Independence Is Starting
As infants get older, they:
- Begin to roll over.
- Reach for toys, spoons, and other objects.
- Want to sit up.
This is the beginning of independence, but babies do not know what might put them in danger. Keeping your baby in a safe place, such as in a crib or in a playpen, will prevent falls, burns, poisoning, choking, and other injuries. Childproofing your home can also help keep your baby safe.
Some Common Problems
Most infants will go through the following difficulties, which can be very frustrating for parents, but they will soon outgrow them.
- Colic This is not caused by anything you have done. This usually goes away at about age 4 to 5 months.
- Trouble Sleeping Some infants will have trouble either falling asleep or waking up often during the night.
- Clinging To Parents When infants don’t see certain people (even close friends and grandparents) very often, they may become afraid of them.
Even though these problems will go away, it can be very upsetting while they are occurring. Talk with your pediatrician about ideas that will work for you and your baby until these problems go away.
Infants Thrive In Happy Families
Just like adults, infants do best with happy and healthy people around them. Look for parent/baby groups, support groups, or organizations in your community where parents with common interests can meet and get to know each other. If things are not going well in your family, if you need help finding groups in your neighborhood, or if you are worried about your baby, talk with your pediatrician. You are not alone; many other parents have these same concerns.
Starting New Routines
Now that you are beginning to know your baby’s patterns, your family, like many others, may be starting new routines. Here are some tips to help you.
Taking Care of Yourself Is Important
Even though infants usually are lovable, most parents have moments of frustration, and even anger, with their baby. Feeling this way is common and normal. What is important is how you deal with these feelings. When this happens to you, place your baby in a safe place like a crib or playpen and do something to relax and calm down—have a cup of tea or coffee, listen to music, call a friend or spouse, read, or meditate. These feelings of stress are natural and will pass.
Reach Out To Family and Friends, or Make New Friends With Other Parents
Having other adults to share the experience of raising a child can make all the difference in the world. If you are at home with your baby every day, it is a good idea to leave your baby with another trusted adult once in a while. Use this time to take care of yourself or be with your partner. Babies are delightful, but all parents need a break!
Last Updated 11/17/2009
Source Connected Kids: Safe, Strong, Secure (Copyright © 2006 American Academy of Pediatrics)
The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
