Development:
7-9 Mths: Strong Feelings
 Your
baby is becoming a sensitive soul! Don't be concerned if she becomes fearful
of strangers or situations - this is a normal stage and will pass.
Your
baby may become afraid of activities that she previously enjoyed. Some
babies become scared of water and cry at bath time. Others become distressed
at the sight of an animal or at sounds in a busy street. Don't make a
fuss - be gentle and patient. Reassure her that she is safe and secure.
I
know you and I love you...
Between 6-7 months, your baby becomes very attached to you and may cry
when you leave the room. Don't try to avoid a fuss by sneaking out. Say
goodbye, tell her that you'll be back and help her learn to trust that
you will return. Routine and rituals help. If your baby has a regular
routine, part of which involves you going away and another part is your
return later, this predictability gives her a sense of security. It allows
her to cope with the loss when you go, knowing that later you will return.
If your baby is attached to several people then she will feel the 'loss'
of any one less. If your baby stays with her father or well-loved grandparents,
both she and you will feel more secure.
...but I don't know you
She may also become timid and anxious
with strangers. Introduce unfamiliar people gradually, while you are in
the room. Babies differ in their sociability. Some babies will quickly
adapt to a new face, where others will hide in their mother's shoulder
and avoid all eye contact with the stranger. Keep initial introductions
casual and direct attention away from baby. Your baby may resist any newcomer
and in this case it's best not to force it.
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