Question
My 6-month-old baby boy constantly wants to be picked up and held. Whenever I try to set him down, he fusses until I hold him again. How can I help redirect his attention and encourage him to enjoy playing on his own?
Answer
Thank you for reaching out to Parent Guru.
Your son is still in Season 1 of life. This period encompasses roughly the first 18-24 months of a child's life. During these early months babies are totally helpless and dependent on others to meet their every need, Season 1 is a period of servitude whereby the child sits at the center of the family. This is as it should be.
It is normal for your son to want to be held during this time and it is important to meet his demands. Doing so often requires frequent attention and care including actively interacting and engaging in playful activities with him. This is a critically important time in your son's life during which the foundation is being laid for learning to trust as well as other important aspects of healthy emotional development.
Enjoy this special period of time with your son. It passes quickly!
Sincerely,
Sharon Lamberth
Certified Leadership Parent Coach
sklamberth17@gmail.com
parentwithconfidence.org
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