

And because your baby’s temperament is real and directly affects you and the rest of the family, it’s important to understand her as completely as possible. But in the long run, adapting to her natural personality is best for both of you. You won’t necessarily find all of their personal characteristics enjoyable all the time-especially not when your determined six-month-old is screaming in frustration as she lunges for the family cat.

Their unique character traits include their activity levels, their persistence, and their adaptability to the world around them-and these traits will become increasingly apparent during these months. Just as infants come in different sizes and shapes, their temperaments differ as well. Is she rambunctious or gentle? Easygoing or easily upset? Headstrong or compliant? To a large extent, these are inborn character traits. The more subtle aspects of your baby’s personality are determined largely by her constitutional makeup or temperament. While she’ll quickly get bored with even the most engaging toy, she’ll never tire of your attention. Once you’ve come to her rescue, she’ll probably forget what she was doing and concentrate on you-smiling, laughing, babbling, and imitating you for many minutes at a stretch. She’ll be eager to reach out and touch everything she sees, and if she can’t manage on her own, she’ll demand your help by yelling, banging, or dropping the nearest object at hand. But as she learns to sit up, use her hands, and move about, she’s likely to become increasingly assertive and more attentive to the world outside. At the beginning of this period, she may seem relatively passive and preoccupied with getting enough food, sleep, and affection. Between four and seven months, your baby may undergo a dramatic change in personality.
