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Q&A: How Can I Deal With a Fussy Baby?

My baby seems so high needs and fussy. She doesn't tolerate the car seat very well, and can rarely play by herself. It gets worse towards the end of the day. Her newest thing is not letting anyone besides me or my husband hold her. I wonder if I am doing something wrong? I'm home with her all day, and I know she gets lots of love and attention. Will it ever get better? Will I have a happy little girl at some point?
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profile picture of Tammy Gold
Updated February 26, 2017
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With enough love, care and structure, all children can become happier beings. Babies are very difficult to understand, and need to be approached with a great deal of care. Sometimes, children that are deemed horrendous by their parents simply need some schedule tweaking and rule implementation.

I find that they do best with adhering to a very strict schedule that keeps them becoming too tired or under-stimulated. Nap and sleep time should be the same each day, as should the schedule of events like getting dressed, meals, play and baths. Keep a log of her behavior for a few days so you can note what seems to upset her. You should be able to get a clearer picture of what she likes and doesn’t like, and how she responds to certain situations.

Since you’re home all day with her, I’d break up her day into very small
segments that could be repeated each day. Children love routine and knowing exactly what is going to happen next. For older babies, I like to break activity sessions into 45-60 minute blocks of structured and unstructured play. A baby simply can not stay in the same room doing the same thing for several hours without getting bored and acting out.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

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