Newborn babies are some of the most beautiful creatures on Earth. They are also extremely fragile. They are brand spanking new to this world, so their bodies, brains, and immune systems aren’t fully developed.
That’s why it’s really important to make sure we handle them with care. You’ll also want to make sure you’re respecting moms wishes.
After all, she’s just been through a whole lot and it can be a very emotional time. There are specific rules that we must follow to ensure that the baby will be safe when visitors are around and that the family is comfortable.
Here Are 9 Rules That Everyone Who Visits A Newborn Needs To Know:
1) Schedule Your Visit
Never show up to see a newborn unexpectedly. Every mom’s recovery period is different. So, it’s best to ask when they’re ready for visitors and schedule a time to meet the new cherub.
2) Keep Your Scheduled Appointment
If you say you’re going to be there to visit the baby at 3 p.m., be there at 3 p.m. Moms of newborns are sleep-deprived and exhausted and babies function on schedules. So, it’s important that you arrive on the agreed upon time so you don’t disrupt mom or baby’s schedule.
3) Don’t Overstay
Try to keep your visit short and sweet. This ensures that mom and baby can get the rest they need. An hour should do the trick.
4) Wash Your Hands, Be Healthy
It’s imperative that you wash or sanitize your hands immediately before you pick up the baby. Baby immune systems are fragile and can be easily compromised. Washing your hands ensures that you don’t pass on any germs to the baby. And never ever visit a newborn if you’re sick, are getting over being sick, or just aren’t feeling well. You don’t want to put the baby’s health at risk.
5) Know How To Properly Hold A Baby
First and foremost you need to ask if you can hold the baby. When you get the green light, make sure you get comfortable and take the baby while always supporting the head and neck. Make sure you don’t touch the fontanelle and give the baby back to mom if mom or the baby seem antsy or uncomfortable.
6) Give Mom A Break
Try to give mom a break when you’re there. Bring some food so she doesn’t have to cook or ask if you can take any chores off her plate like laundry. You can also offer to watch the baby while she takes a shower or a nap.
7) Just Say No
Do not make mom do any more work than she already is. People feel obligated to entertain guests when they visit, so your hosts will likely ask you if you want something to eat or drink. Always say “no” or get it yourself.
8) Don’t Bring Kids, Unless You Ask
It’s best to leave children at home when you visit a new baby. If the kids really want to visit or you have no babysitter, ask mom if it’s OK first. If mom says it’s OK, make sure that you kids aren’t sick at all and abide by all these rules. It’s likely that your child will want to hold the baby, just make sure mom is totally cool with it first.
9) Don’t Offer Unsolicited Advice
If mom has a question about motherhood, feel free to fill her in on what you know. Otherwise, keep your mouth shut. Critique is the last thing a new mom needs.
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