Behaviour 0-2

At this stage, you are really just getting to know your new addition and if it’s your first child, it’s quite a learning experience. So if you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to talk to friends, your maternal and child health nurse or your CF team about what’s bothering you.

The first couple of years are the ideal time to set up good expectations and routines in all aspects of life, particularly when it comes to medication and physiotherapy. A child who has ‘always’ done a task is a lot easier to keep on track than one grappling with being introduced to a new set of expectations.

A child who has ‘always’ done a task is a lot easier to keep on track

The bubble wrap ‘trap’

A common difficulty that families run into is feeling that they need to “bubble wrap” their child and do everything for them. Although this is completely understandable, it is important to aim to treat your child as you would any other – creating and maintaining the same boundaries, expectations and developmental milestones that your child’s peers have.

Eventually your child will begin to take responsibility for managing their illness, and to develop into a young adult capable of handling all of life’s demands, including the demands of CF.

It is important to aim to treat your child as you would any other

What about behavioural problems?

Many parents of children with cystic fibrosis report difficulties with behaviour, sleeping and eating. But these are perfectly normal behaviours and your child isn’t more susceptible to developing behavioural problems because of the CF.

However, you and your toddler are often under more pressure than other families, and the increased demands on you both may change the way these common interactions take place – and leave more room for conflict. So set boundaries and be consistent.

Your baby isn’t more susceptible to developing behavioural problems because of the CF

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Setting boundaries

Consistent discipline is usually an excellent way to ensure that your child feels secure. However, it is natural for a toddler to test the limits of these boundaries.

Your child will feel less compelled to test out every situation, every time, by refusing to do as they are told if you remain consistent – whether that’s for having treats or getting physio done.

Discipline also helps teach your child self-control – and, eventually, self-management of their disease. Setting rules at home from an early age establishes order as well as limits.

Discipline also helps teach your child self-control – and, eventually, self-management of their disease.

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