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I have a question. Why is my 6 month baby crying everyday when leave him with my neighbour ( my baby’s nanny)? He refuses anyone after I leave him. He will cry from the start when I leave him before I go to work, until I return. Now my neighbor refuses to take care of him if he is still crying. Before he was 6 months, he was not crying, but when he start to recognize people, he always cries. What should I do? Please help me..
Thank you
Ayu
Asked by Ayu - Posted 1 year, 7 months, 2 weeks, 4 days, 23 hours, 43 minutes ago.
Dear Ayu,
When babies are about 5months of age, most of them start to recognise people. They very often will also choose whom they prefer. In your baby’s case, he obviously wants to be with you. To rectify the issue will take some time and patience but it is not impossible.
Firstly, when holding your baby, be confident and gently talk to him when strangers are around. It will be good if the strangers do not approach him or touch him immediately. Let him warm up to them.
Spend some time with him at the nanny’s house. Play and talk to him. Gradually get the nanny involved. Let him warm up to the nanny again. Once he has warm up to the nanny, you may then leave him for short periods with the nanny. Always tell him when and where you are going away , even for a short while. You may need to do this for few days before you can leave him there again.
When leaving for work, do spend a little time with him before leaving him at the nanny. Explain where you are going and when you will be back to fetch him with a gently yet confident voice.When you are back to fetch him, appear to be really happy to see him and explained that you are back from work.
You may suggest to your nanny to be patient and when baby is crying, to distract him. This usually work at this age.
I know this must be very upsetting for you but with patience and time, things will be alright.
Good Luck!
Jennifer Hor
United Kingdom trained Nurse and Midwife
