I was reminded just a few days ago that babies, just like humans, have preferences and these preferences can be based on their mood for the day, or even just in the moment. My son and I have a great relationship and bond. Even though he is just shy of eight months at the time of this writing, his smile, excitement, comfort level, and other factors show how much he loves us. You will have the same clues with your kiddo too. Some of the new dads probably already noticed them. It’s amazing watching kids grow and become their own person. It’s even more amazing watching them recognize you more and more and give you that heart-warming smile when you walk into the room.

One thing you will notice is that your baby will like certain foods, toys, shows, and people, etc. On some days, they will prefer one thing over another. For instance, they may want to eat sweet potatoes one day, and oatmeal the next. Hey, they’re just like us! Another thing is, there will be days where your baby can’t get enough of you. They will want you to hold them and be in their presence constantly. If you aren’t, they will voice their disapproval, even if they can’t speak yet. However, there will be others days where they want to be left alone, or even go to another person. Believe it, or not, no matter how strong your bond is with the kiddo, there will be occasions where they want to be held by someone else, or nobody at all.

On most days, my son loves being held by me and will easily fall asleep on my chest. A few nights ago, he was anxious, energetic, and looking around constantly for something, or someone. I couldn’t figure out why he was so wide awake, even though it was past his usual bedtime. I realized that he was searching for my wife, his mommy, and had his eyes locked on her when she walked into the room. When she laid down, our son crawled towards her immediately, and within minutes, was sound asleep. At first, I was a little bothered, saying to myself, “Why doesn’t he want to be near me?” However, I slowly realized that he needed mommy in this moment. He wanted her touch and to be in her presence. Some nights, our son wants to be with me, others, he wants mommy. Many nights, it doesn’t matter who, as long as one of us is there.

My point is, never take this personally. Your kiddo will have their preferences on certain days and their moods change, just like ours do. Cherish the moments when your kids can’t get enough of you, and understand the moments when they need some space.