Re: My nine-month-old wants nothing to do with anyone but me. How can I get some time to myself without making him miserable?
Ah, the age of stranger anxiety. This is perfectly normal and actually means your baby’s getting smarter -- he knows you’re the best at taking care of him, so he wants to keep you very close by. He will grow out of this phase, but in the meantime, let friends and family know he’s going through a shy phase so A. they should give him ample time to warm up and B. they shouldn’t be insulted if he doesn’t.
One way to encourage him to broaden his social horizons is to sit with him while someone else engages him with a toy, game or song. Then, once he’s comfortable, try leaving the room. Chances are he’ll forget about you (not forever!) and have fun with his new friend.
Paula Kashtan | May 07 , 2009 1:59 PM