What happened to my happy baby?

I'm not sure what is going on, and it is strange that it's such a sudden change. My kids are 3 and almost 2, and they have gone through different phases, but the fact that the baby isn't even content when you're holding him is interesting. I would recommend seeing your doctor just to rule out an ear infection or other form of discomfort. Otherwise, just try hard to stay calm (which can be difficult) because your frustration will only fuel the fire. If nothing is wrong physically with your little guy, it's probably just a phase. Hang it there, it will get better.

Hobbymommy, 38, is a discussion leader from Mesa. She is a happy stay-at-home mommy to a 3-year-old daughter and a 2-year-old son.

I think that is around the time my daughter started having tantrums. When they are hungry, or tired, or bored and want to do something else, they get fussy, and then have tantrums because they don't know how to handle their emotions. I put my daughter in the corner when she has a tantrum not because she's bad nesasarily, but because she needs a "time out" she quits crying after about a minute, and then I say are you ok? She says yes, and then we have a kiss and a hug, and go do somethng else. My daughter is 1 and a half. Sometimes they also go through these growth spurts where they are tired more than usual, and when they get tired they can get grumpy. Hang in there, it's tough, but you'll figure it out. I find that if she gets fussy at night it's because she's tired, and I mention the word bath and the tears are gone, and she's halfway up the stairs. If it's during the day they maybe hungry, or tired, or bored. Sometimes I'll take my daughter outside to go look at something and then she forgets why she is mad. I hope it works out for you.

Lisa - Mom to her spunky little Scarlette

Even if you can't see teeth, they can be moving around in there and causing discomfort. My littlest one was just delightful, and when he started teething, he was a miserable little guy for about a month, and we barely even saw a tooth the whole time. Still, I agree with the above post, take him to the ped and have him checked out.

Susan is mom to Alexander, Isabel, David and stepmom to Eric. She does community outreach for arizonamoms. Be sure to enter the Back-to-School $1000 Giveaway every day July 4-31!

I'd call your pediatrician. Are you concerned about his development, too, or just the sudden change in behavior?

Arizona Moms Editor Yvette Armendariz shares stories about raising her kids and tips for busy parents in her Time-starved (goddess) Mom blog. She and her husband are raising two children, ages 8 and 11.

I agree with the other moms. Take him to the Ped.

You know what he could be teething totally. My daughter has been trying to get her "eye" teeth in for months very painful. I think my daughter was around one when she started getting her molars in (extremely painful blunt teeth) He might not want to eat if it hurts, and if he's feeling needy which it sounds like he may not be feeling good. Is he congested or drooling a lot? Chewing on things? Bad diapers? If a fever develops then your little one could be getting sick, but if it's teething then there are homeopathic teething drops out there you could try that I get myself. Walgreens has them and most grocery stores also. Also target has some. There are Highlands teething pills (dissolve immediately no choking promise), and target has a kind that we really like by disney that has pooh characters on it (liquid). I find when my daughters teeth are hurting she'll point up where I keep the stuff so it has to help in someways. If after a while that doesn't work a little tyelenol could help also. My daughter hated oragel. Cried as soon as I got the tube out because she remembers how terrible it was.

Lisa - Mom to her spunky little Scarlette

i would also take him to see the pediatrician. I would also explain the situation in detail and mention the changes you've noticed. At a year old, my daughter started getting frustrated when she couldn't do something. It could also very well be his teeth.

I know every child is different and i too am a SAHM, but my daughter does not cry when i leave the room or leave her with her grandparents - which i've only done twice in the last 18 months. (She is only 18 months)

just~me

Sounds like pain to me. At least for mine, the tantrums are more of a slow burn and this seems to be a lot of quick flashes.

Does he have any molars? Molars hurt much more than front teeth. Or for that matter, does he have any teeth. Stick your finger in his mouth and feel around in there, see what you can find.

If you're pretty sure it's not teeth, does he have a drippy nose or has he been tugging at his ears. I'm thinking ear and/or sinus infection. Have him looked at by the pediatrician.

Hi, I'm new here. Just want to chine in that it does sound like pain - but it might not be teething. You mentioned it's when there is food involved...has he had any food allergy testing? Kind of sounds like a possible allergy. Not saying it's for sure that, but it's something to look into.

elyse

When babies cry, there is a reason. I would not personally recommend putting the baby in their crib and leaving them there....that will probably just bring insecurity to your baby, babies need to be comforted and know you are gonna be there to console them even if it seems impossible. Have you tried taking him outside, whenever my 8 month old gets cranky I take her outside ...the change of scenery always seems to cheer her up.....she bores very easily. Also of course like everyone else said, consult your pediatrician to rule out any medical issues.

Thank you so much for all the input. You may be onto something about the teeth-he hasn't cut a new tooth in over 4mo. Maybe it's his time again.
He has his 1yr coming up soon, I think I'll just wait until then. I think I also have to agree that I probably need to be more proactive in changing his scenery. I try to change what he plays with, but not necessarily 'where' he plays.
Praise the Lord he's still sleeping through the night. No matter what my day's like, at least I can get my sleep at night.
Once again, you guys have come through with wonderful thoughts!
My poor dr...I have so much to discuss this next appt. :)

My first thought is an ear infection or fluid in the ears - my youngest has had both and he has major changes in personality and appetite each time.
Definately go to the ped.
Assuming that everything is OK medically, remember that this too shall pass!

Susie is a discussion leader in the east valley for arizonamoms.com. She has two sons, ages 6 and 2.

Like everyone else, my first thought is pain and I'd go to the pediatrician.

If that's not it, One is about the time they start to get opinionated. My youngest just turned one. She's always been super easy going, but is now starting to get quite vocal about what she likes and dislikes. At this age they are also starting to become more independent and can be frustrated. Sometimes an extra hug or cuddle is needed. I know that's easier said than done during a tantrum, but it may be just what he needs.