How to Safely Hold Your Newborn

Holding a newborn safely is essential for their comfort and protection.

Here are some guidelines to help you HOLD your precious newborn baby properly:

1. Wash Your Hands

Always wash your hands before holding your baby. Newborns have weak immune systems, and clean hands can help prevent infections.

2. Support the Head and Neck

A newborn’s neck muscles are underdeveloped, so they cannot support their head. Use one hand to gently cradle their head and neck, while the other supports their bottom.

3. Choose a Comfortable Holding Position

There are several ways to hold a newborn, all of which require head and neck support:

• Cradle Hold:
  • Lay the baby horizontally across your chest, with their head resting in the crook of your arm. Your other hand should support their bottom.
• Upright or Shoulder Hold:
  • Hold your baby against your chest with their head resting on your shoulder. Use one hand to support their bottom and the other to gently support the back of their head.
• Football Hold:
  • Tuck the baby under your arm, with their head in your hand and their body supported by your forearm. This is especially useful during breastfeeding.

4. Keep the Baby Close to Your Body

Hold the baby snugly against your chest. This helps the Little One feel secure and reduces the risk of accidental slipping or dropping.

5. Be Aware of Baby’s Breathing

Make sure their head isn’t pressed too tightly into your chest or shoulder, which could obstruct breathing.

6. Avoid Shaking the Baby

Never shake a newborn. Even gentle bouncing or shaking can cause serious injury to their brain, known as Shaken Baby Syndrome.

7. Stay Calm and Relaxed

Babies can sense stress. ***   Staying calm helps create a more comfortable environment for both you and your baby.

These tips ensure you handle your baby with the care and safety they need. Would you like to know more about a specific holding position?