6 Newborn Care Myths Debunked

As a soon-to-be parent, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed with the amount of information out there about caring for your newborn baby. There is a massive amount of misinformation, lack of education, and fear-mongering when it comes to newborn care.

We believe that all parents should be empowered to make the best possible decisions for their pregnancy, labor and delivery, and parenting journeys. This starts with education as well as debunking some myths along the way. 

Take a look at these 5 newborn care myths and the actual truths behind them!

6 Newborn Care Myths Debunked 

1: “You’ll spoil the baby by holding them too much!”

Ever heard this one? Many people grow up believing this when it comes to newborn care and it’s simply not true! In fact, infants thrive on skin-to-skin contact, particularly in those first few months. Holding your newborn, connecting with them, and providing that contact is so important. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!

2: “They’re teething. That’s where the fever is coming from.”

It is incredibly common for people to believe that teething causes a fever. But, again, this is a myth! Teething happens anywhere between 6-24 months in a child’s life. This is also the time that they can be most susceptible to infections. While teething doesn’t cause fevers, they can easily run in tandem as a baby’s immune system is still being built. If your baby is running a fever, it’s not because they are teething.

3: “Babies sleep better on their bellies.”

Not only is this not true, but it’s also not a safe position for a baby to be left in to sleep. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against this, but many still believe this is perfectly safe and even better for the baby. If you have older people in your life – particularly grandparents who may be caring for your baby – be sure to help them understand this as it was an accepted practice for a long time.

4: “I got this baby walker to help him get walking faster!”

Baby walkers have been around for a long time and were created to help babies develop the ability to walk more quickly, however, not only do they not actually help a baby walk faster, they can actually hinder their growth, development and subsequent walking. Baby walkers hinder muscle development specifically and shouldn’t be used in order to help a baby walk faster. 

5: “I need to sanitize the baby’s cord stump so it won’t get infected!”

False! The area where the umbilical cord was cut and the stump that was left does not need to be cleaned with alcohol/antiseptic or anything like that. Gently washing the area during your normal bath routine is more than enough as you wait for it to fall off on its own. 

6: “We have to get her into a routine right away!”

Not only is this not true but it sets false expectations for newborn development. While they will eventually get into a routine, forcing that from the very beginning isn’t always the best course of action or necessary. Your baby will be going through many changes in their first few days/weeks of life. While you can certainly work into a routine, don’t rush or force it until you begin to understand their patterns better.  

How Newborn Care Education Classes Can Help 

If these newborn care myths have sparked your interest in learning more about newborn care, then newborn care education classes might be a great fit for you.

Whether you’re a brand new parent or a seasoned pro, newborn care education classes can benefit you in so many ways including helping you avoid the overwhelming amount of information and advice out there and discover what’s important to you. Hands-on learning with an expert in newborn care helps you and your partner take on the 4th trimester confidently.

Looking for Newborn Care Education Classes?

By taking newborn care education classes you will not only make your own life easier but will set your newborn up for success from the very beginning.

If you’re interested in learning more about the classes we offer here at CLEbaby, be sure to click HERE!