The birth of a child is the most beautiful experience a woman can live. Indeed, to welcome this little being who has been lodged inside for 9 months gives rise to an indescribable feeling. But becoming a parent is also a great responsibility, which is equivalent to making a number of daily efforts to ensure the well-being of the baby. From her experience in this area, Karen Johnson, mother, shared on the Scary Mommy parent site, the 10 rules she considers necessary when people come to visit babies.
Some mothers are constantly afraid to go wrong with their offspring. But a baby comes with its share of changes and learning to offer all members of the family a significant evolution. Indeed, we are not born mother, we become with experience. Thus, the maternal instinct is powerful and no one but a mother can know what her child needs.
Here are 10 rules that the entourage must follow when visiting a family that has a baby:
1- We avoid making too many kisses to the child
Sometimes it's hard to resist the sight of a little baby's face. Indeed, people tend to want to hug him, cuddle him and cover him with kisses. But be aware that a mouth is carrying viruses, which can be potentially dangerous for a newborn.
2- We wash and disinfect our hands regularly
At birth, a baby's immune system is not strong enough to protect against bacteria and viruses. Although breastfeeding allows the mother to transmit antibodies, it remains very fragile. To avoid exposing the newborn to risks, it is better to wash your hands regularly with an antibacterial soap before touching it.
3- The child is not given food or toys without parental approval
Nobody is better placed than the parents of the baby to know his needs. Indeed, one can imagine to please a child by offering a chocolate for example. But in reality, before the age of 3, the little one has very specific nutritional needs that only his parents and his doctor know.
4- Avoid mentioning the exploits of the baby that parents do not yet know
If you are used to babysitting while your mom is working, your gesture is generous. But if you have the chance to witness the baby's first words or first steps, avoid informing his parents. It is very frustrating for a parent to know that he has not been present at such important moments.
5- We try to help the mother without judging her
When you see that the mother is overwhelmed by daily tasks, avoid being passive in the situation. Ask him what you can do to help him. You can help him clean the house, play with the child or prepare the bottle. In addition, the mother might need to isolate herself in her room. Respect his will and return to visit him another day.
6- We do not approach the child if we smell the cigarette
We already know that tobacco is harmful for everyone. But the impact of this substance is even more harmful for a baby. In fact, an infant who inhales cigarette smoke can have serious breathing problems. Thus, active or even passive smokers, avoid approaching a baby if you smell tobacco.
7- The birth of the child is not mentioned until the parents do so
When we are part of the close entourage, we experience a real pleasure when we learn the birth of a new member of the tribe. Thus, we tend to want to shout on all roofs. But despite your good intentions, avoid spreading the news until the parents do it. This event only concerns them and you have no right to harm their privacy without their will.
8- We do not touch babies we do not know
You may be tempted to hug a baby you meet on the street. Better to avoid! If you do not know him, his parents might be uncomfortable with you, and that would be legitimate.
9- We do not comment on how the baby came into the world
Some people give their opinions on all subjects. But childbirth remains an intimate and singular moment, which nobody has the right to criticize. So, whether the mother performed a caesarean section or a vaginal delivery, that does not concern you.
10- We do not visit babies if we are not up to date on our vaccines or if we are sick
Since infants do not have antibodies strong enough to defend against bacteria and viruses, we absolutely avoid getting too close to a baby if we are sick or if we have not done all our vaccines.