In plain words
The Period of PURPLE Crying is a teaching program for parents and caregivers. It explains that crying increases in the first months, peaks around six weeks, and is normal even when nothing seems wrong. The word PURPLE is a memory aid for the six features of this crying. Crying is unexpected, it resists soothing, the face can look like pain, it lasts long, and it often comes in the evening. The program teaches that a baby's crying is not your fault. It also teaches that it is safe to put the baby down and step away when you feel overwhelmed. A nurse or provider may share the materials at a visit or in the hospital.
The deeper version
The Period of PURPLE Crying program, developed by Barr and colleagues, describes the normal developmental curve of infant crying, with a peak near 6 weeks, and teaches caregivers to expect and cope with unsoothable crying. A randomized trial (Barr et al., Canadian Medical Association Journal, 2009) found that the materials improved parents' knowledge and increased reported sharing of information with . Population-based implementation programs have shown a mixed effect on rates of , and the program's main contribution is education rather than a demonstrated reduction in harm. Its framing of normal crying is widely used in pediatric .
Where it comes up
- Crying, colic, and the witching hourBaby Basics
- Soothing a newbornBaby Basics
- Days and nights mixed upBaby Basics
- Sharing nights: shifts and systemsSupport, Home, and Village
- Postpartum ragePostpartum: Mind
What mothers here say about Period of PURPLE Crying
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Sources
- National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome — Period of PURPLE Crying program materials
- Barr RG et al. — Do educational materials change knowledge and behaviour about crying and shaken baby syndrome? A randomized controlled trial. Canadian Medical Association Journal (2009)