Topic Overview

A diary for colic shows the baby's daily activities and the amount of time spent in each one. The diary should include:

• Crying and fussing periods. Who was present when the baby was crying? What comfort measures were used? Was the baby being held when the crying began?
• Sleeping periods. Was the baby sleeping alone or in the caregiver's arms?
• Awake times. Was the baby alone and happy or being held? Were bathing, changing, or other activities taking place?
• Feeding times. How much formula was taken? How long did the baby breast-feed? What position was the baby in during feeding? How was the baby burped? Did the baby spit up or vomit after a feeding? If you are breast-feeding, the health professional will want a record of your diet during this period of time.
• Stool pattern. What is the amount, color, consistency, and odor of the baby's stools?
• Number of wet diapers. What is the color, estimated amount (small, moderate, or large), and odor of the baby's urine?
• Weight. When during the day was the baby weighed? Did the baby have the same amount of clothing on each time he or she was weighed?