Do you have a small baby at home? Do your older children understand the baby’s needs? Here are some ideas to help you explore what it’s like to be so small. Read this and enter the world as it appears to a baby in its first year of life.
Being a baby brings me a lot of frustrations. When I was born, I couldn’t see very clearly and I couldn’t see very far either. This meant that being alone was not pleasant at all. I know who my mother is and I feel great when she is around her. The best thing is when she hugs me. My body relaxes and a special chemical called oxytocin makes me feel very happy.
There are real problems when I want something because I can only cry. I still can’t talk like other people. But I have several different screams. Each one means something different, but not everyone can tell which is which. You have to listen very carefully. It can be difficult for people who don’t know me.
I get really scared when I cry and no one comes. There are those who say that it does me good to cry and that I exercise my lungs. I find it strange because adults don’t have to do that. Other people think that letting me cry teaches me a lesson and keeps me from seeking attention. If you were hungry, cold, in pain, or had an uncomfortably dirty diaper, would you want to be silenced?
I sleep a lot. I need to sleep because I’m growing up so fast and everyone, even adults, repairs their bodies when they’re asleep. When I am tired, I need to be comfortable, warm and calm. I don’t always need to be alone and it can be nice to see my family when I wake up.
Until now, I can’t move much on my own, which is another reason to want company. I can only see the room from one point of view unless people are holding me or walking with me in their arms. So I can watch everything. I especially like people-watching. When I go out I like to be in a buggy that allows me to see more than people’s ankles. I don’t like new strollers that are low and don’t face my mom. I’m told that in the old days, strollers were tall and looked at mom. People passing by could look and chat with me, and since I could see Mom too, that was really nice.
If people want to make life really enjoyable for babies, here are my top 5 things to do:
one. Hug me and give lots of cuddles. While I’m awake I love your company.
two. learn my language
When I cry I’m trying to tell you something. If you understand my language, I will be happy and content. We’ll get along. I promise that I will also learn your language when I am older, which will be easier for everyone.
3. make my life interesting.
Toys are nice, but people are even better. Put me where I can see what’s going on. I love that!
Four. Play with me
I like simple games like peepbo and tickling, the chance to have someone to myself. That’s brilliant.
5. keep me safe.
I don’t like surprises that I don’t understand. Loud noises scare me and I am also scared of being left alone for too long. I need to know that you are there and you have not abandoned me. That is my worst nightmare as a defenseless baby that I would not survive. Nature has given me a loud cry because I only have to get you back when you leave. I can’t help it, so don’t be mad at me. Once we all understand each other, life is much easier.