Parenting Tips for New Caregivers
By Lucy Harper
Updated: May 6, 2021
Originally Published: Dec. 23, 2020
As my pregnancy approached the final trimester, my partner and I enrolled in a baby basics class. This was during a time when in-person classes were still a thing! Being the youngest in my family, I lacked experience with infants and had no clue how to hold one. I barely understood how to change a diaper—wasn’t there something about clothespins? The thought of cradling a newborn felt intimidating, especially with all the talk about their delicate soft spots on their heads.
Newborns can often feel as fragile as glass or perhaps even a grenade. While they’re undeniably adorable, holding them entails a significant sense of responsibility. If you’re anything like me, you might break something (or two) weekly, so trusting yourself to hold a baby can feel daunting. It’s common for new parents to feel that only the baby’s mother is truly qualified to hold them. But the truth is, the joy of holding a baby—their sweet scent, softness, and gaze—makes it an experience worth embracing. And remember, practice can help build your confidence! Whether you’re a soon-to-be mom or a nervous aunt, keep reading for essential tips on holding a baby properly.
If you’re interested in more baby-related content, check out our pages on bonding with your baby, understanding bow-legged babies, baby bouncers, and more.
Proper Techniques for Holding a Baby
While holding a baby may seem straightforward, it can be a nerve-wracking task if you’re not accustomed to it. Here are some key insights to help you feel more assured.
1. Clean Your Hands
Start by washing your hands thoroughly. It’s essential to minimize the risk of illness for newborns, so make sure anyone who wants to hold the baby does the same. Hand sanitizer is helpful, but soap and water work just as well. This is particularly important for anyone who smokes, as thirdhand smoke can be harmful to your little one. Don’t hesitate to ask them to change clothes and smoke outside.
2. Sit for Added Support
If you’re feeling unsure, find a comfortable chair to sit in. Sitting down can help you feel more secure when learning how to hold a newborn. Being on your feet can increase anxiety, so make yourself comfortable.
3. Support the Head and Neck
Unlike adults, newborns can’t lift their heads yet, making head and neck support crucial. Their “soft spots,” or fontanels, allow for skull growth and shape adjustment during birth. While it’s important to be gentle, new parents shouldn’t be overly fearful about these areas. As you gain experience, your confidence will grow, especially since younger newborns are less squirmy than older infants.
4. Try the Shoulder Hold
Holding the baby against your shoulder can be a good starting position. It allows you to support their neck and bottom while also giving the baby comfort as they hear your heartbeat.
5. Explore Different Positions
If you plan on breastfeeding, you’ll learn various positions that aid in feeding. The football hold, where you cradle the baby horizontally while supporting their head and neck, is popular among breastfeeding moms but can be used by anyone.
6. Ensure Comfort and Affection
Always watch for signs of discomfort while holding the baby. Newborns typically sleep around 16 hours a day, so if they’re dozing off in your arms, it’s best not to disturb them. Enjoying those quiet moments can strengthen your bond.
How to Lift a Baby
When picking up a baby, use similar techniques to holding them. Since their head is the heaviest part of their body, support it well. Start by placing one hand under their head and the other under their bottom. Gently lift and cradle them close to your body. As long as you’re supporting their head and neck, you’re off to a great start.
The Benefits of Holding a Baby
Believe it or not, cuddling your little one has immense benefits. It can help reduce maternal stress and provide comfort to both you and the baby. Skin-to-skin contact helps regulate a newborn’s body temperature and can ease discomfort if they’re in pain.
Quotes About Holding a Baby
Holding a baby evokes a whirlwind of emotions. Here are a few quotes that capture the essence of this heartwarming experience:
- “This is a place where grandmothers hold babies on their laps, under the stars, and whisper in their ears that the lights in the sky are holes in the floor of heaven.” — Sarah Lee
- “Holding a baby in your arms is one of life’s greatest pleasures.” — Unknown
- “For all the things my hands have held, the best by far is you.” — Unknown
- “I hold my whole world in my arms every time I hold my baby.” — Unknown
- “I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” — Isaiah 46:4
Best Practices for Baby Positioning
Knowing how to lay a baby down is just as vital as holding them. Infants aren’t ready for sitting positions and should avoid being propped up until they start crawling. Sitting babies too early can negatively impact their spinal development. Placing them on their stomachs is beneficial for building their muscles through tummy time.
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Summary
Holding a baby can be intimidating for many new parents and caregivers, but with practice and the right techniques, it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences. By focusing on proper support, comfort, and care, you can confidently embrace this special bonding time.