Ensuring Your Baby Doesn't Get Overwhelmed During Social Situations

My sister jokingly calls the multitude of activities that I plan for my baby and I the "overwhelmed baby network" and it's really not too far from the truth. When we made the decision that I would stay home with my baby I wanted very much to ensure she had my care first and foremost, but also a good amount of social activity. I am very pleased that we are involved in a number of activities that have included swim class, workouts for mommy that include baby, and plenty of playgroups. It's good for both of us and makes being home with my baby enjoyable and gives us fun things to look forward to. Though in spite of all the social interaction my baby has, sometimes she just gets overwhelmed in certain social situation. She does pretty well most of the time, but how do you keep the most well adjusted or socially inept baby from having a meltdown? Here are a few things I've found:

*As hard as it is if you are a social person and/or a planner, try hard to limit your activities. I have found that in a given day I can for sure get my baby to one activity without any problems. If I really want or need to pull in two activities then I better be sure that I get the baby a good nap. Without a little sleep break in between, there is sure to be a meltdown at the second activity. Be picky about your activities and don't go overboard as it's easy to do sometimes. Keep the baby as the first priority and recognize that you just may not be able to go to all the activities that you used to. Giving up an activity here and there is worth it if it keeps the baby (and you) sane!

*Bring little activities and snacks along on any trip. Even when we go to Church we ensure that we have a diaper bag full of snacks, sippy cup, toys, and anything that can possibly keep her entertained. (a burp cloth can serve well for a game of peek-a-boo if all else fails) If you try to brave a trip to the store or a playgroup or even a visit to auntie's house without a few tools of the trade, you will likely be sorry. This is especially important if you are going to a house that isn't babyproofed or a dinner that could take longer than baby is used to.

*Pack your patience and look for alternative methods. Always look for an escape route of sorts when you have baby with you. If you are at a house and you fear a meltdown may be coming, look for another room to head into. If you are at a restaurant, look for a roomy lobby or bathroom that you can take baby. Sometimes with all the interaction and distractions, baby can get overwhelmed. Just a few minutes away from the table or social setting can calm the baby down and make her feel a bit more reassured. Always be patient and remember that they're still learning what everything is all about, they may just need you and only you for a minute or two.

*Try to keep baby to any established schedule whenever possible. This is very helpful to keep in mind with the holidays quickly approaching. If your baby takes a morning and/or afternoon nap, try to stick to that routine even if it's at differing times. Even if you can lay the baby down in a pack and play for them to rest, it can make a huge difference later on. If they are sleep deprived and out of any established schedule, you can almost count on a meltdown. Feeding them at regular intervals can help too, so bring plenty of food and bottles with you!

Even the most social baby can get overwhelmed sometimes. As a parent, it's your job to figure out what it takes to keep the baby calm and happy no matter what social situation you are in.