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Imagine this: you've spent months in a warm, fluid, secure space — the womb. Then suddenly, you're born. You leave behind that cozy, fused connection with your environment, entering a world that feels cold, bright, and unfamiliar.
That’s the transition every newborn faces. It's a drastic shift.

For a baby to feel "at home" in this new environment, one thing is essential: the mother’s physical and emotional presence. Through attuned responses, loving contact, and bonding, the mother becomes the baby's new holding environment — helping the baby feel safe, secure, and grounded in the world.

Why Skin-to-Skin Contact Matters for Development

Skin-to-skin contact isn't just comforting — it's vital. Numerous studies show that this simple act supports a baby’s neurological development, strengthens sensory and motor pathways, and fosters emotional connection. It’s a foundational experience that builds trust and regulation from day one.

Holding Your Baby: The Cradle Position

You can never hold your baby “too much.” Contrary to some old advice, physical closeness does not spoil your baby — it reassures them. Your touch says, “You’re safe. You’re loved. I’m here.”

Many parents I work with ask about the most supportive, developmentally appropriate ways to hold their newborn. My top recommendation? The cradle position.

Want to understand why and how it works?

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