Busy baby

Ahh...memories. He was about two or three months old here.

The flu is all gone, so John and I are back to his regular social calendar. Rhyme Time was yesterday, but it was a rocky reunion. Several new babies have joined that look the same size as John, but are older. They were all crawling, and John was getting very frustrated because he couldn't join in.

He gave it a valiant effort though. He pushed so hard to get to the little girl next to us that he fell flat on his nose, setting off quite a tantrum. He did get up on all fours and manage to move a few inches in a crawling-like action though, which was pretty exciting for both him and me. I think it's because he had the traction of carpet, instead of sliding around on hardwood. To help him out at home, we got him a little area rug with a rubber back, so it won't slip around under him like a blanket does. It seems to help.

Today was Parentlink, which he enjoyed much more. Lots of cool toys to play with, without the peer pressure. The guest speaker was another nurse - she was really impressed with how far John could push up on his chest. She said we must do a lot of tummy-time to get strength like that. I just smiled and nodded - I didn't have the guts to admit I let him sleep on his tummy. I tried the back thing, but it just didn't work. Though, now that he can choose his own position, he often sleeps on his side.

This session was all about spoiling (more specifically, how it's not possible.) The nurse says I'm doing things right, because he doesn't cry to get what he wants anymore - it's mostly little noises and a lot of body language, which tells her I've been responsive to all his needs. She used him as the example for the class - we watched for his cues, and she quizzed the moms on what they meant. She said we're very lucky, because his cues are very clear to read.

It turns out he has some separation anxiety issues, though - she asked if he cries if I leave the room, which he often does. She said it's a normal phase, and shows that he's bonded to me, so it's not all bad, and gave me some information to help him work through it.

A dietition is coming in a couple weeks for a hands-on babyfood-making workshop. Can't miss that one.