Discipline

We have a wonderful and healthy seven month old boy. He has not  exhibited any unusual behaviors. During the first few months when he needed something he would give us a little cry, nothing loud or long. Just a peep. We would then change his diaper, feed him or just hold him. But lately he has been crying for nothing more than attention. We have tended to all of his needs but he has become so much more demanding of time. He has many toys, a swing, and Johnny-Jump-up. Whenever he gets "bored" of these toys or his surroundings, he cries. We have been tending to the boy, but he seems to be very spoiled. We have heard that in the first months of life that your baby builds a trust relationship with you, but when do you start some type of discipline? We have seen children that are out-of-control by 1 or 2 years old, this is not what we want for our son.
  Thanks first-timers!

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Brent,

Don't worry about attending to your son. Attention is (next to meeting physical needs) the most important ingredient in a child's early months. The only need for 'discipline' involves setting reasonable limits and insuring safety in relation to creeping, crawling, etc. Is he having adequate opportunity to be out of his playpen and 'exploring'? While you obviously can't be engaged with him every minute of his waking hours, take the opportunity as much as you can to enjoy him and interact - it will create a wonderful foundation. He's too young for you to expect that he'll amuse himself all the time, in spite of having interesting toys.