Support the baby’s head and neck, especially if under 4 months of age. Place your arm under your baby’s neck and spine, lift gently toward your chest, and keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Do not lift your baby with one hand or by pulling their arms or legs.
Do not hand the baby to another person until you are sure they are holding them properly, and avoid touching the soft spot (fontanelle) until it is closed. Also avoid sudden movements that may injure the baby.
Here are the best safe positions for carrying the baby:
- Cradle hold: Place the baby on your arm, extend their body along your arm and keep their head close to your elbow. This position allows visual contact with your baby.
- Hip hold: Helps reduce colic symptoms. Place the baby’s body along your forearm, supporting their head on the inside of your elbow.
- Shoulder hold: Helps the baby burp. Place the baby on your shoulder, with their head supported and back gently pressed with your other hand.
- • Lap hold: (On thighs) Lay the baby’s back on your thighs with head supported on your hands. This is a good position for eye contact and provides the baby with reassurance and comfort.
- Football hold: Useful for breastfeeding. Place the baby’s body along your forearm with their head supported in your hand, facing the mother’s breast.