Pregnant and scared of kids!

[Littleen]

Hello guys. I'm 11 weeks pregnant (planned pregnancy, so no surprise as such), but have a problem in that I am actually scared of kids. I absolutely do not want to interact with other peoples kids, as I feel really awkward and scared. It doesn't matter what age the kids are, from newborn to perhaps 15-16, I feel just really awkward. I think many babies and kids are very cute, and I might adore them - but from a distance. my DP has to nephews who are lovely and love hanging out with us, but I can never relax around them or any other kids! I'm really worried about my own child, when the time comes to him/her bringing home friends etc, or my friends having children they want to introduce to me. What do I do!

Don't worry, you don't have to feel comfortable with kids until you have your own - why should you, if you're not used to being around them a lot? I didn't really know how to interact with children until I had my own, then it becomes so much easier. You obviously feel comfortable interacting with your own child, and how to talk to them as they grow and develop, and they bring home kids the same age so you essentially treat them as you would your own - apart from the telling them off for leaving shoes in the middle of the floor etc You'll be fine!

You are not alone...
My own child is perfect in every way (almost) but I still don't really like or 'get' other peoples. Which doesn't matter, as they don't come to my house to see me

Don't worry! I was always, absolutely like this. Actively avoided children and especially babies all my life - DD is 18 months old now. It's totally different. Much, much more natural than you think it will be so relax. I even smile at babies these days. Enjoy it!

I've always loved babies but not so much once they're past the cute newborn stage.

It's totally different with your own child, they're the most beautiful smart amazing children to have ever been born .

I have 4 DCs who I love more than anything but I'm still not a huge fan of other people's children. I don't dislike them I just feel awkward as they're not mine, possibly comes from being an only child and not really having much experience of babies/children before having my own. Always wanted children though I didn't realise how amazing they are when they're part of you.

I can't imagine it affecting my own child, as I do feel affection and stuff for kids I know, and I love animals :P so I think it will be more like "another kitten, just a human kitten" sort of thing. But thanks for all the reassurance! It's probably because I was never allowed to interact/talk to freely my little sister when growing up (9 years younger), as my mother always told me off whatever I said to her, so now I just keep shut to all kids!

Don't worry. They don't break very easily

hehe thanks. It's not the "breaking them" part so much, it's more the "how do I communicate with this creature" thing :p

I totally understand what you mean. I'm a primary teacher and I have no problem communicating with children in that setting at all. But in a social situation with other children I feel a bit unnerved and awkward. I also always think people are thinking, "Oh she's a teacher, she should be good with children!" But it is totally different with my dd. She's mine and I know her through and through, we spend virtually all our time together.

Good luck, I'm sure you'll be fine.

I was quite similar. Little contact with children apart from a friend's two and then DH's niece and nephew were four and two when I first met them. I still feel awkward around friends' toddlers now and don't get all gooey over babies. All I can say is that you just love them and get used to each stage as they grow up.

It's normal to be scared. All a newborn needs in a cuddle, a clean bum and food occasionally. I spent my pregnancy scared about bathing them