After the first 3-4 months, their crying drops way down and the reasons change, but some remain: crying for feedings, tired, can’t get back to sleep at night, etc., with meltdowns not coming until after six months. Still, crying can be a problem and irritating, so to stay on top of your game, you need to anticipate the new set of triggers for your baby to cry:

• Boredom: They are built to continually engage to build their brain, and when they want to and it’s not happening, a baby may start to whine and fuss (they can be very demanding due to their innate survival instinct). Think of solutions like a bouncy seat; it gently bounces with his movements and may have toys, music, and lights to occupy your baby’s developing mind.

• Overstimulation: Usually happens at night when you get home and they want to play, and so do you. Then he is “too worked up” to go to sleep and no one is happy. Go ahead and get your play time in, and then add a heavy duty calming hack like a stroller ride or a massage.

• Frustration. This is a good thing as your baby is trying to learn to do something and doesn’t want to give up. He is trying to figure out how to make his hands, arms, and feet do what he wants, among other things. A good one for you to deal with; if he is trying to get a toy out of his reach, moms typically hand it to him while dads help him figure out how to get it.

• TV and Tablets: Only 11% of pediatrician parents abide by the American Academy of Pediatrics zero tolerance on any screen time before age 2, and you probably won’t either. The research bottom line is don’t use a TV to babysit your kid.

Often the best way for you to handle a fussy baby is to get out of the house with him. An unlimited number of new experience to tantalize his brain, and lots of new possibilities for you to make this special daddy time special. Enjoy!