Screaming Queen

Join Us On Facebook! | CONTACT | BABY BLOG | HOME |

Screaming Queen

by Pamila
(Independence, Mo.)

Why does my 11 month old granddaughter scream at the top of her lungs and how should I approach this matter?

Comments for
Screaming Queen

Click here to add your own comments

Dec 01, 2008

Screaming Queen
by: Baby Help Line - Annie

Hi Pamila,

It sounds like you have a pretty feisty granddaughter! I am not sure if she is screaming in anger and frustration or if she is screaming at times to get attention or just to make lots of loud noise.

11 months can be a frustrating time for a baby, trying to make themselves understood, but not having the language yet. Some babies, when they learn they can make really loud noises, just enjoy being able to create the sound!

If she is learning to get attention by screaming then, that is something you want to minimize. It could be that she isn't getting attention until she makes a loud enough noise to demand it! You don't want to reinforce the screaming, so make sure you pick up on her attempts to gain attention earlier so she gets reinforcement from smiling and gurgling at you, or showing you toys.

Reinforcing the good behavior is much better than trying to stop the undesirable behavior. If she is screaming when you are trying to dress her or help her do something, then just sit still with her, holding her quietly until she calms down. If everyone rushes around trying to ask what is wrong, or trying to tell her to be quiet then it is still reinforcing the screaming. By just holding her quietly and waiting until she is quiet you are keeping her safe, but not responding to the demands until she is quiet.

Another thing you might think about, is baby sign language. Lots of babies get very frustrated trying to communicate, but babies from a very young age can learn signing, to ask for a drink or a cuddle, or say I'm hungry. It is a fantastic communication tool, and it also means you are all learning something together, so the bonus is bonding and sharing time. You can read some tips to get you started with baby sign language here if you are curious.

She is a luckly little girl to have a grand-mother available to help - have lots of fun with her.

Wishing you Joy,
Annie Desantis

Click here to add your own comments