Where did my sweetie go?

Robeano

So since Hannah has been born she has been the sweetest, happiest baby ever. Easy to take care of etc etc

Que the last week, crying over everything, doesn't want to be held, doesn't want to be put down, doesn't want to eat that, doesn't want to play with that toy. Yikes I thought it was teething, but it seems more intense than her last teething time. I guess she's just growing and this is a new developmental state. What tips do you ladies have for me? Hubby and I are coming close to our wits end

Mrs.AmyDylan

I think it is the pre-verbal frustration. My mom said 14-18mo were her least favorite for all of us.

I do a lot of hugging, offering choices, and talking to her about what we are doing and what is going on. 

When she does the on the floor flailing tantrum. I tell her in a kind voice, "you sounds frustrated, maybe you would like ____". Sometimes we will move rooms to change the scenery. 

If I had to remove something unsafe from her, "I'm sorry mommy had to take the styrofoam cup, but eating chunks off the side is unsafe and will hurt your tummy, how about a plastic cup?"  She doesn't always respond, but she understands and will occasionally come take the alternate item. 

When all else fails or she has been whiny for awhile, I offer the boob and it usually adjusts her attitude for a little while. 

queenbone

We found the Happiest Toddler on The Block book helpful. Talking like a cave baby feels stupid, but it seems to help to some degree, especially at this point when they don't have a lot of words like PP mentioned.

TJ1979

Ooh, yeah, that's a rough phase! But it's just that, another phase. I agree with lots of communication and offering choices. She is learning that she has some sort of control over her environment. Let her be in charge by making choices, but make sure you are ok with either option. Hugs. This too shall pass.

TJ1979

Haha @Ducky719‌. None of us think you're a bad mom. E is the same way. She sure has a temper when she doesn't get her way.

Robeano

Thank you everybody for your suggestions. I will try more choices I guess. Sometimes it likes she has no ability to cope, with anything.

TJ1979

Could she be getting overstimulated? We have E sit down between the dining room and kitchen to "take a break and think about it." We leave her for one minute or until she quits shrieking/crying/whatever. Removing her from the situation really helps.