Baby basics: How to hold a newborn baby
Learn how to safely support your newest family member.
Holding a baby for the first time is an unforgettable moment, but it’s natural to also feel nervous about how to do it safely and securely. Don’t worry though, after some practice, you will be doing it with confidence!
Follow these simple steps to learn how to safely hold your little one.
How to hold a newborn baby
1. Wash your hands
Your little one’s immune system is still developing, so it’s important to keep your hands clean before picking them up. You should also encourage any friends or family members to do the same. Keep soap and hand sanitizer readily available.
2. Keep your baby’s head, neck and bottom supported
Slide one hand under your baby’s head and neck (they won’t be able to support their head on their own until around 4 months) and the other under their bottom, making sure to bend your knees to support your back. Once you have a secure hold, bring your baby close to your chest and straighten your legs.
As you position your hand under your baby’s head, be mindful of their fontanelles – also called soft spots. They have two: One at the top of the head and one toward the back of the head.
3. Position your baby in a cradle hold
As long as your baby’s head and neck are supported, you can choose a variety of positions to hold them in. For the first few weeks of life, try the cradle hold.
- Position your baby horizontally at chest level and gently move their head into the crook of your elbow.
- While cradling their head, move your hand to support their bottom.
Making eye-contact, smiling and talking to your baby helps you bond and supports their development.
Frequently asked questions about holding a baby
How soon can you hold a newborn baby?
You should hold a baby immediately after birth to promote skin-to-skin bonding.
Can you hold a newborn baby too much?
Holding your baby helps them feel safe. “Holding them does not spoil them,” says Dr. Wanda Abreu, a general pediatrician. “It actually helps them feel loved and secure.”
> Watch: Mini Parenting Master Class on how to soothe your baby
What are the benefits of skin-to-skin contact?
Holding a baby skin-to-skin is wonderful way for all caregivers to bond with and soothe a baby. When your baby is small, keeping them in skin-to-skin contact as much as possible brings many benefits, including:
- Creating a sense of calm: The closeness with your baby causes your body to release oxytocin, which helps both of you to feel relaxed.
- Reducing stress: Hearing your heartbeat like they did in the womb helps your baby to feel safe and secure.
- Exposure to good bacteria: This will help to build your baby’s immune system.
What should you not do when holding a newborn baby?
Never hold your baby while cooking or carrying hot foods or liquids at the same time.
If you ever feel dizzy, angry or upset, ask someone else to hold your baby or place them in a safe space.
Never shake your baby; it can cause severe brain injuries.
