Exploring Parenting Challenges by Age: Infants

Parents face challenges at every stage of their child’s development, and infancy (birth to 1 year of age) is no exception. Here are some of the obstacles commonly faced when children are at this age, as well as some helpful parenting tips:

• Exhaustion – Regularly feeding, burping, changing, bathing, and soothing an infant leaves little room for sleep, so it’s no wonder that many new parents become fatigued. Taking turns with your partner can make a world of difference, and when they’re unavailable, don’t be afraid to ask for help from another family member or friend.
• Loss of identity – This one tends to be especially challenging for stay-at-home parents. After having a baby, you might begin thinking of yourself just as a parent, thereby losing your identity as a spouse, friend, and coworker. Try to get out of the house with your baby during the day—you could visit a local park or join a playgroup—and hire a babysitter every once in a while so that you and your partner can have a much-needed date night.
• Lack of confidence – If this is your first baby, you might be questioning your parenting abilities. It’s very normal to feel this way. Luckily, there are numerous steps you can take to boost your confidence—try taking a parenting class, consulting with your child’s pediatrician, or joining a parenting group. And remember not to beat yourself up for not knowing everything right away.

Need Help Managing Your Child’s Behavior?

If you have an infant and you’re experiencing any of the parenting challenges described above, we may be able to help. We specialize in effective parenting, and we’ll be happy to discuss the issues you’re having and supply you with customized parenting tips. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.