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You Can Never Cuddle a Baby Too Much
by Jamie Collins
Feb. 11, 2023
There’s something undeniably delightful about snuggling babies. The way they curl up into your arms, their cherubic faces glowing with innocence, and that irresistible baby scent—who wouldn’t want to cuddle? However, some well-meaning individuals (I see you, grandparents) might chime in with comments about how you’re holding your baby too much. Well, let me set the record straight: there’s absolutely no such thing as too much cuddling. The power of touch is crucial for a baby’s development, so the next time someone suggests you’re overdoing it, feel free to brush off their concerns.
The Science Behind Cuddling
The science backs this up. A study conducted in 2017 revealed that gentle touch, such as cuddling, has profound benefits for both premature and full-term infants. Dr. Lisa Morgan, a lead researcher at a pediatric facility in Chicago, stated, “Our research shows that increased exposure to nurturing touch positively influences how the brain interprets sensory information, which is vital for emotional and social growth.” Babies receiving gentle touch from their caregivers demonstrated a more favorable response than those who did not.
Interestingly, newborns rely heavily on touch and sound in their early months since their vision is still developing. Remember that first time your baby grasped your finger? That’s their way of connecting with you. Even in those initial days, they differentiate between their mom’s soft skin and dad’s rougher texture. Establishing that bond is essential for nurturing a positive family relationship.
The Importance of Touch for Premature Babies
Gentle touch and skin-to-skin contact are especially important for premature and low birth weight babies. A method known as Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) involves continuous skin contact and is one of the most effective ways to support a preemie’s growth. A long-term study published in Pediatrics highlighted that infants who experienced KMC had higher breastfeeding success, stronger emotional connections with their mothers, and better neurological outcomes as they grew. As they aged, these children exhibited fewer behavioral issues and showed increased cognitive abilities.
Personal Experience with Cuddling
For parents of high-needs babies, like my daughter Emily, constant cuddling was a necessity. It was the only way to calm her down during her frequent bouts of fussiness. Trust me, listening to an inconsolable baby can feel like an eternity. Holding her close provided the security she needed, and now that she’s a rambunctious four-year-old, those cuddle sessions have become rare. If I had ignored her need for closeness, it’s likely she would have developed anxiety—just as I would have.
Benefits for Mothers
Cuddling doesn’t just benefit babies; it also helps mothers. A 2015 study presented at the National Conference of the American Academy of Pediatrics found that skin-to-skin contact significantly reduces stress levels in new moms. Dr. Sarah Thompson, a pediatrician, noted, “Mothers reported a measurable decrease in their anxiety following cuddling with their infants.”
Debunking the Spoiling Myth
Now, let’s address the myth of “spoiling” a baby with too much holding. This was a common refrain from my own mother, who believed that too much attention would lead to an overly dependent child. Here’s the truth: you cannot spoil a baby. The idea is simply unfounded. Meri Wallace, a child and family therapist, stated in a Psychology Today article, “The primary developmental need of infants during their first year is to bond with their caregivers and feel secure in their care.”
Think about it logically: Babies emerge from a snug, safe environment after 40 weeks and are suddenly thrust into a bright, noisy world. It’s only natural for them to seek comfort from the person they’ve been attached to for so long. Expecting them to self-soothe immediately is unrealistic. Even adults find solace in hugs during tough times—why should we deny that to our infants?
Embrace the Snuggles
So, parents, keep on snuggling! Before you know it, those little ones will grow up and may not want to cuddle anymore. Enjoy these moments while they last. For more on parenting and the importance of touch, check out this insightful post on Modern Family Blog. If you’re considering home insemination, you can find useful information here. And for comprehensive insights on treating infertility, visit this excellent resource from ACOG: here.