Is it Normal for Your Baby to Suddenly Develop Shyness?

Shyness is a normal response seen in infants to an overwhelming social experience. Such children may or may not retain this behavior for life. Remember that shyness is not abnormal and is a phase of the development process. Ensure that your baby is not experiencing severe discomfort or fear in new situations.

Causes

While there is no known cause for shyness in babies, several possible explanations exist that include:

• Some researchers believe shyness may be an inherited behavior. However, at the same time, children are likely to adopt behaviors seen in their parents, biological or not.


• The temporary withdrawal seen in children is a defense mechanism that helps them to gain a sense of control over their surroundings, especially in new situations such as a party with bright lights and many people talking loudly at the same time.


• Nature provides babies with a natural wariness of strangers. Babies start recognizing faces early in life, and feel comfortable with the familiar faces of their parents.


• Some children are naturally shy, and do not enjoy being the center of attention.

Helping the shy baby

Here are some ways to help your shy baby ‘come out’:

• Children learn by example. Appear outgoing and confident when your child is watching.


• Socialize your kids with as many people as possible right from an early age in different situations.


• Use positive association methods. Do not criticize, yell, or shout if your child refuses to play with somebody. Smile when your baby agrees to be held by a trusted person you know well.


• Do not force children to do something they do not like, as it will only reinforce shy behavior.


• Make playtime fun and encourage your baby to play with other kids. Use your children's favorite toys and objects to lure them into interacting with other people.

Help Your Child Cope with Colic

Colic is a health condition characterized by long and repeated bouts of crying seen in otherwise healthy infants. The causes of colic are not known, and though some believe that there is no such thing as colic, acute abdominal pain is believed to cause the symptoms.

While all infants cry, babies are said to be colicky if they cry for more than three hours a day for at least three days in a week in the first three to four months.

Symptoms


Colicky babies may display the following symptoms:

• High pitched crying for long periods in spite of constant comfort


• Irritability and fussiness


• Clenched fists


• Passing gas


• Arched back


• Sleeplessness and exhaustion

Treatment

• Diagnosis – Typically, infant colic subsides after a few months. A thorough medical examination is necessary to eliminate all possible causes. Take your child to a health professional immediately if you suspect that the child is suffering from colic.


• Dietary changes – Colic is sometimes attributed to certain foods or ingredients. Cow's milk is not suitable for some children who are lactose intolerant.


• Use of soothing techniques – Try different methods such as pacifier, baby swings, back massage, etc. to soothe the infant.


• Medications – Some parents believe gripe water and colic drops may help to reduce the child's symptoms.


• Use of Sedatives – Tranquilizers, alcohol, or any drug can adversely affect the child's development and need to be avoided.


• Alternative therapies – Several herbal and alternative remedies are available but the FDA does not regulate most of them. Hence, parents need to exercise caution.


• Parent Care – Parents of colicky babies require some care and attention themselves. To reduce the stress and frustration, parents may take turns to handle the child. Support by family members and friends may be a good alternative.