New-born babies still have an immune system that is easily attacked and it is necessary to protect them as much as possible from the transmission of viruses and bacteria.
How, then, to approach a newborn baby?
1 - Washing hands before touching them is a very important and indispensable hygiene rule, especially during the first few months, when babies are more vulnerable and attackable by external agents. Mothers know this, of course, but what about strangers? Friends? Relatives?
2 - Many mothers prefer not to touch their babies, but it often happens that strangers in the street stop for a caress, a squeeze of the cheeks or even a kiss. What to do in those moments to stop them in time?
Without any hesitation, politely but firmly the best thing to do is to ask politely not to touch our child if we have not washed our hands first. After all, the most important thing is that a mother does whatever she feels is right to protect her baby;
3 - Do not smoke in the vicinity of the baby. Smokers should not approach the baby within half an hour of the last cigarette and should also wash their hands thoroughly. Don't wear perfume either as it irritates the mother's sense of smell, but also the baby's;
4 - Do not let the baby be touched by other children if they are sick or have dirty hands;
5 - Do not kiss the baby on the face. Always remember that the baby has been in a protected environment for 9 months and still has to develop its immune system;
6 - Do not stress the new mother (and consequently the baby, who is very sensitive to mood changes, especially maternal ones) with unsolicited advice, even if you think it is right or for the baby's sake!
7 - Relatives and friends must not disturb a sleeping baby. A baby's sleep is sacred. Don't think and don't demand that the baby has to wake up for you to see its big eyes!
8 - Always give notice before turning up for a visit so that it does not overlap with that of other people. Mother and baby need peace and quiet and time of their own. Even if 'only' to sleep.