Holding a baby for the first time can be infuriating, especially if you're not very practical. There are several ways to hold a baby, and choosing one over another usually depends on the preferences of the baby and those of the caregiver. One of the simplest ways is to cradle - in this way you can support the baby and at the same time look him in the eye.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Learning the cradle grip
Step 1. Bend over to pick up the baby
Rather than lifting the baby while standing, it is easier and safer to lean towards him first and then lift him. This reduces the movement during which the baby is supported only by your hands.
- Leaning towards the baby also maximizes eye contact, as infants can only see up to about 30 centimeters away.
- Looking a baby in the eye is very important, especially if he is not calm, because it allows you to calm and comfort him.
Step 2. Support the baby's head as you lift it
When you pick up a child (especially a very small one) it is important to support the head and neck; infants in fact do not have the strength to do it alone. To use the cradle socket it is best if the baby is lying on his back.
- Put your dominant hand under the baby's neck, so that the thumb is on one side of his face and the remaining fingers on the other side.
- Don't squeeze too hard. The baby's neck and base of the head should be supported by the palm of the hand, with the fingers wide apart.
- Put your other hand under the baby's butt, but from the opposite side (as if you were hugging him). Always keep your fingers wide apart to better support the baby's weight.
Step 3. Keep the baby leaning against your body for a safer grip
When you have bent down and put your hands in place, lift the baby up and bring it towards your chest. Keeping it in contact with your body offers extra support, and makes it easier to switch to the cradle position.
Step 4. Slide your hands into the correct position
Slide your dominant hand (currently supporting the head) over the baby's back while supporting his head with your arm. Move the non-dominant hand to the other end of the baby to prevent it from falling.
- When the baby is in the cradle position, the head rests in the crook of the elbow, while your dominant hand supports the butt.
- The baby's legs must be supported by the other arm, while the non-dominant hand supports the trunk, to prevent the baby from falling.
Step 5. Keep the baby's head higher than the feet
In the cradle grip, his head must be held higher than his feet - this is the most comfortable position for both of you. Remember to keep the baby close to your body, but don't squeeze too tightly.
Step 6. Put the baby down gently
While holding a baby is a great experience, at some point you will feel the need to put it back in the crib. You basically have to do the opposite of what you did when you picked him up!
- Again, remember to bend over to reduce the distance to the cradle. Some even prefer to bend down until their arms make contact with the crib or bed.
- Pull your arms out from under the baby, remember to support the head until you can gently rest it on the bed.
Part 2 of 2: Using the Cradle Plug
Step 1. Hold the baby gently while sitting
It is normal to be afraid of dropping it. If you don't feel like holding it while standing, you can start doing it while sitting.
- Take a comfortable chair and sit down immediately after picking up the baby. A rocking chair or armchair are perfect.
- This will make you feel much safer, because if the baby starts to slide, you can rest your arms on your legs and put the baby back in the correct position.
Step 2. Hold the baby while standing upright
Once you have become familiar with the baby and are able to hold him while sitting without problems, you can try to stand up. You can also try walking afterwards. With a little practice it will become natural.
Step 3. Consider swaddling the baby
If you are dealing with a particularly agitated baby, you may want to swaddle him before picking him up.
- The swaddling helps to calm the baby down, and allows you to have more balance as you won't be able to shake much.
- For a step by step guide on how to swaddle a baby, see this article.
Step 4. Feed the baby using the cradle grip
Breastfeeding women often find the cradle to be the most comfortable position. You can also use this position for bottle feeding.
