Find Answers

Why does my baby insist on being held?

My baby cries if put down at 6 weeks old. My baby won't sit in carriers, swings, strollers, or bouncers. Why and what can I do?

Submitted by mistie081

This depends on the age of the child. For the first 3-4 months the babies are in the "4th trimester" when they need to be held and carried a LOT! And, for the next 3-4 months many babies are much more interested in people than things...so they will do OK in a swing or infant seat for a while...as long as they can watch you (like cooking dinner or writing bills) and you can respond in a timely way to their coos and cries (they love to listen to music with you, too!).

Remember, for thousands of years our young children spent most of the day outside and they were fascinated by the play of shadows on the wall, leaves waving in the wind and the entertaining antics of chattering kids, frisky dogs and clucking chickens...that's why all young children - no matter their age - love to be outside! That doesn't mean it's good to plunk your child in front of a TV all day. Movement and sound coming from nonexistent flat characters confined within a box is really strange to them.

A great tip is to go for a long walk 1-2 times a day. This will automatically help your child be more patient and tolerant of the more staid environment at home.

Answered by Dr. Harvey Karp

Community Answers3

Answer this Question

as odd as this may sound treat him like a puppy. give him something that has your smell when you put him in the swing or carrier. my ped told me to sleep with a baby blanket so it has my smell on it and it worked. thats his favorite blanket. (i cheated and have 3 exactly alike for wash time lol)

Submitted by Paepae

Report Abuse

I was told that all newborn babies have separation anxiety, some babies are just able to deal with it better than others. Using a sling with your baby can help when doing tasks around the house as it makes them feel secure and your not having to hold them all the time.

Submitted by banarama1

Report Abuse

Put your baby down in a bouncy chair for example. If he/she cries talk to him/her and tell them "its ok, mommy/daddy is here, you don't have to cry". Keep talking to them telling them it's ok. Do this exercise for longer and longer periods and always pick up the baby afterwards. Soon the baby will know that even though you are not holding him/her that you're still there.

Submitted by localattanzi

Report Abuse