my 3 week old does not stay up long after feed is this ok?

[nenee]

My little one does not have much of an activity time especially after feeds, iv tried putting him in his chair but he cries after a few mins and gets tires very quickly, he also does not like the sounds or music it makes. im worried that if he does not get use to being put down he will be clingy or is it normal that he just does not want much activity yet? how can i encourage him to sit in his chair and when will he be more awake? what activities should i give him at his age as at the mo its nappy, tlaking and looking around and bath time is this enough as i do not want to overstimulate him either.

[Erin M]

At 3 weeks, don't expect much at all.  At that age feeding, a diaper change, and maybe some looking around is about all you can expect.  He'll start to lengthen it a bit as he gets older, but for now he shouldn't be doing much at all.  Don't worry about holding him, he is way too young to be spoiled.  At this age the best thing you can do is meet his needs.

[kim&savannah]

At that age, neither of my kids wanted to be put down during awake time.  And they only stayed awake for a very short time--not much more than time to feed and change them and then maybe have a short little talk.

Remember, your lo went from being snuggled in you 24 hours a day to this huge, open world--that can be pretty overwhelming for them.  Just snuggle them and as he gets older and stays awake a little longer, you can try putting him down more and lengthening the time.  I can already see a huge difference in my DS's ability to "entertain" himself now compared to just a couple months ago and my DD is pretty independent--so neither one of them was spoiled by lots of snuggles and holding when babies.

~Kim

[nenee]

   thank you for your advice, i think deep down i knew i could not spoil my little one at this age, i think iv listened too much to family friends giving me their advice and got so confused i didnt listen to my own  gut instinct! its good that other mums can help out thank u, il carry on withlots of cuddles an d let him sleep when hes ready and play when hes ready 

[Erin M]

Sounds like you're doing a great job

[nenee]

I am trying to do a good job but unfortunately we had bad news today hes got a reflux problem and has been put on gaviscon to start with as he has been in terible pain and having difficulties eating where he chokes and is sick.  Its been very stressful to say the least and has left me feeling very useless and tearful, as the thought of him having to put up with this for many months is not a happy thought! Theres nothing worse seeing your little one screaming in pain and theres nothing i can do.  I just hope the doctors can help him with pain relief until he rides it threw!

[Erin M]

Hang in there!  Check out the colic, reflux, and crying forum if you haven't already as the ladies there have a wealth of knowledge in this area.  There are lots of ladies on the boards who have been through this and will help you out. 

[nenee]

thank u I will do that today.  I am so glad I baught tracys book when I first got pregnant without it I would be lost and not have the support from mums like you on this valuable website it makes a big difference! thank you