HOW SHOULD I HANDLE MY BABY?
Many first-time parents are unsure about how to hold their new baby. The techniques below will help to guide you, but holding and handling will soon come naturally.
PICKING YOUR BABY UP
• Place one hand under your baby’s head and neck and the other under her bottom.
• Lift her slowly, close to your body, continuing to support and cradle her with your hands.
• Turn her towards your chest and shoulders as you straighten your back.
HOLDING YOUR BABY
You can hold the baby in several positions—the best being the most comfortable and natural. Your baby will need to feel secure, whether cradled in the crook of your elbow, held upright against your chest, or even held face down in your arms.
ON YOUR SHOULDER
Put one hand under her bottom to take her weight and support her head with your other hand.
ON YOUR ARM, FACING YOU
Cradle your baby’s head in the crook of your elbow, and support her bottom with your other hand.
ON YOUR ARM, FACING DOWN
Lay your baby along your forearm with one hand under her and the other supporting her body.
