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7 Simple Ways to Enjoy Skin-to-Skin Contact With Your Baby Every Day

7 Simple Ways to Enjoy Skin-to-Skin Contact With Your Baby Every Day

You don't need a lot of research to know that holding your baby just feels right.

But there's science behind that feeling, too.

Skin-to-skin contact has been shown to support bonding, help regulate your baby's temperature, heart rate, and breathing, and encourage successful breastfeeding. It's especially beneficial for babies born prematurely, but all newborns can benefit from these close moments with their parents.

The good news? Skin-to-skin doesn't have to be limited to the first hours after birth. There are plenty of simple ways to make it part of your everyday routine.

father holding newborn

Here are our top ideas to make skin-to-skin part of your day:

Naked feeding

Ditch the shirt when you’re at home and feed your baby topless. Bottle feeds are the perfect way to get dads involved too - just make sure your baby is cozy and comfortable on either of your chests. 

Topless tummy time

Your pediatrician will encourage you to give your baby tummy time during his awake time, so get double the benefits by being shirtless next to your naked baby. Gently stroke his back as you tell him about all the wonderful things he can see around him. 

Looking for more tummy time ideas? Explore our guide to making tummy time enjoyable from day one.


Get in the tub

Once you get the okay from your pediatrician and gynecologist, you can enjoy bath time with your baby. Keep them in their bath seat or safely on your chest. Bath time is another great way for dad to enjoy skin-to-skin time, too. Always practise bath time safety. Here is a great resource to help you make bathing your baby a safe bonding experience.

Safety first: Always stay fully alert, never leave your baby unattended, and follow safe bathing practices throughout bath time.

Baby massage 

A good bedtime routine will set your baby up for a good night’s rest. Making a quick massage part of your nightly ritual will help your baby wind down and get ready for bed. 

Dim the lights and play some lullabies while you stroke his legs, arms, feet and hands with baby oil. Massaging his tummy with your fingertips in a circular, clockwise motion to help ease any cramps.

Baby wearing

Skin-to-skin doesn’t always have to be done in the nude. Babywearing is a great way to keep your baby close while you get things done around the house or run errands. Make sure your baby’s legs are in an “M” position to avoid hip dysplasia (read more about it here).

Close-up on baby's hand

Skin-to-skin is one of the first ways your baby learns about comfort, connection, and the world around them. As they grow, purposeful play becomes the next step in supporting their development.

Explore MonkiBox PlayBoxes, thoughtfully designed for your baby's age and stage, with expert-selected PlayTools that make meaningful play simple from day one.

 


Tags: 0-12 weeks Activity Behavior & Emotional Development Cognitive development Newborn Newborn Essentials Playtime skin-to-skin Social emotional week 1
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