Sarah Kelleway

Only you should be kissing your baby. 💋 We can probably all agree that there is nothing more kissable than an infant. I mean… those chubby little cheeks almost demand it. But especially in the earliest weeks and months of life, it’s best to exercise caution when it comes to their exposure to kisses. Why? Kissing can expose babies to any of a number of viral threats, from the common cold, to RSV, Herpes Simplex 1 (cold sores) and more at a time during which they remain particularly susceptible to infection. Because their immune systems remain immature, germs we as adults might easily repel can become quite problematic for newborns. There are some who suggest that even parents avoid kissing newborns. I don’t know that this is an entirely realistic expectation - and worry that the guidance competes with attachment during a time that parents and children are establishing developmentally significant bonds. (What’s more, because they are already in SUCH close contact, children’s primary caregivers are likely to be exposing them to certain germs regardless.) But being judicious about the placement of even parental kisses - avoiding contact with the nose, mouth and hands - is a good idea. (This is especially critical if you believe you may be infected or having an outbreak yourself.) Primary caregivers aside, this we know for certain: What infants don’t need is an endless parade of relatives and friends smooching all over them. For the same reason it’s appropriate to ask people to wash their hands before holding your baby, it’s important that you advocate for your child in the same way here. It can be an awkward conversation to have with well intentioned family and friends - especially if you don’t set the ground rules up front. Rather than intervening after the kissing has already begun, it’s much easier to say, “we’ve been advised that it’s really important to avoid kissing right now to protect her little immune system.” Just add it in to the handwashing conversation. Everyone will understand - some may simply need a little education. After all, it is super tempting! This little guy, shared here just because he’s the cutest, was shared to IG by trisseltrassel.