Many parents worry they may be spoiling their baby with too much love and attention. They think that by responding to every cry they might be making their baby overly dependent and clingy or teaching it that it always will get what it wants.

• Babies who have been responded to quickly and consistently actually cry less than babies who have been left to cry.

• As toddlers, the babies whose cries were responded to promptly and consistently are more independent than the children whose cries were not responded to.

• One of the most important things for a baby to learn is that others will respond to him in a caring and predictable way.

• When that security is established in infancy, then the child is free to begin exploring the world on its own, knowing that it can seek and receive help and comfort when it needs it.

• It's also important to keep in mind that "responding" doesn't only mean big responses like feeding or taking your baby to bed with you.

• Crying is one of the major ways your baby has of communicating with you.
• a. With a young baby, moving close to him and talking softly in his ear can be very effective.
• b. Other times holding your hand firmly but gently on the baby's back or tummy will calm it.
• c. For very young babies, crossing their arms over their tummies or wrapping them snuggly in a blanket may help them to feel more calm and organized.

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