- Give your baby your devoted and undivided attention several times a day and this might be reading him a story, tickling his tummy or playing with him and his toys. Fill him up with large doses of ‘Mummy time’ so that he is more inclined to distract himself independently at other times during the day
- If you find that he is excessively fussing and yearning to be held all the time do check whether he is hungry, thirsty, tired or if his nappy needs changing. With a little bit of experimentation you may find that his napping routine needs some tweaking or he prefers being changed more often. Some babies only feel comfortable with a clean and dry bottom while others do not seem to care at all
- Your baby may just need a change of scenery! He may feel a little bored or under stimulated but he cannot whine like an older infant or moan like a teenager to communicate that to you. You can try switching rooms and a different toy to see if this works. While you are making dinner you could give him a pot and wooden spoon which he will be delighted with although you may need ear muffs!
- Have lots of different toys so that he always has something he finds exciting to play with. Rotate the toys so they are always stimulating for him; do not give him the same toy all the time. If he is still not happy even with all the exciting toys around him you may need to show him what fun they hold! You may need to show him how the pig squeaks if you squeeze it or bang on the drum so he can hear the glorious noise it makes!
- Peek-a-boo with your head around the corner is a good game to play just before you have to go off and do something. Wait until he seems contented then tell him you have to leave for a minute. A few peek-a-boos before gets him used to you going away but coming back shortly. Then get on with what you need to do quickly
- After a few minutes have passed you can return to your baby’s side to cuddle or play. Every time you leave, stay away a wee bit longer even if he fusses a bit but not so long he is screaming for you to return because he will probably start full on wailing as soon as you leave next time. You are trying to get the message across that a little solo time is good for him (as it is for you!)
Are You And Your Baby Never Apart?
Would you like to nurture and encourage your baby’s growing independence? You can do this by encouraging your little one to sometimes play alone for short periods of time. This can help you get a treasured little break too.
You may find that your baby is attached to you all day long and makes a big fuss if you try and put him down, even for a moment. Carrying babe around all day does wonders for your biceps but it can mean that some of your own needs and those of others in your family do not always get met. Your baby needs to start developing his own skills too like sitting upright and crawling. To start giving yourself little breaks and to help your little one flex his own muscle follow this plan in a bid to halt your back-breaking habit of hoisting him around everywhere.