As a new parent, it can be overwhelming when your baby only wants to be held all the time. You may wonder if this is normal, and what you can do to help them feel more comfortable. The truth is, it is completely normal for babies to want to be held, especially in the first few months of life. In this article, we will explore why your baby only wants to be held and what you can do to help them.
Why Your Baby Only Wants to be Held:
- Seeking Comfort: Babies are comforted by being held close to their parents. The warmth of your body, the sound of your heartbeat, and the smell of your skin can all help to soothe them. Being held is as close as they can get to the comfort they’re familiar with. Additionally, research shows that physical touch is calming.
- Seeking Security: Babies need to feel secure in their environment. Being held close to you gives them a sense of security and makes them feel safe. They have just spent 9 months in the womb, where they were constantly held and surrounded by your warmth and heartbeat. Being held helps them to feel safe and secure.
- Seeking Stimulation: Babies are curious about the world around them, but they can also be overwhelmed by all the new sights, sounds, and smells. Being held close to you can help them to feel safe and secure while they explore their surroundings.
- Seeking Attention: Babies need attention from their parents. Being held is a way for them to get your attention and to feel loved.
What You Can Do:
- Hold Them as Much as Possible: The more you hold your baby, the more secure they will feel. Holding your baby can also help to regulate their body temperature and breathing.
- Create a Calm and Soothing Environment: Dimming the lights, playing soft music, or using a white noise machine can help to create a calm and soothing environment for your baby.
- Swaddle Them: Swaddling can help to soothe babies and make them feel secure.
- Rock Them: Rocking can help to soothe babies and help them to fall asleep.
- Sing to Them: Singing to babies can help to soothe them and make them feel loved. You don’t have to be a great singer, your voice is what matters.
- Talk to Them: Talking to babies can help them to feel connected to you and to the world around them. You can talk to them about anything, from what you did that day, to what you’re cooking for dinner.
- Take Breaks: It is important to remember that it is okay to put your baby down sometimes. If you need a break, put your baby in a safe place where they can see you and hear you. You can also try wearing your baby in a carrier, which will allow you to hold them close while you do other things.
When to Seek Help:
If you are concerned about your baby’s need to be held, you should talk to your doctor. They can help you to determine if there is an underlying medical issue that is causing your baby to be so clingy. Additionally, if you are feeling overwhelmed or exhausted, don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or a professional.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, it is completely normal for babies to want to be held, and there are many reasons why they might only want to be held. Holding your baby as much as possible, creating a calm and soothing environment, and taking breaks when you need to, are all ways to help your baby feel more comfortable and secure. Remember to also take care of yourself, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it. Your baby’s need for comfort and security will gradually lessen as they grow and develop, and soon enough, they will be running around and exploring the world on their own.