Ana-Maria Calin

Is your baby more inclined to nap on your chest than in their crib? Becoming a human sleep surface can sometimes make life challenging as a new mother - but to your baby there’s literally nothing that feels safer or more relaxing. Nothing that feels more like home. And, when you think about it, it all makes perfect sense. Your baby has spent 9 months gestating in union with the subtle movements of your body. The first and most comforting sounds they knew were (and are) your heartbeat and voice. Throw in the full-body sensory contact, your own warmth and rhythmic breathing and it’s little wonder that this is your baby’s favorite sleep position. Well meaning friends and relatives may guide you away from this practice, for fear of spoiling your baby and creating habits that can become hard to break. But I’m going to advise you otherwise, at least in part. As I’ve discussed elsewhere, it’s impossible to spoil a newborn with too much love and comfort. The earliest months of life are a critical window during which trust and attachment are established in ways that will benefit your child for life. So as long as you can do so safely, let your little one snuggle you as much as they’d like. But do recognize that you have needs as well. Even the best and most attentive parents can’t give their undivided attention 24/7. It’s okay to use your bassinet as needed… and there is definitely wisdom in acquainting your little one with sleep surfaces other than your chest sooner than later. Just remember that, like most things in parenting, it’s not an all or nothing proposition. You do you… but don’t be dissuaded for fear of spoiling your newborn. This drowsy little one was shared to IG by storyoferica, who has the right idea.