Am I holding my newborn too much?

Jan 7·1 min read

Real talk - is there such a thing? My in-laws keep saying I need to "let her cry and self-soothe" but she's 6 weeks old. I feel like the whole "you can't spoil a newborn" thing is true but I'm paranoid I'm being overindulgent. When I hold her she settles immediately. When I put her down she cries. So like... I hold her. Is that wrong? My wife seems fine with it but her mom keeps making comments about how "clingy" the baby is getting.

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Comments(5)

PPedroRegularJan 7

My pediatrician told us there's no such thing as holding a newborn too much. It actually helps with bonding and development. Your instincts are probably right, and your in-laws are just repeating stuff from 40 years ago.

TTyler R.New DadJan 7

Honestly the in-laws have good intentions but this is one of those areas where you and your partner's judgment matters way more than their opinions. You're doing great.

JJay H.New DadJan 8

Hold her all you want, man. Before you know it she'll be 5 and not wanting hugs in public. These baby days go fast.

JJoe C.RegularJan 9

You cannot hold a newborn too much. That's outdated advice. Babies need closeness and contact, especially in those first months. Your in-laws mean well but the research backs you up here. Hold her as much as you want.

DDavid K.New DadJan 8

The self-soothing thing is for when they're older and can actually self-soothe. A newborn literally needs you. Ignore the in-laws on this one.

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