Yes, you should pick up your baby every time she cries. Professor Thorpe from QUT's Faculty of Education states this directly, emphasizing the importance of responding to a baby's cries.
Understanding Your Baby's Cries
Crying is a baby's primary way of communicating needs. It can signal hunger, discomfort, tiredness, or a need for comfort and connection. When you pick up your baby when they cry, you are not spoiling them; you are meeting their fundamental needs.
Why Responding is Crucial:
- Builds Trust: Responding consistently to your baby's cries helps them learn that you are a reliable caregiver who will meet their needs. This builds a secure attachment.
- Reduces Stress: Crying can be stressful for babies. Picking them up and offering comfort can calm them, reducing the build-up of stress hormones.
- Encourages Emotional Development: By consistently responding, you are showing your baby that their emotions are valid, which is crucial for healthy emotional development.
Practical Tips for Responding to Cries
While the answer is yes, it doesn't necessarily mean you have to immediately pick up your baby without trying other solutions. Here are some things to consider:
- First, assess the situation: Before picking up your baby, quickly check for basic needs like a soiled diaper or if they seem hungry.
- Try soothing techniques first: Sometimes a gentle rub, a soft shush, or a change of position might be enough to soothe your baby.
- Pick up if needed: If those don't work, pick up your baby and hold them. Sometimes, all they need is your presence and comfort.
- Don't worry about spoiling them: As stated by Professor Thorpe, responding to cries is not about spoiling but about fulfilling needs.
Supporting Information from Reference
"A lot of parents are unsure if they should pick up their baby when their baby cries," Professor Thorpe from QUT's Faculty of Education said. "The answer is: you should. 28-Oct-2006"
Conclusion
Always respond to your baby's cries by picking them up. You are creating a secure, safe, and nurturing environment where they feel heard and understood. Meeting their needs is fundamental for healthy development.
