 |
Holding the Baby |
When cradling a newborn it is important to make sure that the infant is positioned properly. Often parents assume that if the baby has difficulty breathing he will fuss or cry. The majority of infants will protest if they are struggling to breathe; however newborns, babies born prematurely or infants with low tone or developmental delays may not communicate their distress.
Providing good head and neck support when holding babies not only protects the brain, but makes them secure.
Swaddling or wrapping up recreates the secure feeling of being in the womb, helping to stay calm when starting to get fussy or when wanting to go to sleep.
 Holding suggestions
| 1. |
Not too tight: The baby should not be curled tight chin to chest because this position partially closes the baby's airway. With correct positioning there should always be at least one finger's width of space under baby's chin. The baby should not be rolled so that her or his face is pressed tightly against the parent's body. Position the baby's face upward when she or he is not actively nursing and when nursing ensure that baby's nose is not blocked. |
| 2. |
Mind the face: Sling fabric should not be draped across the baby's face. For slings made from thin, airy fabrics please check the airflow of the fabric by placing it over your own nose and mouth. |
Signs that you should reposition
An infant should be repositioned if she or he is having any sign of respiratory difficulty:
- Rapid or labored breathing
- Grunting or sighing with every breath
- Restlessness
bonding and soothing techniques
Bonding, probably one of the most pleasurable aspects of infant care, occurs during the sensitive time in the first hours and days after birth when parents make a deep connection with their infant. Physical closeness can promote an emotional connection.
Mothers naturally get bogged down with new responsibility and go through psychological stress. But let us understand that fathers can assist in this newly shouldered responsibility and strive to build relationships with their babies. Bathing the baby changing nappies, despite the sight and smell, cuddling your baby while s/he’s awake, and playing simple games with her/him – even if the baby is only a few days old, is a great way to develop a strong physical and emotional relationship with your child. For infants, the attachment contributes to their emotional growth, which also affects their development in other areas, such as physical growth. Another way to think of bonding is "falling in love" with your baby. Children thrive from having a parent or other adult in their life who loves them unconditionally.
Begin bonding by cradling your baby and gently stroking him or her in different patterns. Both you and your partner can also take the opportunity to be "skin-to-skin," holding your newborn against your own skin while feeding or cradling. Touch brings magic to the relationship.
Babies usually love vocal sounds, such as talking, babbling, singing, and cooing. Your baby will probably also love listening to music. Baby rattles and musical mobiles are other good ways to stimulate your infant's hearing. If your little one is being fussy, try singing, reciting poetry and nursery rhymes, or reading aloud as you sway or rock your baby gently in a chair. Never hesitate to talk your heart out, you will be surprised to realize there could be no better or more patient a listener.
|
