Discovering Your Baby's Temperament

Your baby has a temperament. Temperament can make a person behave in a certain way. For example, one baby may cry and hide at the sight of a large animal. Another baby may be cautious and interested. And a third may be fearless and try to play with the animal right away. The first temperament is sometimes called "slow-to-warm-up." You may hear the second called "adaptable." The third is often called "feisty." Some babies combine these three temperaments — being shy sometimes and adaptable or feisty at other times. Knowing your baby's temperament will help you help your baby.

Some babies are shy. They turn away from new people. They do not adapt to change quickly. Let your baby take the lead in new situations. Encourage strangers not to get right in your baby's face and force eye contact. Avoid loud outbursts. These may be frightening to a shy baby. Introduce new people slowly.

Some babies are relaxed and easygoing. They are eager to explore new places and things. They respond quickly to change. They can often calm themselves in times of stress. These babies are likely to be sound sleepers and eager eaters.

Some babies are strong willed and intense. They find change distressing. They react strongly to new events and situations. They need a regular routine for eating, sleeping and outings. They sometimes need extra physical contact with you. Whatever the temperament, your job is clear. Identify and respect your baby's temperament. Then you can support his growth, confidence and abilities.

These tips were reproduced from the U.S. Department of Education.

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