Newborn babies are often held in turns by their parents, grandparents, and other family members, leading many moms to wonder: Will holding my baby too much spoil them? How can we avoid creating a habit of always needing to be held? Today, we’ll address this question for new parents: Is your baby always wanting to be held a sign of being spoiled?
The amount of time a baby needs to be held actually varies depending on their age.
0-3 Months Old
Babies at this stage sleep a lot—around 18-20 hours a day—so there’s no need to hold them constantly unless it’s for specific tasks like diaper changes or feeding. More importantly, babies under 3 months have underdeveloped bones, and their spine and neck are very fragile. Frequent holding by parents can negatively impact their bone development.
When your baby is awake and not crying, you can place them on the bed to reduce the strain on their neck. However, it’s best to hold your baby when feeding or going out, as this provides them with a sense of security.
3-6 Months Old
Babies at this stage tend to sleep longer after feeding, so there’s still no need for extended holding. Placing your baby on the bed after feeding helps foster independent sleep habits. Ensure your baby has a safe sleeping environment to prevent accidents like rolling over. Hanging a mobile above the crib can also help keep your baby entertained and reduce fussiness.
6 Months and Older
At this stage, babies are more adaptable to their surroundings and begin to develop crawling skills. Avoid holding them for long periods and instead allow them some freedom to lie down or crawl in a safe environment. This doesn’t mean you should never hold them—moderation is key. For example, carrying your baby while taking a walk or enjoying the sun can boost their immunity, strengthen your bond, and enhance their sense of security.
For babies who can sit, parents can use a baby carrier with a waist belt. This allows for face-to-face interaction while giving the baby a chance to observe the world around them. This not only strengthens the parent-child bond but also broadens the baby’s perspective, which is crucial for their neurological development.
The above are tips for parents on how long to hold their baby each day to avoid spoiling them. Remember, your baby’s growth happens only once. Avoid overindulging or spoiling them, but also spend quality time nurturing their development, providing security and happiness, and promoting their natural growth.
