Addressing Common Infant Behavior Issues: Feeding, Sleep, and Development

Baby's lifestyle habits issues?

Dr.
Hsiao: I have a question about my four-month-old baby.
When I place him on his stomach, he is unable to lift his head to a 45-degree angle and ends up with his face flat on the ground.
Is this a concern? Additionally, he loves sucking on his fingers but doesn't drink much milk or use a pacifier.
When I try to feed him, he only drinks a certain amount before refusing and opting to suck on his fingers instead.
If I don't allow him to suck on his fingers, or if he can't reach them, he gets very upset and cries.
I've tried offering a pacifier as a substitute, but he refuses to use it.
How can I help him stop this habit? I've heard from elders that this could affect his finger development.
He also rarely has quiet moments; as long as he is awake, he constantly cries or makes noise.
Sometimes I try to slow down my responses or ignore him, but he just cries even more.
He only smiles when he sees me within his line of sight.
If he wakes up or is about to sleep and can't see anyone or hear any sounds, he cries loudly.
It takes about 30 minutes of comforting before he calms down.
Is it possible that he feels insecure? I’m worried that my baby is overly anxious.
How can I train him to be more well-behaved and improve his anxiety? Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I wish you peace and joy.

11, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/02/08

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

When a baby discovers that crying leads to "feedback," they will naturally continue to do so, resulting in a negative cycle that is not ideal.
It is advisable to observe from a distance first.
If there are no signs of physical discomfort, you can continue to monitor the situation, but it is important to strike a balance: do not feel "reluctant" to let them cry, nor should you let them "cry uncontrollably."
For a four-month-old baby who is lying face down and unable to lift their head, if their muscle strength is slightly slower but there are no other significant delays (such as in smiling or limb movement), you can continue to observe their progress in rolling over, sitting, and crawling.
You can use toys that interest them, engage in play, and use music to capture their attention, gradually helping them to reduce the habit of thumb-sucking.
There are many books published by experts on training infants and toddlers that can also serve as references.

Reply Date: 2010/02/08

More Info

Addressing common infant behavior issues, particularly those related to feeding, sleep, and development, can be a challenging yet rewarding experience for parents. Your concerns about your four-month-old baby not being able to lift their head while lying on their stomach, their preference for sucking their fingers instead of drinking milk, and their overall restlessness are valid and shared by many parents.

Firstly, regarding your baby's inability to lift their head while on their stomach, it is important to understand that each infant develops at their own pace. By four months, many babies can lift their heads to about a 45-degree angle when placed on their stomach, but some may take a bit longer. If your baby is not showing other signs of developmental delays, such as not smiling or moving their limbs, it may just be a matter of time. You can encourage head lifting by placing interesting toys just out of reach to motivate them to look up and reach for them. Tummy time is crucial for developing neck and shoulder strength, so continue to provide opportunities for this, but always supervise to ensure safety.

As for your baby’s preference for sucking their fingers rather than drinking from a bottle or pacifier, this is a common behavior among infants. Sucking is a natural reflex that provides comfort and security. While it’s generally not harmful, excessive finger sucking can lead to dental issues later on. To encourage your baby to drink from a bottle or pacifier, try different types of nipples or pacifiers, as some babies have preferences for certain shapes or materials. You can also try to introduce the bottle when your baby is calm and not overly hungry, as they may be more receptive to it. If they refuse, don’t force it; instead, try again later.

Your observation that your baby cries when they cannot see you or when they wake up is indicative of their developing attachment and need for security. Infants often experience separation anxiety, which can manifest as distress when they cannot see their caregivers. To help your baby feel more secure, consider establishing a consistent routine for sleep and play. This can include a calming bedtime routine that signals to your baby that it’s time to sleep. You might read a story, sing a lullaby, or play soft music to help them wind down.

If your baby is frequently crying or seems to need constant attention, it may be beneficial to gradually encourage independent play. Start by placing your baby in a safe space with toys and stepping away for short periods. This can help them learn that it’s okay to play alone for a little while. If they cry, you can wait a moment before returning to reassure them, gradually increasing the time you are away. This method can help build their confidence and sense of security.

Lastly, regarding your concern about your baby’s energy levels and their tendency to be active, it’s important to remember that infants have varying temperaments. Some babies are naturally more active and require more stimulation. Providing a variety of activities, such as tummy time, reaching for toys, and gentle rocking, can help channel their energy positively.

In summary, while your baby’s behaviors may seem concerning, they are often part of normal development. Continue to monitor their progress, provide a nurturing environment, and consult with your pediatrician if you have ongoing concerns. Each child is unique, and with time, patience, and love, they will develop into their own person.

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