There Are No Rules!
You've probably heard the phrase 'babies don't come with instruction manuals'. Well, actually there are many publications out there on how to care and raise a baby, but there is no instruction manual for your particular baby. When receiving advice on baby related issues, it's important to remember that every baby is different, so how you care for your baby will be different to how your friend cares for her baby. Don't compare your baby to other babies, and worry if they don't act the same, as your baby is an individual. Your friend's baby might drink more milk than your baby, or seem miles ahead developmentally. Every baby develops at their own pace, and they have their own individual temperament and personality, personal likes and dislikes. Some babies are shy and uncertain of new people and situations, others dive in headfirst with boundless confidence. Some babies sleep through the night at 6 weeks and others don't sleep through the night until after their first birthday.
Why is My Baby Different to Other Babies?
Parents often worry that if their baby isn't doing the same thing as other babies, then they are doing something wrong as parents. This is rarely the case, it is just that babies are as different to each other as adults are. The phrase 'every baby is different' can be frustrating to parents, who just want a definitive answer to their baby related questions and problems. However, when babies are concerned, there are rarely clear cut answers. Most concerns parents have, such as 'how can I teach my baby to sleep through the night?', don't have a one-size fits all solution. When you look for answers to baby related questions, whether you seek help from the internet, baby books, health advisors or friends and family, embrace the freedom you have in how to raise your child. As your get used to being a parent and you get to know your baby, you'll feel more confident in relying on yourself to know what to do. Trust your instincts as a parent when you care for your baby, and be creative; if you find your baby doesn't respond to something you've read most babies love, try something else.
Adapting Your Parenting
It's important to be flexible and adaptable in your parenting approach. What worked for baby number one might not work for baby number 2. Similarly, as your baby gets older you'll have to adapt your parenting methods, what worked for your baby at 6 months will have to be adapted for a one year old. You should also try and be tolerant of your partner or other relatives who look after your child if they have different methods and techniques. Most of the time, when it comes to babies, there is more than one right way of doing things. You might find it difficult if your partner or other relative prepares your baby's meals differently, or uses a different method to soothe them but if it is safe and it works, it's probably as good a way as any!
