What is the best way to control a crying or sleepless child when in a public area?
The coos and babbles of a baby can be so sweet. Sometimes even the tiny whimpers and scrunchy-faced cries can be cute for a moment. But when babies and children begin to take their emotion to a whole new level with steady tears paired with high octave screams or constant bubbles and babbling, the novelty begins to fade. No parent can expect a child or infant not to be such but when it occurs in a public place where it can distract others such as church, a library or intimate restaurant, what should they do? Do you feel mothers/fathers should automatically get up and take their child out as to not disrupt others? What about on plane rides and long term situations in close quarters without the option to dismiss? Some have used or advise a mild sleep aid such as cough syrup. Do you agree or disagree with this method?
Well, this is a difficult topic. I can remember being on the other side of the coin in the since that I didn't have kids and I used to look at those parents with disgust. After having children of my own, I realize that public situations happen all the time. I think it's the way that you handle it. For example, most children who are toddlers and up have a tendancy to want everything they see in the store. Most parents are afraid to discipline or be stern in public so they "sweet" talk the child. "No honey, let's not touch that" or "put that away okay" Trust me when I say kids are smart and they know when and when they are not able to get away with things. My children to this day know when they can get away with certain things. So I believe that you should have a demeanor or certain verbage that you use to let your child know you are not playing the radio. This will allow you to maintain and keep your composure as to still appeal to the public as well as making sure your child is not out of control. It also not a good habit to yell at your child either like "sit yo ass down before I knock you out". This does nothing, but promote shouting is acceptable and aggression. If your child is an infant I would agreee to take the child out of the atmosphere until he/she is more calm. The last thing you want is staring eyes with looks of being disturbed.
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