Why is the way you lift a newborn so important?
Newborns have weak muscles and cannot hold their head up on their own. The baby’s spine is still developing, which means every parental movement matters. Proper lifting:
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protects the delicate spine and neck,
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gives the baby a sense of security,
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strengthens the bond through closeness and a steady touch,
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makes daily activities like feeding and changing easier.
How to lift a newborn from the crib step by step
To make your baby feel safe, each movement should be slow and predictable. Here’s a proven method:
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Approach the crib calmly and lean toward the baby, making eye contact.
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Place one hand under the baby’s head and neck, and the other under the bottom or back.
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Lift the baby slowly, keeping the head and torso always supported.
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Hold the baby close to your body so they feel warmth and stability.
This way, the baby won’t be startled by the motion, and parents maintain better control.
What to avoid when lifting a baby
Certain mistakes can be dangerous for a newborn. Remember not to:
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lift the baby by the arms or under the armpits,
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make sudden or jerky movements,
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leave the head unsupported,
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carry the baby with one hand only.
Awareness of these risks makes everyday care safer and smoother.
Comfort and safety for parents
Lifting a newborn is also about ergonomics for parents. To avoid back pain, it’s best to:
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adjust the crib to a comfortable height,
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bend your knees instead of leaning from the waist,
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keep the baby close to your body to reduce strain on your arms.
This ensures safe handling for both the baby and the parents.
Summary
Knowing how to lift a newborn from the crib is one of the fundamentals of baby care. Proper head support, gentle movements, and parental closeness help the baby feel safe while making daily routines stress-free. These simple rules build the foundation for healthy development and strengthen the parent-child bond.
Learn more about safe baby care and get in touch via the contact form.