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Your baby: 10.5 months

What are you, chopped liver?
Playing favourites already? It happens, even with babies. It's hard to say why kids come to favour one parent over the other. One theory is that they get into a routine of relating to the parent who seems to appear most often when something is needed. Whatever the cause of children's favouritism, the good news is that it doesn't last forever. And they’re fickle about it too, often switching allegiances for no apparent reason. But don't feel guilty if you find yourself envious of your partner's preferred status — it's only natural to feel that way. But your day will come (and probably go again at some point!).
 
Now you see me…
At this point in your baby's development, he is becoming aware of the concept of object permanence — that objects still exist even when they are hidden or out of view. You can help him cement this concept by playing games like "find the missing toy." For example, show your baby a toy and then let him watch you place it under a pillow or a blanket. Chances are he will now be able to remember where the toy is and uncover it (give him a hint if he needs it by uncovering just one corner!). He will also enjoy playing games like peek-a-boo and hide-and-seek, too. Hide behind a chair, then peek out, and let your baby follow you around it. Sooner or later, your baby will begin to imitate you and hide behind the furniture to peek out himself.
 
Good Question! What is a nursing strike?
It’s nothing to do with picket lines or protest signs ― it’s when your baby abruptly refuses to breastfeed. Many women will think it means the baby wants to wean, but often Mom can trace it back to something upsetting during a feeding. (Perhaps Mom yelled because the baby bit down or maybe a sore throat made nursing unexpectedly painful.) Read our top 10 tips to end a nursing strike.
 
The new face of fatherhood
What would you say if we told you that almost half of Canadian fathers say they are just as involved with their children as their partner is? Or that diaper-changing duties are shared equally in their home? That most believe their partners are happy with their level of involvement in child-rearing? And that most dads feel they are just as competent at parenting as their partners are?
 
Tips from the trenches
“My husband and I found if you keep score, it turns into a battle of wills. It doesn’t matter who got up last night — you have to respect when someone is really tired and be there to support each other. Chanting ‘don’t keep score’ helped us keep a good energy.” Jennifer, mom of two
 
Did you know?
Children aged four and under are at the greatest risk for choking. That’s why it’s a good idea to take a first aid or CPR course, so you’ll be prepared. Contact St. John Ambulance to find out where you can take your course.

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