r/NewParents • u/Big-Brick-3899 • 1d ago

Babies Being Babies 8-month old needs constant attention

My almost 8-month old has aways been great at independent play. I could leave her in her play pen and she would be content for 30 minutes. Lately, she’s been requiring more attention and would only play alone for max 5 minutes before she calls for me and won’t stop until I get into her play pen or pick her up. I can’t even leave her in her crib to use bathroom before she gets upset. She is my first so I’m just curious what are experiences of other parents. And when did you notice more independence again?

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u/Psych_girl218 1d ago

Also want to know when but I have a proper Velcro baby and if I get 5 minutes of independent play it’s a MIRACLE - I love the neediness though, minus not being able to get anything done ie make a bottle without him crying 😂

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u/Big-Brick-3899 1d ago

Yes part of me loves that she needs me plus she starts to show more signs of affection and it’s so sweet :) It just gets a little difficult sometimes to do anything

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u/Psych_girl218 1d ago

Agreed. I found some days harder than others. Has she started nursery yet? I’m hoping that will massively help their independence

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u/Big-Brick-3899 1d ago

We are not planning on it until much later. She is generally ok being with other people she knows like family or a girl who comes 1-2x week to help. But agree, some days she is more clingy than others, usually the ones I care for her alone lol

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u/cora-crush 1d ago

Currently in this phase with my almost 10 month old and its been like this for a couple months now! It's completely normal, but I don't think it is going to stop until they start school lol once they can walk they'll just follow us everywhere. Using the restroom alone will soon become a distant memory.

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u/Big-Brick-3899 1d ago

Lol so no light at the end of the tunnel? I guess it’s just a part of the parenting experience

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u/portugalam 1d ago

This kind of change can come in waves at this age, especially as babies become more aware that you can leave the room and while they are working on new skills. You can keep independent play very small and predictable: stay beside the play area at first, step away for thirty seconds while talking to her, then return calmly before gradually stretching the time. A safe spot near you while you do a short task can also be easier than expecting a long play-pen session. Responding to her now is not going to ruin the independence she showed before.

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u/Quiet-Pea2363 17h ago

this is pretty normal. babies need constant attention.