I don't know what to do with my 10 week old?

[Mughain]

He's awake most of the day and rarely wants to be put down. But he's constantly squirming, as if he wants to go places or do something. He's also got reflux so is up on my shoulder for half an hour after each feed, and since he breastfeeds so frequently, he's up there for seemingly most of the day - staring over my shoulder. And on the rare occasion I do get to put him down, he's not interested in toys, and doesn't care to be read to. He's occasionally happy to mimic my expressions, smile and vocalise, but not for long.

He cries a lot and I think it's due largely to frustration on his part. I know he's only little, but I feel like he's not being stimulated enough. But I honestly don't know what to do with him. I've thought about joining a mum and baby group, but with his reflux and my general insecurity, I'm not really sure it's an option at this point.

Feeling a bit hopeless and isolated, and was wondering if anyone could give me some tips or advice?

Poor you, My little one would just moan constantly when he was little and couldn’t do things. A lot of it does come down to frustration but his reflux is probably not helping at all.

My little one was a horrendous feeder so I only breastfed at home so I get you feeling insecure but Please do not feel insecure about going to a baby group, they’ll either be feeding too or won’t be bothered if you are as they’ve been there, just try and get yourself out and about. Even just try it for half hour.

I used to go for walks a lot especially when the evenings got a bit lighter, just to give me and him a different perspective for the day, it’ll get easier I promise xx

If he needs to be uptight after a feed, have you tried a sling? There may be a sling meet near to you where you can try them out. At least then you could get up and make yourself a drink or go out for a walk.

If you do go to a group, nobody will care two hoots if your baby cries, honestly. My first was an absolute screamer and we went to lots of groups, mainly so that I could get some adult conversation

If you are worried, try a Bfing Support Group first. You’ll get a usually and you’ll get to meet other local Mums and Mums-to-Be near to you.

I have been there with the reflux and the feel I am just tied to a baby and not able to do anything.

A sling is a godsend, it gives you space and freedom. At a baby group nobody will blink an eye if you feed and you will find lots of other mums in the same situation.

Have you checked with a bf councellor? It may be worth checking your hold/latch. Also, have you checked your own diet? I was unable to drink fizzy drinks, caffein, most juices, eat any dairy and DD also didn't like me eating spicy food. As soon as I adjusted my diet we made lots of progress with the reflux. It didn't go away until she was over 6 months but it improved a lot.

If you need a break get some decent music or audiobooks on your phone/music player. Headphones on, baby on your chest, close your eyes and try to relax. That was the only thing which got me through the witching hour.

*upright