Milestones at month 11 – bear with his separation anxiety, he will survive
As a parent, you are more excited than your baby as he approaches his first birthday. Of course the importance of the date at that age, while a big deal for you, is lost on the child. As you plan your baby’s birthday bash, a rush of apprehension hits you as you are not sure about his capacity to handle the visitors that will descend on your house on the material day. You are also aware that because of how busy you will be, your baby may suffer feelings of anxiety on the day, and may ruin it for himself and everyone else.
This anxiety is compounded by the fact that he has also been so dependant on you for everything and now time has come to let go of some of that. He is now getting much more aware of what is going on and can realise when you leave. So much has been the attachment such that he may get nervous when you are not in sight and sometimes cry almost hysterically. As great as your baby’s anxiety may seem, your own anxiety may be worse especially during moments when you have to leave the house. Many mothers start questioning themselves about the perceived or seeming ‘loneliness’ of their little one.
Quick remedy of coping with anxiety separation
Instead of ranting about it, you may have to deal with separation anxiety by saying goodbye to your bundle of joy within the shortest time possible every time you are leaving. Also, try and ensure you do not stay away from your baby for too long. Furthermore, you will need to also appreciate and trust other people that are helping you with the baby. This way, you will have peace of mind when you are away tending to other duties. Within no time, you will realize that your baby can actually deal with or survive the separation.
Apart from the separation anxiety, you will be astounded by your baby’s changes in terms of refining his attitude, sharpening his skills and improving his performance in whatever he does. You will notice a remarkable improvement in his vocal development in such a way that he will make sounds that are like actual words and even repeat after any sounds he may hear. Encourage him by listening to him well and responding to the sounds that he may be making.
Other development milestones to look for at month 11 include; Motor Development ■ Your baby may take his first independent steps and will always be trying to move by holding onto furniture. You will notice him moving away from you or just going from one way to the other.
■ He will stand without support and if there is music playing, you will see him rocking slowly to the music. You should be encouraged as it helps the baby to practice balance.
■ Your baby may begin to turn the pages of a book.
■ Children at this age love things that move, therefore, you will find him swinging the door back and forth.
Language and intellect
■ He will be able to copy any actions you do as well as imitate sounds.
■ As stated early, he will begin to understand words if you repeatedly speak them to him.
■ He will seem innovative such that he will begin to use his toys in new and creative ways from the ones created for.
■ Your baby will start to learn concepts such as up and down, hot and cold, in and out.
Emotionally and socially
■ He will make deliberate efforts to initiate social interactions like play etc.
■ If you approve of him because of something he has accomplished, your baby will show pride by way of acknowledgement.
■ He may show a lot of interest in helping you with chores like removing his socks, hut, and clothes among others.
■ He will most likely be able to eat and drink by himself, not perfectly of course but some of the things that he will be consuming with make their way to his mouth.
■ Your baby may be able to follow simple instructions from you. For instance if you ask him to bring a toy, spoon, anything.
■ He may desire stuffed animals or teddy bears for comfort and assurance.
■ If you have other children, he will most likely demand preferential treatment and your full attention at the expense of his siblings.
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