#asktheexpert she is very naught she didn't obey his parents

Question

Accepted Answer

It's completely normal for babies, especially at 11 months, to display behaviors like curiosity, stubbornness, or even defiance as they explore their independence and develop their own preferences. At this age, babies are still learning how to communicate and understand rules, and their behavior is often driven by exploration and testing boundaries.

Here are a few tips to manage your baby's behavior and help her learn to follow instructions:

1. Establish a Routine

Babies thrive on routine and consistency. Having a set routine helps them understand expectations. If your baby knows what happens next (like meal times, naps, playtime), she will feel more secure and less likely to act out.

2. Be Patient

At 11 months, your baby is still very young and figuring out the world around her. Patience is key when responding to her behavior. She is likely testing boundaries, but she may not fully understand the consequences yet.

3. Use Simple and Clear Commands

Use short, clear instructions like “no touch,” “sit down,” or “give it to me” in a calm, firm voice. Babies at this stage are starting to understand simple words, and consistency is important.

4. Positive Reinforcement

Praise and encourage positive behavior. When your baby listens or follows directions, offer praise such as "Good job!" or "Well done!" Positive reinforcement helps her learn which behaviors are desirable.

5. Set Boundaries and Offer Choices

While setting boundaries is essential, giving your baby choices can make her feel more in control. For example, you can say, "Do you want the red ball or the blue ball?" instead of simply telling her what to do.

6. Redirect Attention

If your baby is engaging in behavior you don’t want, redirect her attention to something else. For example, if she's grabbing something she shouldn't, offer her a toy or activity that is safe and engaging.

7. Lead by Example

Babies often imitate what they see. Model the behavior you want her to learn. For example, if you want her to clean up her toys, demonstrate doing it yourself.

8. Keep Safety in Mind

Babies at this age are very curious and explore everything. It's important to ensure that your environment is safe so that your child can explore freely but within safe boundaries. Use baby-proofing techniques for your home.

9. Consistent Discipline

While it's important to be gentle and understanding, it's also vital to remain consistent. If a behavior is not acceptable, calmly let her know. For example, if she’s touching something dangerous, gently say "no" and guide her away from it.

10. Stay Calm

If your baby is not listening or acting out, try to stay calm. Babies can pick up on your emotions, so maintaining a calm, composed demeanor will help her feel secure and more likely to respond to your instructions.

11. Remember Developmental Stage

Keep in mind that at 11 months, your baby is still in the early stages of development. It's normal for them to be curious, restless, and sometimes non-compliant. Their brains are developing rapidly, and they are learning about their environment and social interactions.

If you remain patient, consistent, and nurturing, your baby will gradually learn to understand boundaries and improve her behavior over time.