If you’ve ever held a crying baby and felt completely overwhelmed, you’re not alone — and you’re not doing anything wrong.
Babies cry. It’s how they communicate hunger, exhaustion, discomfort, or simply the need to be held. But sometimes, they cry for what feels like no reason at all — and it can be difficult for even the most patient, loving parents.
Taking a moment to learn how to respond to infant crying can make a powerful difference in keeping babies safe. One simple way to do that is by understanding The Period of PURPLE Crying® (PURPLE).
What is the PURPLE crying period?
The Period of PURPLE Crying® was created by the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome and is supported here in the Sunshine State through Prevent Child Abuse Florida. It helps parents and caregivers understand that increased crying in early infancy is completely normal (and temporary).
The word “period” is key. This phase typically begins around 2 weeks of age and can last until about 4 to 5 months. It has a beginning, and — just as importantly — it has an end. Knowing that can make all the difference on those long days (and even longer nights).
PURPLE stands for:
- Peak of crying: Your baby may cry more each week — the most in month 2, then less in months 3–5.
- Unexpected: Crying can come and go, and you may not know why.
- Resists soothing: Your baby may not stop crying no matter what you try.
- Pain-like face: A crying baby may look like they are in pain even when they are not.
- Long-lasting: Crying can last as much as five hours a day, or more.
- Evening: Your baby may cry more in the late afternoon and evening.
The word period reminds parents that the crying has a beginning and an end — it is temporary.
‘Shaken baby syndrome’ is completely preventable
One of the biggest goals of the PURPLE program is to help prevent abusive head trauma (AHT), also known as “shaken baby syndrome.”
When the crying feels constant and nothing seems to help, frustration can build quickly. But babies — especially under age 1 — are incredibly vulnerable due to their weak neck muscles, and shaking can cause serious, lasting harm.
PURPLE encourages parents to pause when they feel overwhelmed, place their baby in a safe space, such as their crib, and step away for a few minutes to regroup. AHT is entirely preventable, and taking a much-needed break can protect both you and your baby.
The most important reminder: This crying phase is temporary, and you’re not alone in it.
Additional resources for parents and caregivers
Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, but support is all around us here in Jacksonville. THE PLAYERS Center for Child Health at Wolfson Children’s Hospital offers helpful parenting tips for every stage, and Prevent Child Abuse Florida provides resources designed to support families and caregivers.
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