Is it Possible to Spoil a Newborn?

Blankets, pacifiers, constant holding and cuddling - can these be responsible for creating a spoiled child? Having a new baby is a lot of work and a lot of fun, but are we spending too much time giving our infants everything and anything? An infant puts many demands on new parents, so should they give in to every whim?

The answer is a resounding YES! There is no way to spoil an infant; in fact there is often more concern of neglecting a newborn. The first couple weeks with your new baby are essential ones in helping to create a strong and loving bond. By holding your baby as mush as possible, you are allowing your baby to become familiar with your scent and also your face. Even though babies at birth can't see more than a foot or so in front of them, they are able to recognize specific parts of your face, and the more they see it, the happier they are! Spend lots of time holding your baby close, and if possible, hold your infant skin to skin.

Pacifiers are another item that can be cause for concern. There has been new research stating pacifier use while sleeping helps to prevent SIDS. Some parents chose not to give their child a pacifier, which is completely fine. If you do decide to use a pacifier, just remember at some point you may have to wrangle it away from your child. As long as you use a pacifier knowing it could cause problems later, use one as needed or wanted by your infant. Pacifiers give your baby a sense of calm due to the sucking action they encourage. By sucking, an infant is able to self soothe themselves when in distress.

Your baby may also become connected to a certain blanket or soft item and enjoy holding it or having it near them. This behavior may not develop until your baby is older, around 4 or 5 months old. Babies enjoy touching things and will many times put items in their mouths to taste and feel it with their tongues. When they find something they enjoy, it makes them feel good to be able to have it close to them. Blankets are another attachment item like a pacifier, so be wary of future usage problems. Understand you may have to find creative ways to get rid of the blanket if it becomes a problem later.

Every time your infant cries you find yourself running to pick it up and soothe it. You rock it gently in the rocking chair, sing a soft song, or walk around the house to help calm your precious baby. During the first couple months of life, this helps create a wonderful sense of security for your baby. Letting your infant know that it is loved and cared for when it is upset will create a happy healthy child. Once your baby gets a little older, around 6-8 months old, you can start encouraging your child to calm itself at times and cry some of their frustrations out. For now, enjoy comforting your baby and giving them lots of love!

Having an infant is a beautiful thing! You are part of this wonderful little baby and it's development. Don't worry about spending too much time giving lots and lots of love to your newborn. This is a special time with your infant! Before you know it, they will be walking and talking!