The thought of holding a baby can be scary, especially if you don't have any experience. But overall, babies are more sturdy than they look, so as long as you remember a few key points, you needn't worry. If you're getting ready to deliver or see your newborn baby for the first time and you've never held a baby before, read on to learn how to hold a newborn baby, so when the time comes, you'll be a complete pro!
Newborn baby basics
How to lay down newborn without waking them
Holding a baby can be calming and you may sometimes feel as though you want to hold them all day. At some point, however, you've got to tend to your own needs. Your baby's needs should not come at the detriment of your own. So, can you hold a newborn too much?
"Parents who are practicing the specific principles of attachment parenting should monitor their own well-being since there is such an emphasis on parents and babies being physically close," Dr. Emily Edlynn told Good Housekeeping.
"If sleeping closely and nursing are causing more sleep-deprivation and stress for a mother, there is a risk for depression and anxiety that can then interfere with the bonding process. Modify or moderate the attachment parenting practices if it helps you be an emotionally healthier parent," Edlynn continued.
When you're ready to lay your baby down comfortably or if they've fallen asleep and you don't want to wake them up, try the following method. (Make sure your baby is sound asleep.)
- Start off by gradually creating some distance between the two of you. If your baby has been resting against your warm and cozy body, move them away a little; if they stay asleep after a few seconds, your chances of transferring to the crib or bassinette, still sleeping, are good.
- Gently lower your baby to the sleeping area, hover a bit, and slowly lower them down. Rather than one quick fell swoop, laying baby down is a slow transition that should be done in small stages.
- Slowly and gently remove your hands and fingers from underneath baby, again probably best done in small steps. Slowly and quietly back away from the crib or bassinette.
The challenge now will be getting yourself out of the room without stepping on a squeaky toy, the cat's tail, or a creaking floorboard!
