Parenting a Demanding Baby

Practical Tips

• Babies cry for many different reasons, including hunger, tiredness, being too hot or cold, needing a diaper change and craving attention. Many babies cry in a particular way for each specific need. A baby may moan and groan when he needs his nappy changed, and emit a high-pitched cry when he is in pain. By paying close attention to your baby's cries and moans, you may be able to work out exactly what he needs, and meet his demands sooner. If you can't work out why your baby is crying, try swaddling him and holding him close while you sway him gently or sing softly to him. Some babies are comforted by music or background noise. A warm bath or a walk in the fresh air might also help.

A Different Perspective

• Many people have preconceived ideas about parenthood. Until the baby is born, however, it is impossible to decide what parenting methods will work for you. Some professionals suggest leaving a baby to cry until she stops of her own accord, but very demanding babies often just carry on crying, which can take its toll on the rest of the family. Breastfeeding is often a source of comfort to babies as well as a source of food. You may want to breastfeed your baby every four hours, but end up having to feed her on demand. The key is to remain as open-minded as possible and accept that you can't control every aspect of your new life as a parent. Don't see your demanding baby as manipulative; babies are not able to manipulate, they simply have their own individual ways of communicating.

Support Network

• Demanding babies are by no means uncommon; however, it may be difficult to find fellow parents who have shared your experience. Some parents don't open up about their demanding baby for fear of being criticized. Seek out like-minded individuals who are open-minded about parenting styles and can provide that vital support network of peers. Having a strong support network of friends and relatives will help you feel like you are not carrying the entire burden of your demanding tot.

Taking Time Out

• Parenting a demanding baby is tiring, frustrating and stressful. It's important to stay calm and remember that this won't last forever. Don't feel guilty about taking some time out to organize your thoughts before attending to your baby. Provided she is not ill or injured, and is in a safe, comfortable place like a cot or pram, go to another room for a few minutes, take a few deep breaths and decide what you are going to do. Don't be embarrassed to ask family and friends to help if you feel yourself getting overwhelmed by your baby's demands. Leaving your baby with someone you trust for an hour to take a nap, go for a walk or do something that you enjoy will help to focus your mind. Then, you can go back to your baby in a calmer, happier state.