they can do to comfort a crying baby and how to cope with the stress it causes.

Support is available from your GP, midwife or through NHS 111 for anyone who is struggling.

Parents and carers, please feel free to share, download and use the content on this page.

Further ICON information

Find out more about comfort techniques

View a briefing: Babies Cry - You Can Cope

Useful Contact Numbers

It's okay to ask for help and support if you need it! If you feel like you can't copy with your baby's crying, speak to:

friends and family
your Health Visitor
your midwife
your GP

You can also get help from the following:

CRY-SIS National Help line - 08451 228 669 (Lines open 7 days a week 9.00-22.00)
NSPCC - Tel: 0808 800 5000 or View the NSPCC website
ICON - national campaign website

Remember -if you are concerned that your baby may be unwell, contact your CP or NHS 111 (111.nhs.uk or call 111 – the service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

In an emergency ring 999.

Rotherham Safeguarding Children Partnership