Who doesn’t know that?
When the baby turns night into day, cries and whines all the time or simply does not want to fall asleep on its own, then this sentence runs like a mantra through the parents' everyday life: "It's just a phase!" Take a deep breath. "It's just a phase!" 5 breaths later, the nerves are
There are just those days when nothing goes according to plan. Your little darling had just gotten used to his new sleeping pattern - and now it's all over again. Or were you raving about how happy your child is yesterday - and today all he does is scream? No matter what the phase is like: if suddenly nothing works as it did before and the stress level rises, then harmonious family life is quickly over.
From one phase to the next
The nasty thing about it is that when one phase is over, the next one usually follows immediately. You've just gotten used to the situation and think that things are finally calming down, when a new phase is already on the horizon. And these phases run through all age groups. From the "always in mom's arms" phase to the "I don't want to sleep" phase and the "I'm teething" phase to the stranger anxiety phase, the "NO" phase or the defiant phase.
The good thing about it: All (or most) parents probably feel the same way. Every child goes through their phases. Of course, that doesn't help in the current situation. But maybe it helps to look at the whole thing from a different perspective.
What is actually behind these “phases”?
Even though these "phases" can be really exhausting, they are important. Because they are a signal that your child is developing - physically and mentally. When new connections are formed in its little brain and your baby makes completely new discoveries and experiences, it needs time to get used to it. New knowledge and skills always involve a certain amount of effort for your child. This means that these phases are not only exhausting for you as parents, but also for your child. This is exactly why it is so restless and dissatisfied or seeks your closeness.
I'm here for you!
During this time, which you experience as such a stressful phase, your baby needs a lot of love and care. Because with every developmental leap, its little world suddenly changes anew. That can be quite upsetting for such a small being. With loving affection, you can give your child the security it needs now.
Stay calm – perfectly imperfect
Of course, that's easier said than done. When your nerves are frayed, it's difficult to stay calm and to radiate that. As parents, we always want to do our best. But in doing so, we often reach our limits.
Then only one thing helps: accept what is. Stay calm. Realize that children do not "function" the way we would like them to. Not everything can go perfectly and according to plan. That's life - sometimes you can improvise.
And: Mom and Dad are allowed to be overwhelmed and stressed sometimes. We are all just so wonderfully “perfectly imperfect”. The nice thing about it: if you admit this to yourself, it will be easier to accept help and support from outside. Just give it a try!
Our tip:
If you are currently in the phase where your baby wants to be rocked all the time, then we recommend our hammock. Babies love them and parents are grateful for a little break.
