How to Give a Baby a Hug

Hugging your baby is a way of bonding.

Bonding between baby and parent is important for infant development and helps build a lifelong connection. Hugging your baby reduces stress in both of you, and it also comforts the baby -- which can lead to less crying and lower blood pressure. However, many people are unsure of how to hug babies without harming them. While babies are delicate, there are ways to embrace them that will support their heads and protect their small bodies.

Instructions

1. Pick up your baby so he or she is facing you. If your baby is an infant, support her head as you lift her up gently.

2. Place one of your baby's arms on either side of your neck. The baby will rest his head on either one of your shoulders.

3. Place one of your arms under your baby's bottom for support. Her legs will hang straight down against the front of your stomach or wrap around your waist.

4. Wrap your other arm around your baby's back and pat softly. Consider swaying with or rocking him to provide further comfort.

Tips & Warnings

• Some babies prefer not to hug or be held by anyone but their parents during certain periods of their development. Do not force them to give hugs -- they will grow out of this phase with time.

• Do not hug a baby as tightly as you would an adult.

References

• Healthy Living; Hug Your Baby More to Relieve Stress; Christine Stomes; July 30, 2010
• Family Education: Holding Your Baby