Is there a finer sound than a baby’s giggle?

I used to believe that this age was the best of all. At age 4 to 6 months, babies are too small to get themselves into trouble, yet old enough to enjoy a baby-sized joke.

Most days, my infants thought I was really amusing. Almost any funny face or silly song could rouse a giggle. Just showing up to chat made my baby smile. With infants, activities were simple and fun.

Still, not every day was a picnic. And not every baby is easy to please. Some are downright difficult. It seems these babies greet each day looking for something to gripe about, and they react very loudly to things they don’t like. If that describes your child, take heart. There are things you can do to make life easier.

Calming Baby Requires Consideration

Do:

  • Introduce new toys, foods and settings slowly, so your baby can get used to them.
  • Pay attention to your baby’s signals and try to avoid the things that upset him.

Don’t:

  • Blame your baby. Scientists say he was born with his personality. But smart parenting can help overcome challenges like shyness, fear or defiance.
  • React with anger and frustration. Tough? You bet, but staying calm and positive can help you avoid power struggles. It also teaches your child new ways to tackle life. For example, when you feel your frustration level rising too high, you can take a short break, walk outdoors, call a friend or find some humor in the middle of the storm.

As Babies Age, Personalities Become Strengths

Here’s some good news. The very things that make our children "difficult" often turn out to be their strengths as they grow up. After all, the world needs strong, sensitive leaders who won’t take no for an answer and have the energy to go after what they need. It also needs calm, quiet thinkers who sit back to watch and dream up new adventures.

Over time, you will learn what works and what doesn’t when raising your baby. Your caring and patience will teach him how to respond to the world, and how to turn his personality--no matter what it’s like--into a plus.