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5 Month Old Screams Whenever Dad Touches Him
by Kristina Ball
My 5 month old son screams whenever his dad touches or holds him. It really upsets my husband and he says it makes him not want to even go around him or do anything for him. Baby Help Line: Tips When Baby Doesn't Accept DadIt is quite common that a baby starts prefering one of the parents, usually mom. It can be tough for both parents, but most - at least emotionally - for the one NOT prefered. It is, however, also really hard for Moms when you can't get a break. Babies are often far more attached to their mother's - after all they start life inside you. You smell all nice and milky, you are probably far more attuned to how to sooth him. It is very natural for a little baby to want security and if mom is there the most, mom is prefered; simple as that. From time to time at least. It is a natural development and bonding process. But since your husband is sad about it and you are exhausted, you should of course try to change it! What dad should NOT do is to give up! More time spent with the baby is needed, not less! At first, dad can start making lots of eye contact and play lots of smiley games like blowing raspberries, and peepo - all while in your arms. This way your baby will gain more confidence with him. Dads can often be a little scary, big deep voices, rougher movements, different smells etc. And often the time we want to hand over the baby, is late in the day, baby is tired and Mom is getting a bit stressed and wants to get dinner on, and he will pick up on your withdrawal. And just when you most need a break, all he wants is you! Another possibility is to invest in a front carrier pack. This way, you baby can be in dad's arms, getting used to his smell, but still see you, if that helps. Or even without seeing you, many 5 months babies really love being up and around and being carried face out on dad's chest when going out to touch the leaves or flowers for example can be a great adventure - enough to "forget" mom for a little while. Have you tried going away for short periods of time, leaving your baby and husband to each other? That is actually the most effective way to speed up the bonding process between the two of them. Time for you to go shopping, going to the hair dresser or whatever... ;-) Choose a time when your baby is likely to be alert and content and simply walk out of the house! Agree with your husband for how long, and make sure you enjoy it and rely on them handling the situation. Even if it is just for 30 minutes it will give them time alone and you too. Another, maybe even better option if you are exhausted is that your husband and baby leaves the house and let you relax and sleep. Your baby is getting old enough to enjoy both going to a playground to watch other kids and maybe try the swing or to start baby swimming. Maybe your husband could consider a baby swim class once per week as his little project with your baby? If you continue to let them spend time together as often as possible (with and without you), I'm quite sure things will improve. Maybe your child will continue to prefer mom for a long time - many babies do - but it can be to a lesser degree. I really wish you good luck! Here are some more tips for dad on how to bond with a baby And here is a long forum discussion among parents who feel rejected by their babies. Paula Find answers and comments below.
Find more Baby Bonding Q&As and other Baby Tips here:
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