Do’s and Don’ts of who can kiss your Baby!

Hey there, fellow parents and baby enthusiasts! Today, let’s dive into a topic that’s both adorable and important: who gets to smooch those chubby cheeks of your little bundle of joy. As a mom who’s been through the trenches of baby-hood, I’m here to share the ultimate guide on the do’s and don’ts of who can kiss your baby. Buckle up, because we’re about to cover everything from the sweet kisses to the well-intentioned but sometimes not-so-safe ones.

The Sweet, Safe Kisses

Ah, those sweet baby kisses – they’re one of life’s greatest joys. But before we get into the “who,” let’s talk about the “how” when it comes to giving your baby a safe and loving smooch.

Do’s

• Parents and Grandparents: First and foremost, you and your parents are pretty much on the VIP list. These are the people who share that deep bond with your little one and can shower them with all the affection they want.
• Siblings: If you’ve got older siblings in the house, let them plant gentle kisses on their baby brother or sister. It’s a beautiful way to foster sibling bonding.
• Close Relatives: Aunts, uncles, and cousins who are in regular contact with your baby can give those adorable baby pecks. Make sure they’re not coming in with a cold, though!
• Close Friends: Your BFFs who are like family can share some love with your baby. Just ensure they’re in good health and following proper hygiene.

Don’ts

• Anyone Sick: If someone is under the weather, no matter how much they want to cuddle and kiss the baby, it’s a no-go. Babies have developing immune systems and are more susceptible to illnesses.
• Strangers: It’s a universal rule – no strangers should be smooching your baby. Even if they’re just admiring from afar, it’s always good to keep a safe distance.

The Well-Intentioned but Not-So-Safe Kisses

Now, let’s get into some situations that might sound harmless but can potentially be risky for your baby’s health.

Do’s

• Ask About Allergies: If someone’s eager to give your baby a kiss and has just eaten a peanut butter sandwich, ask them to wait. Always be cautious about potential allergens.
• Gently Remind: If someone’s about to plant a kiss on your baby’s face, and you notice they have a cold sore or a rash, it’s okay to politely ask them to hold off until it’s gone.

Don’ts

• Direct Mouth-to-Mouth Kisses: Yep, you read that right. Avoid letting anyone kiss your baby on the mouth. This includes those adorable but potentially risky “butterfly kisses” where lips touch the baby’s face directly.
• Kissing on Hands: Babies love to put their hands in their mouths. If someone’s been smooching your baby’s hands, there’s a chance those germs could end up in your baby’s mouth.
• Kisses on the Cheeks for Newborns: Newborns have delicate skin, and their immune systems are still building up. Avoid cheek kisses from anyone other than immediate family.

The Golden Rule: Your Comfort Zone Matters

Above all, remember that you’re the parent and your comfort zone matters most. If someone’s kisses make you uneasy, it’s okay to politely request that they hold off. It’s all about creating a safe and loving environment for your baby.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING BABY HEALTH

Last week, we heard about the shocking story of a mom in the U.K. who said her newborn baby could have died from simply getting a kiss from a hospital visitor following her birth.

In short, Claire Henderson’s daughter, Brooke, contracted the herpes simplex (HSV-1) virus after being kissed by a visitor who unknowingly had a cold sore. The result was an outbreak on little Brooke’s face, which prompted Claire to rush her to the hospital. “If she had been left, it could have easily spread and — worst case — been fatal,” Henderson said.

So, when is it safe for people to come into ‘lips to skin’ contact with your baby, and how can you stop unknowing visitors from sneaking in an innocent peck to your newborn child?

SO, WHAT ARE THE GUIDELINES?

There are mixed reactions among the communities out there. Many people say with all the germs in the world, a little kiss from a family member is the least of their concerns. Others say “there is no way I’d let anyone kiss my baby; who knows where those lips have been!” It’s your baby and your decision, but as we’ve seen above with Brooke, sometimes it’s better to err on the side of caution and cleanliness.

Experts say that, in reality, your baby will be able to cope with the majority of germs out there, and exposure to germs (within reason, of course) will boost and strengthen your baby’s immune system, setting them up for a more prepared future. However, passing a baby around a party for hugs and kisses in the middle of flu season is probably not the best idea.

In the first few days of birth, the only person that should be kissing your baby is mommy and daddy, and perhaps very close family members. Your baby’s immune system is low, and your baby is weak. Let her get some strength before exposing her to potential hazards. After a month, she should be far stronger and more able to handle kisses from immediate and extended family. Personally, kisses from friends, albeit close, is a no-go. However, in my research, I did find plenty of new parents shocked at how many non-family members were so ready to launch kisses on their bundle of joy! There is no simple answer to fending off unwanted kisses, other than telling them outright – “No baby kisses just yet, doctor’s orders!”

As a father of a little girl, I can say that I will be fending off anyone who tries to kiss my little girl, particularly when she’s a teenager and the boys come a knockin’! I’ll be sending them packing!

Stay tuned for more baby adventures, tips, and stories. Until next time, fellow baby whisperers!