The dentists have advised that parents refrain from kissing their children on the lips, particularly before their baby teeth have developed, as they could spread harmful bacteria to their young ones. Before the first tooth appears, a baby's mouth is usually free from cavity-causing bacteria.
Ideally, even grandparents “should not be kissing on the baby for at least the first few months,” Tan told me. Within a home, siblings attending day care and school—where it's easy to pick up germs—might also want to sheathe their smackeroos at first.
Discourage others from kissing your baby on the face
However, if a visitor or a family member has cold sores or a respiratory infection, politely ask them not to kiss the baby, especially on the lips or the face. Newborn babies have a weak immune system, which makes them easily prone to viral infections.
It all boils down to the transfer of germs. Kissing a baby can have serious health consequences for your little one whose immune system is still developing.
Dr Prasad says to prevent serious health consequences, everyone, including moms, should avoid kissing infants early on.
While raising babies, parents must remember that there is no such thing as too much affection, too much attention, or too much care. In fact, research proves that parenting is one aspect of adult life when doing things in excess is actually encouraged.
First, wash the kissed area immediately with soap and water. There's no guarantee this will prevent infection, but it doesn't hurt to clean the area of contact, just in case. Next, monitor the baby closely for unusual behavior or symptoms. Call your doctor for professional advice as well.
So ask politely, be firm and stick to your guns. Explain that your request for them to refrain from kissing their grandchild isn't one that will last forever, just until they are older and their immune system is stronger. Everyone who comes into contact with your baby should follow safe hygiene practices.
It depends. A peck on the lips is appropriate for all ages if the child is comfortable with it. I moved to the cheek and the top of the head when they became teenagers. It is their body and what is appropriate is determined by them.
Kiss someone when you feel ready, regardless of how old you are. Around ages 12-15, people often start having their first kiss. Don't feel pressured by other people your age kissing people, and don't rush into kissing someone if you are apprehensive. You'll know intuitively when the time feels right.
Like the child, stop your child on the lips if you no longer find it comfortable as the parent. It's normal to find it bizarre to lip-kiss your child after reaching a certain age. As long as kissing your child raises some questions within you or no longer feels authentic and natural, it may no longer be appropriate.
Showing Your Baby Physical Affection Teaches Them Empathy
This in turn can help them relate as well as interact better with those around them. Kissing your baby is not just about building that unique relationship between mom and baby. It's more than that. It helps the baby pursue a unique personality and demeanor.
Baby kissing is a practice in which politicians and candidates campaigning for office kiss babies in order to garner public support. It is commonly done along with shaking hands.
“Parents should show love and affection in front of their children. Simple things such as hugging, kissing and holding hands show that you care about that person. Saying"I love you” and"I miss you” is another way to show love and affection. Anything more than this is most likely deemed inappropriate.
Why you can't spoil a baby. Young babies need a lot of attention. You might worry – or other people might tell you – that if you give your baby too much attention, it will 'spoil' your baby. But babies are too young to sort out their own problems.
Babies do well when they're loved on, and even young babies show happiness when they're kissed and hugged.
In order to prevent serious health issues, anyone and everyone, including parents, should avoid kissing babies. Due to the rise in cases of RSV and other illnesses, it's extremely important for all individuals to be aware of the dangers of kissing babies.
If you develop a cold sore or have any signs of a herpes infection, take these precautions: do not kiss any babies. wash your hands before contact with a baby. wash your hands before breastfeeding.
You can simply say the words “Please don't touch my baby.” Yes, you can use a kind, firm, and clear voice, when you deliver the message. And if you're in the mood for more pleasantries, you can smile and say, “I know how tempting it is when they're so cute!” And then change the subject with the stranger.
Use Extra Precautions for the First Two Months
So, it's advisable to avoid letting most people touch your baby and to avoid crowds, says the pediatrician. "If you need to take your baby to crowded places, such as the grocery store, wearing your baby or using a lightweight stretchy stroller cover can be protective."
RSV is spread through contact with contaminated respiratory droplets. Kissing, sharing drinks, or transferring things from mouth to mouth can transmit RSV. Washing your hands, covering your coughs and sneezes, and avoiding contact when you are sick will decrease the spread and help protect our littlest family members.