What to do with a non-compliant 10 month old

[ALittleBitOfMagic]

I'm knackered !! He won't tolerate getting ready, getting nappy changed, getting washed. Anything I have to do to him really . He climbs up the sofa, crawls away, does that thing where they put their hands up and arch their back so the fall through to the ground. He is so much hard work !! I've just got a big blob off poo on my mums sofa !! Whoops !!

He won't sit in his highchair or pram or play pen . He just wants to be crawling about getting into things he's not allowed .

I really need some advice on

A) things to keep him occupied and things I can do with him to use up all his energy (he is crawling but not walking yet)

B) how to make getting him ready/nappy changed etc a bit easier

I feel so embarrassed dd was so easy going I can't believe I'm on my second and can't cope

I'm not sure that I have any great advice, but I just wanted to say that you are not alone! My 10 month old is exactly the same. The only thing that helps with nappy changing is giving her something to hold and chew; distraction is the key haha! This has worked so far :)

No real advice but lots of sympathy! My 9mo DS sounds just like yours. He is a little monkey, totally hyper, doesn't stop getting into mischief all day, hates nappy change and getting dressed. I look at other mums with placid little babies who just chill out and peacefully play with a toy for 20 mins and wonder why my baby is a total mentaller...!

I take him swimming once a week (cheap class at council leisure centre) and that totally knackers him out. Even the swimming teacher makes comments about what a handful he is though...! Constantly trying to wriggle out of my arms into the water, kicking like mad and splashing all the smaller babies, etc etc

It is exhausting but I also make sure we get out the house twice a day: once in the morning and then again in the afternoon after his nap. We go to the swings, to feed the ducks, to the supermarket for a ride in the trolley, to Rhyme Time at the library, to church baby groups etc etc...the less time we spend in the house, the less mischief he can cause! And my DS seems less grumpy the more we get out and about.

Thanks for the replies its good to know I'm not alone !! I'm currently sitting beside his coy while he rolls about refusing to go to sleep

You have my sympathy too! Definitely agree as above that the more active and social you can be, the more he will be able to release energy and possibly frustration that is built up from knowing what he wants to do / say but not being able to. Kids will learn from each other what is acceptable as well as from you. Couple of questions (out of interest not criticism)...

1. is he a good sleeper, most importantly is he able to switch off and relax? A friend of mine has a boy who sounds v similar and he has never had a good sleep routine and over tiredness can have a v disruptive effect on kids. The relaxing bit is something worth focusing on (music, cuddles to sleep, whatever it takes) .. Anything to get him to switch his mind off for a while!

2. what do you do when he wriggles at nappy change for example? Does it upset you or do you ignore him until he's finished? Might be worth employing some toddler tactics!

Finally you asked about keeping him occupied pre walking, I'm no expert but there's lots you can do with music and actions, immitating, also more arts stuff like sticking, scribbling etc, and plenty with balls like rolling etc. If I ever want DS to concentrate on anything though... I have to remove all other distractions... Preferably into another room!

Good luck, I'm sure you'll find some great advice here xxxx

Get a remote controlled car. I honestly think it is the best 15 quid I've spent (even if it was meant for older sibling). When he starts to get into something he's not meant to, drive the car for a couple of seconds. Instant distraction guaranteed. Obviously, its not made for babies so don't leave him alone with it and I'm not saying that the car should be the only thing you do with your baby, but for wine cup of tea time it is perfect.

Baby walker? dd is a ball of energy and loves hers, I can put her in it while I sort other stuff out. (not recommended to use it too much but great for the times you really need it).

loving the car suggestion. Early learning centre does push and go toys that will run across the floor by themselves if pressed, might be worth a try?

I agree with getting out as much as poss - dd is much better behaved for meals in cafes than at home as she has lots to look at.