Your baby is mobile. She is aware of her surroundings. She has learned what is familiar-her family, her home and her toys. She also knows what is unfamiliar-a stranger, a sudden siren or a loud bark.
Give your baby comfort and reassurance. Say "Mari, what a loud noise. It's a fire engine. The noise tells people to get out of the way. I'm sorry it scared you. Let's hug until you feel better."
Your baby may be afraid of strangers. This is normal. It is called "stranger anxiety." This fear begins when your baby notices the differences among people. This is a big step in development. It means your baby is learning about her world and the people in it.
Some babies fuss, hide or cry when they are with unfamiliar people. When you visit a new place, give your baby time to adjust. Hold your baby and let her look around. Talk in a calm, soothing voice. Warn relatives and friends to go slowly. Let your baby make the first move. Your baby will relax before long. Sometimes her curiosity will overcome her shyness. She'll crawl out of your lap to explore something new.
Your fears
Try not to share your own fears with your baby. For example, if lightning and thunder scare you, talk about the storm with your baby. Watch the lightning in the sky. Count the time between the lightning and the thunder. If you know that the thunder is coming, it can seem less scary.
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