Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Comparing Is Freaking Me Out!

R.J. Colton

I know, I know, EVERYONE with more than one child has told me that each child is different, but I cannot stop comparing milestones between my first son, R.J. and my second son, Colton.

Heck, I even compare Colton to other babies his age and I'm driving myself nuts!

Colton is 7 months and he's just now (almost completely) sitting unassisted...I mean, I can let go of him and he balances for awhile, but then BOOM he topples to the side (which he loves of course and laughs every time he does so), but he's tipping over nonetheless.

Shoot, by this time, R.J. was already pulling up on stuff to stand and by 10 months he was walking!

Colton isn't really into completely rolling over either (although this past weekend he did roll from his back to his tummy more than once). Usually, he rolls to one side and the other and grabs stuff, but as far as the complete deal consistently...nope.

I don't know if this has to do with the fact that he's always been a tummy sleeper (no flamers please) or that he just doesn't think that trick is all that fantastic?!

My pediatrician was not even the least bit concerned when I mentioned the rolling over thing to her at his 6 month appointment (his weight is good, height is good, hearing/eyesight/verbal good, head control good, using hands is good, etc.) so what am I worried about?

I read all over the place about other babes born in June 2010 doing all sorts of stuff and honestly, it freaks me out that Colton seems (to me) behind on some things.

Okay, he was born almost 4 weeks early, but would that even make a difference?

Then again, on other things he's been ahead of my first born.

Colton got two teeth by 5 months, started solids (and has continued) at 4 1/2 to 5 months, raised himself/propped himself up on arms/hands at 3 months, has had no problems sleeping through the night, etc.

I don't want to seem as if I am trying to "rush" my sweet little boy into growing up too fast, and after all, this is my last baby, but when is he going to get with the program with some of these things? LOL!

Seriously, my paranoia over all this last week had me in tears and my husband told me I was worrying for nothing.

Even our doctor is not the least bit concerned with things, so why am I?

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hey Tracey,

I am a firm believer that "Moms always know!!" So if, in your gut, you feel like something might be up with Colton, get a second opinion. If you are naturally a worrier and this worked as a topic for your blog, then listen to your husband! :) Seriously, if you wrote to reach out because you know your children best and you can't get rid of that nagging "something is not right" feeling, get a second opinion. My story is a worst case scenario - but for months I kept telling my pediatrician something was wrong with my son because he was not meeting milestones and was definitely physically slower than my first child. He kept telling me all kids are different, he has a big head (I swear, he said that!!!) he's just a big kid, he has to grow into his body, etc. I became so angry at the way he kept dismissing me as an overworried parent I took my sons records, left and found a doctor who took my concerns seriously and LISTENED!! Turns out my son has Duchenne muscular dystrophy. I am not telling you this to scare you or because I think Colton has a problem. I wanted you to know I relate. (also had fertility issues, miscarriage, etc.) You're a smart woman. If you need another opinion, get one. Go to a developmental specialist. No harm in knowing everything is ok!! The peace of mind is worth the evaluation. Let me know how it goes. Susan Schiavo

Kristen said...

I think its only natural to compare and I agree - it can make you paranoid! I'm still amazed how incredibly different my boys are! I can't stress it enough - DON'T WORRY!! He is just perfectly fine Tracey! Colton actually outdid Dakota on a lot of things but I believe its because Colton was born two weeks later than Dakota. I DO think the being born earlier/later has some impact but really it boils down to them just being two totally different little people. I know with Dakota, I tried to keep him from doing some things too fast because James was away and I didn't want him to miss everything. He took his first steps about a week before his first birthday and Colton was up and ready to go well before that. (If I remember correctly...geez, how do I forget stuff so easily?!) Speaking of which, this will all just be a distant memory when he's running around your house getting into to everything! It wont be long!! : )
I think most people are backwards from what we did...they usually highly encourage their first to do everything quickly and their second, they're more relaxed and just let them figure it out. So we are an exception but I definitely would have worked with Dakota more if James had been home to see it all. Can you tell a big difference in their personalities yet? For my boys, Dakota was Mr GO-Go-Go, energy bursting out at the seams. He's very social and dives head first into everything! Colton on the other hand, is much more reserved and a little shy. He's still an energetic toddler, but his personality is miles different than Dakota's. That could be part of it too! I'm sure your Colton will eventually want to participate more and I have a feeling, when he does start moving it'll happen fast! Chin up mama! I'm sure not feeling good for a while slowed him down a little too. He'll get going and I bet it wont be long before you're posting videos of him walking/running, etc! (((Hugs!!))) & Love, Kristen : )

Kristen said...

P.S. Side note: I do agree with Susan, if you really feel that nagging mommy instinct that something isn't right, it never hurts to get a second opinion. I have a feeling Mr Colton is just fine and dandy but mommy's DO know best! : )

I Thought I Knew Mama said...

Hi! Jac doesn't really roll either, and it's hard not to compare to what other babies are doing on our FF board, but mamas always know best, and I know my little man is healthy and strong ;-) My ped wasn't concerned at the last appt either. I'm your newest follower!

Tracey said...

Thanks ladies! And no, I didn't post this just as a blog topic, I seriously did want to hear feedback. I wouldn't classify myself as a "worrier"...I am usually always looking on the optimistic/bright side of everything. And with this I am not saying I am automatically assuming doom and gloom, but I guess that since everything prior to and even during this pregnancy had me worrying about things I suppose it's only natural that I am continuing to worry. I too am a firm believer about listening to one's instincts, but sometimes it's good to reach out and see what others think/have gone through/can advise, etc. Trust me, if my gut starts overriding my worry, I will not hesitate to go further. In the meantime, I really appreciate folks taking the time to comment and offer their stories as well. ~Tracey

Lorrie S said...

Tracey,

I don't have really anything to contribute from experience or whatnot, but after reading the other posts I agree with all. Colton I'm sure is fine, but a second opinion (if the instinct that something isn't right continues to eat at you) is the way to go.

Now on comparisom can I say....OMG! Those pics are like looking at twins! What handsome boys you have there my friend! So, so adorable. <3

Love ya and those southern bebe's! hehe

xx

Lorrie