Babies are very delicate and sensitive beings, and their health should be given utmost priority. One of the most commonly overlooked aspects of baby care is handling them appropriately.
Sometimes parents or caregivers unknowingly shake their babies in frustration or anger, which can lead to serious injuries or even death. It is very important to know the dos and don’ts of baby shaking to avoid any such unfortunate incidents.
: Dos
1. Support the Head
Babies under 4 months have weak neck and head muscles and need complete support while being carried. Hence, it is important to support their head and neck while holding and carrying them.
If their heads are not supported, it can cause damage to their spine or inner ear, leading to serious consequences.
2. Hold the Baby Gently
Babies should always be held gently because they are fragile beings. Holding them too tight or too hard may make them uncomfortable or cause injuries. Always cradle them gently, support their head, and make sure their back and neck are straight.
3. Rock the Baby Gently
Sometimes rocking the baby is the only way to soothe them. However, it should always be done gently. Rocking them too fast or too hard can cause damage to their brain, leading to serious complications such as shaken baby syndrome.
4. Use a Baby Carrier
Using a baby carrier takes the pressure off of carrying the baby in your arms constantly. It distributes the weight evenly and provides complete support, making it easier for the caregiver and safer for the baby.
However, always ensure the baby carrier is correctly fastened and secure.
5. Speak and Sing to the Baby
Babies enjoy hearing their caregiver’s voice and find it soothing. Talking and singing to them also helps their language development. Always speak in a gentle and calm tone as it helps to calm them down and regulate their breathing.
Related Article
The Ultimate Guide to Baby Shaking
: Don’ts
1. Never Shake the Baby
If the baby is crying continuously or being fussy, never shake them as a means to calm them down. Shaking them can cause severe brain damage, spinal cord damage, internal bleeding, and even death.
It can result in shaken baby syndrome, which can cause permanent brain damage or blindness in some cases.
2. Avoid Rough Play
While playing with the baby, always make sure you are gentle and careful. Avoid any rough play or throwing the baby in the air. If the baby is not held the right way, it can cause serious injuries, and sometimes even death.
3. Don’t Carry the Baby by their Limbs
Never carry the baby by their arms or legs because they are not strong enough to support the weight of their body and can cause injuries. Always support the entire body, ensuring the head and neck are supported.
4. Don’t Leave the Baby Unattended
Leaving the baby unattended even for a short time is very dangerous. Make sure that the baby is placed in a safe environment when you are not holding them.
Keep them in a crib, playpen, or on a safe surface, ensuring that they can’t fall or get harmed.
5. Don’t Let Anyone Who is Tired or Impaired to Hold the Baby
It is crucial to make sure that no one who is tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication holds the baby. Their reflexes will be compromised, and they may unintentionally harm the child.
Conclusion
It is important to understand the proper way to handle infants to ensure their safety. Always handle them gently, avoid rough play, and never shake them.
Using a carrier, talking to the baby, and supporting the head and neck are some dos that can help keep the baby safe. Don’t leave them unattended and never let anyone who is tired or impaired hold the baby. Following these guidelines can help ensure that the baby is safe, happy, and healthy.
