From the age of about three months, babies become more aware of 
their surroundings and start to be much more communicative. By 
now you are likely to be able to recognise your baby's 
distinctive cries, for instance when (s)he is hungry, tired, or 
needs changing. However, now your baby will cry from boredom, 
anxiety, frustration and teething. Whilst identifying the cause 
of your baby's crying will again require a process of trial and 
error, the following may be of help;


Boredom

Make sure that your baby has a selection of interesting toys 
within reach. Spend time with your baby just talking or playing 
or reading from a storybook. Singing and music can also be fun.


Anxiety

Your baby may cry if (s)he fears separation from you or in the 
presence of strangers or if (s)he is in a strange place. Always 
be supportive and never make fun of your child's fears. Reassure 
your baby with soothing words in a gentle tone of voice and 
cuddle him or her. When you are separated from your baby reassure 
him or her that you will come back soon. Whenever possible, try 
to make frequent appearances to reassure your baby that you are 
nearby.

If you have to be away from him or her for longer periods (for 
example with a child carer when you return to work) then take 
time to make sure that your baby is used to the new environment 
and the new carer. If possible, try to prepare your baby for your 
being apart by starting with short periods at a time and 
gradually making them longer. Make sure that you and the carer 
are patient with your baby's anxiety and don't show any 
frustration or impatience. If (s)he has a comfort object, such as 
a toy or blanket, make sure that (s)he has it when you leave.

When you return give your baby extra cuddles and plenty of 
soothing talk.


Frustration

Your baby will cry when they want to do things that they are not 
yet able to or when they do not get their own way.

Make your home as childproof as possible to allow your baby to 
explore in safety without you having to fuss around with moving 
things out of the way.

Try and have a favorite or new toy or game to hand to distract 
your baby when (s)he becomes frustrated. Offer help when (s)he 
needs it but don't completely take over - allow your baby to feel 
a sense of achievement. If your baby simply wants his or her own 
way it is important to decide for yourself whether the issue is 
an important one.

A good rule of thumb is only to assert your own will over those 
things that are really important and not simply because you 
prefer things a certain way. When you do decide to assert your 
will then don't change your mind or this will confuse your baby 
and make him or her less likely to do as you wish next time. 
Provided the baby is safe then tantrums are best ignored when 
possible.

Don't shout at your baby and don't punish him or her afterwards. 
Explain in a reasoned way why (s)he cannot do whatever it is they 
want to do. Although (s)he will not understand what you say at 
first, your baby will understand your tone of voice and will 
learn what you mean.


Teething

When the teeth are coming through the gums become swollen and 
red. Your baby may also tug on their ear or even develop cold 
symptoms whilst teething. Your baby may dribble a lot, be 
irritable, clingy and have trouble sleeping. Medical treatment is 
not usually necessary. Try giving him or her something to chew on 
such as a cold carrot or a chilled (not frozen) teething toy. You 
can also try rubbing your baby's gums with your finger or 
applying a small amount teething gel.


Illness or Infection

Crying accompanying symptoms such as: fever, loss of appetite, 
vomiting, skin rash, light-phobia, is more likely to be the 
result of an infection. If your baby has these symptoms or if you 
think your baby is unwell contact your GP or health visitor as 
symptoms can progress quickly with small babies.

More information is readily available in books such as What 
To Do When Your Child Gets Sick, that can be an invaluable 
resource for new parents. 

Mary is an experienced mother, and editor of 
http://www.total-kids.co.uk, a site bursting with tips, 
resources, toys, and articles for parents 
and childcare professionals.