Does comforting spoil him?
It used to be considered quite good for babies to have a good cry. Some people suggested that it would be good for his little lungs. And it was said that you would spoil your baby if you would comfort him too soon. Today we know better. You cannot spoil a little baby by comforting him when he cries. What is more, if you respond to your baby when he cries, he realizes that he is being heard and that makes it more likely that over time he cries less and less. It gives him a basic feeling of safety. It is a good thing to comfort your baby. But the best way to comfort your baby you will have to discover for yourself. What works well for one baby does not necessarily work for another. Talking to your child is always good. Singing, hugging, rocking and humming can help. Dancing a little with your baby in your arms to divert his attention might work wonders as well. Some babies find it pleasant to be in a hammock (that you can attach to his playpen), rocking back and forth. Carrying your baby on your body in a sling provides comfort as well. Your baby hears your heartbeat (a familiar sound) and he smells your scent. This often calms him down.
Your baby's mental development is very important and significant. It affects not only your baby's mood, but also his health, his intelligence, his sleeping pattern, the three C’s (crying, clinginess, crankiness), and much more. Once you understand your baby’s mental development, you can help your baby in so many ways. If you would like to learn more about the mental development of your baby, order a copy of The Wonder Weeks, which is based on international research.
