6 Month old daughter seems indifferent towards me...normal?

Question

I've been home with my daughter for the past 6 months (since she was born). Whenever my husband comes home, she sees grandma or grandpa, our dogs, even strangers, she smiles soooo big. When my husband gets home from work, she gets so excited she squeaks and hides her face. I've nebver really been away from her.

Well, Tuesday, I went back to work. I picked her up from my mom's, and nothing. She glanced at me a few times, but that's about it. During the same time, she looked over at my mom or dad and smiled super big.

Wednesday, she went to day care. She was sleeping when I got there and I woke her up. Nothing. A few glances, certainly no smiles. She did, however, smile at the staff as we left.

Today she was at my mom's again. NOTHING again. Smiling at my dad, glances at me, that's about it.

THinking back, she never seemed to miss me on those few occasions when I was gone.

This is absolutely heartbreaking. I'm not concerned about anything developmental because she's fine with everyone else. Why doesn't she miss me? Why isn't she happy to see me? Please tell me you can relate. I cry about it because I feel like maybe she hasn't bonded with me, but I've been home with her for her whole life.

Answer 1

Gosh your question reminds me so much of my friend a few months ago.  She had a little bit of a different scenerio because her family traded off watching her daughter while my friend was at work. Eventually her daughter started showing signs of missing her and excitement at her presence. Is this your first child? I didn't have these problems with my two I had the opposite but I exclusively nurse until they are over a yr old. Do you nurse her? That is always a real bonding tool but it isn't the only thing. It is really great that you have stayed home with her.  She may just be soo used to you that she takes you for granted. I am so sorry this has been so hard on you but I strongly feel that it will not last forever.  It might just take longer doses of being separated from you for it to be noticable of how much she misses you.  But, like I said my friend had the same thing and was so upset by it and things totally turned around after her baby was a little over a yr old and now she doesn't want anybody BUT her mommy well and gramma, they always want their gramma (the spoiler) as I call her.  The more upset you allow yourself to get over it the more tense you will be around her and it will make things worse.  Be natural with her and try not to take it personally. I know it's hard but be strong. You know she loves you!! :)

Answer 2

Some do this, my son did and his son did. They seem to suddenly click into you at about 9 months or so. I think they are just used to us being there all the time then put on a big show for everyone else.

Don't worry your time will come.

Answer 3

aww, talk to her about ittt =/ ?

Answer 4

When you were home she was used to seeing you all the time and Dad and family were like fun visitors. Now I bet she is a bit angry with you for leaving her. My son did this when I was in the hospital and we were separated. He hurt my feelings so much and it went on for a few days. I remember how upset I was and he is now 30 !

Wait a few days and see if she gets better with time. Don't be sad Mom. I think it will pass.

Answer 5

Its normal. Sadly our children take us for granted (sob!) as you are the one that is "always there" My daughter still does it now at 2 years... get used to it. She will miss you she just doesn't know how to show it, my daughter does say it occasionally. Try not to worry

Answer 6

my daughter is the same but when we're home together she always has loads of big smiles and giggles for me. When i leave her with anybody and pick her up she doesnt even look at me but when my partner comes home from work she goes crazy with excitement but im not worried as i get the best smiles when we're alone. also most babies go through separation anxiety when she'll be stuck to you like glue and you'll wonder why you were ever upset....i know how you feel but try not to get too upset, shes still very young, she'll be able to express her love better when shes a little older