How to Hold a Newborn Baby, According to a Mother of Three

by momorbit Admin

There are few moments in a mother's life that compare to holding a newborn in her arms. One of the most useful child-rearing skills that new parents will learn to perfect is the art of the hold. If you or a loved one is expecting, know that it is natural to feel a bit of apprehension. Perhaps you have a lingering fear in the back of your mind that you might hurt or even drop your baby.

Our goal at Mom Orbit is to help new moms and their loved ones conquer their fears and feel confident about bonding with their little ones. At first glance, it sounds painfully simple- much like brushing your teeth. In reality, holding your baby requires just as much attention to the way you do it.

SNUGGLE HOLD

Great for: the infant who's restless at night

Difficulty level: Easy

  1. Clean your hands. Just wash them the traditional way to get rid of any dust or allergens that might irritate your baby. Don't bother with alcohol-free sanitizer or wipes unless a bathroom is out of reach. Using hand sanitizer, while better than nothing, interferes with your baby's development of a healthy, strong immune system that fights back against germs.
  2. Lay your baby face-up on a flat surface (like a table or mattress).
  3. Pick her up by placing your dominant hand under her head, supporting her neck at all times.
  4. Place your other hand beneath your baby's bottom.
  5. Raise your baby to your chest. This allows the baby to hear mommy and daddy's heartbeat. Studies show that this tends to have a calming effect and promotes relaxation and deeper sleep. Sweet dreams!

TIP: The Snuggle Hold also works to soothe minor stomach discomfort. Encourage natural burping by patting your baby softly on her back.

CRADLE HOLD

Great for: everyday holding; can be easily taught to humans with zero child-rearing experience

Difficulty level: Easy

  1. Support the infant's head and neck using the crook of your arm, as shown
  2. Support her butt using your hand

TIP: Lean back when possible to avoid unnecessary strain on your back and shoulders.

BELLY HOLD

Great for: calming a loud fussy baby QUICKLY

Difficulty level: Intermediate

  1. Drop her chest and belly over your forearm
  2. Ensure her head is turned outward and securely resting near the crook of your arm

FACE-to-FACE HOLD

Great for: interacting with the infant

Difficulty level: Easy

All you have to do for this one is support her neck and head, as shown.

FOOTBALL HOLD

Great for: feeding the infant while standing or sitting

Difficulty level: Advanced

  1. Curl the baby's legs around your body so that her legs are extended behind you
  2. Support her head using your hand and arm, drawing the infant close to your waist/chest region

What happens when you need to cook meals, go shopping, and power walk from one end of the parking lot to the grocery store? Our Ergonomic Baby Carrier will help you comfortably carry your baby on your hip, freeing up both arms for momma's signature multitasking.

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