Not Every Normal Baby Likes to Be Held

I’ll never forget the day my baby arched her back, turned her head and looked at me as if to say, “Um, mom, you’re bugging me. I’d like to be alone.”

Like most new parents, I’d imagined life with a normal baby was a little like those soap commercials. You know, I’d spend my days in one of those white filmy gowns while my chubby little cherub snuggled into my arms and gazed upon my face. In real life, my baby and I sometimes looked more like a pair of slightly dazed and scruffy wrestlers.

Although most babies love to be held, rocked and cuddled, some prefer to spend more time on their own. It’s just the way they’re made. If your baby needs less cuddling, it doesn’t mean that she doesn’t like slowing down enough to cuddle. Others may be extra-sensitive to the world around them and even the infant activity cuddling can be too much stimulation.

Basic Comfort: Baby Needs Some Snuggles

All babies want-and need-to be held and snuggled sometimes, though. If your baby has a high infant activity level, watch carefully to find a time when she’s slowed down and more ready to be held. Some babies are more cuddly the first thing in the morning or after a nap.

If you have a sensitive baby, try to help your baby calm down. Reduce the level of stimulation around her. Turn down the radio or TV, dim the lights and handle her gently. The rewards will be worth the extra effort.