American Politicians are noted for holding babies. It’s a tradition that’s said to have begun in 1828 with Andrew Jackson, according to The Atlantic. But just how many can teach you how to cradle a baby? The answer: Barack Obama can. A recent image of the 44th President doing such captures just how it’s done.
The cradle hold. This is perhaps the most common way to hold your baby and a great way to gaze into the new baby’s eyes; it’s also the most natural and easiest way to hold your baby. It’s easiest to hold your baby this way when the baby is swaddled. Here’s what you should do:
- To cradle hold your baby, first lay your baby down and pick it up by sliding one hand under the neck and head, and the other under the bottom and hips.
- Spread your fingers as much as you can as you lift her to your chest so you can support the baby as much as possible.
- Gently slide the hand supporting her head and neck along her back, so that her head and neck slide along your forearm, making their way into the crook of your arm and elbow.
- Keep your other hand where it was, cupping your baby’s hips and bottom.
- Bring the baby close to your body and gently rock her back and forth, if you like.
